In England, a Wendy House is a small playhouse for children, often found in gardens and inspired by J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan. These miniature sanctuaries, made from wood, plastic, or other materials, offer children a place to dream and imagine. The author Wendy had a Wendy House in her kindergarten classroom. For her, it was more than a playhouse—it was a refuge from bullying and abuse, a safe space where her imagination could flourish.
Years later, she found another sanctuary in Wendy’s Secret Garden, a lush, tiered haven nestled in Lavender Bay, Sydney. Created by artist Wendy Whiteley, the garden features sculptures, winding paths, and views of the Harbour Bridge. It became the author’s own private wonderland—a quiet, magical place where she felt safe and free.
A safe place is more than a physical space. It’s an emotional and psychological environment where people are free from discrimination, criticism, harassment, and harm. These sanctuaries—both real and symbolic—have shaped Wendy’s life and inspired her lifelong commitment to helping others find their own paths to healing.
Wendy’s professional journey began at the Cerebral Palsy League, where she ran an art studio for people with disabilities. The artists she supported had the opportunity to exhibit and sell their work at The Studio Gallery at Manly Wharf. Later, she taught pottery and horticulture at Ryde TAFE, again working with people with disabilities. Motivated by the transformative potential of art and nature, Wendy pursued a postgraduate degree in Expressive Therapies, using her studies not only to support others but to heal herself.
Wendy married Albie, and together they raised three children, including premature identical twin girls. While parenting, she remained deeply involved in community life—launching gardening and art projects at local playgroups and schools. She wrote grants, built school gardens, and created opportunities for children to engage with nature. As her children grew older, she pursued further qualifications in Horticulture, Permaculture, Disability, Training and Assessment, and ultimately earned a degree in Social Welfare.
Wendy’s career evolved into roles as an art and horticulture therapist as a NDIS provider, she also worked for an Non-Government Organisation where she developed school-based programs to support vulnerable families. She is currently the President of a Community Garden, continuing her mission to create inclusive, nurturing spaces.
Now, with her children grown and a lifetime of experience behind her, Wendy has turned to writing. This book is her way of sharing the knowledge and passion that have guided her journey—inviting others to discover the healing power of horticultural therapy.
Wendy has authored a comprehensive guide to Therapeutic Horticulture, weaving together theory, practice frameworks, and practical garden-based activities. She is also developing a children’s book series that explores healing and resilience through gentle stories set in the garden.
