“I tell some people that to get those nice crisp lines I use a broom to sweep the lawn in each direction,” laughed owner and renowned international photographer Scott Gilbank yesterday.

“Some of the gullible ones buy that line, but in reality I use a roller mower which is the same thing used on bowling greens or a golf course. It’s a visual thing, everything’s about visual presentation, that’s what a photographer is about and that’s where I get it from.”

Several hundred people took advantage of a rare opportunity over the weekend to stickybeak through the green oasis-like grounds of the historic homestead.

The open garden was a popular event in the Orange Blossoms Garden Festival, attracting around 90 visitors on Saturday and well over 200 yesterday.

“Without sounding arrogant or up myself the place looks good from the front but it’s satisfying to have people see the oasis down the back. It’s my own little Cook Park,” Mr Gilbank said.

“Standing here you wouldn’t think you’re basically in the CBD.”

An 18 metre well and 54 metre bore provide enough water to avoid harsh restrictions and keep the grounds thriving all year round.

“The well is original but the bore is fairly new and when I had the water tested the results came back that I could basically bottle it and sell it it’s that good,” Mr Gilbank said.

Time spent tending to the garden rises from the usual one hour a week mowing the lawns to two solid days of hard work ahead of an open day or tour group arrival.

“I have to put in the time because for me it’s P for perfect and if it isn’t, then it doesn’t happen at all,” Mr Gilbank said.

The Orange Blossoms Garden Festival runs throughout October and November.