Rosi’s love of all things magical, tropical and colonial was embedded in her DNA long before Jaspers Berry existed. Born and raised in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, she was always destined to weave her heritage into something extraordinary.
A Childhood in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea
Her parents moved to Rabaul in the early 1950s, nurturing a love for the beautiful and the grand that planted the seeds of creativity in their daughter. Rosi’s world of imagination grew rich in those formative years. Swimming on coral reefs and exploring coral atolls with Uncle Graham, Sunday Travelodge lunches with her Dad after Church in Queen Emma’s Dining Room (devouring the classic 1960s hamburger with the lot!), beach picnics with family and friends, and lei-making for the yearly Frangipani Festival.
There was no television in those days, so hours were spent instead with Enid Blyton novels and it was ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’ in particular that opened Rosi’s mind to all that is magical and creative. That story would follow her for the rest of her life.
Bringing Rabaul to Berry, NSW
Jaspers Berry reflects those childhood memories still. Steeped in the Chinoiserie interiors of old plantation homes, old silver, fine bone china, and all that encompasses generous, understated, elegant hospitality. It’s here, in the lush tropical garden, the Colonial Verandah & Bar, and the Guest House Lobby, that the spirit of Rabaul and grand old plantation homes comes alive, echoing the beauty and charm of Rosi’s heritage.
The Colonial Verandah was once the verandah to the Old School House, built in 1897, where children arrived by horse and cart.
The Magic Faraway Tree
From the first day Rosi visited Jaspers Berry, she called the 200-year-old school conifer ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’…those who know, know. It stands today much as it did then, inviting couples to make a wish beneath its branches on their Wedding Day.
Rosi’s playful, imaginative inclinations have influenced every corner of this luxury Wedding Venue on the NSW South Coast. From the grand verandahs to the Alice in Wonderland Gardens and Chinoiserie interiors, every detail at Jaspers Berry tells a story.
Rosi & Sue Today
Rosi’s legacy and memories of her childhood in Papua New Guinea are woven into the very fabric of Jaspers Berry. Together with Sue, she has poured her heart and soul into this iconic Berry Wedding Venue, turning it into a place where magic happens at every Wedding.
We invite you to experience the beauty of Jaspers Berry for yourself.
There’s a surprise around every corner, a testament to the soul, love and nostalgia that define this magical place.
To all who have shared their vows within these enchanting grounds…thank you. Your Love Stories have become part of Jaspers Berry’s legacy, adding to the tapestry of dreams and memories that make this so much more than just a Wedding Venue.