It is just a great patio beer drinking table with a great view:) I couldn't get a picture of the table and the view because I didn't have the room with just a camera phone but this is the view from the top of the patio with it:)

I have miles of decking at two houses. All timber when put in the Australian sun will suffer. When building our beach house we decided to go for Spotted Gum and let it grey. Why fight it? We applied Cutek, and will on a regular basis. At our main house we have lots of Merabu or Quilla. Will not grey the same, and leaches lots of red stain. Cheap, but would not use again. What ever you use, use a good quality oil that seeps deep into the wood not a traditional stain/or top finishing product.

We have just replaced a garden full of hedges with artificial turf. My husband and I installed in ourselves , the grass is easy it's getting it level and putting the right amount of 2mm cracker dust underneath. We have two dogs and three kids and we love it. It depends on the area and how much time you have to look after it. We have installed our own beautiful Sir Walter lawn as well so we are a bit experienced. I put a sprinkler on for a few minutes twice a week for a wash and it also drains fine in bad weather. Look for something mid range you don't need the most expensive ! Look for something with a nice pile height say 30- 35 mm. Ask for some off cuts leave them in the sun and also walk on them see what you like. Here is a pic of what we have done so far. We are having a black spa put in the limestone paving which I sealed and a waterfall down the end on the stone wall. Make sure you check out the smaller companies , as long as it has no lead in it it's worth a go. Wendy from Perth These photos were when we just finished so lawn looks a bit stripey till it settles. We all love it

While synthetic grass often gets a bad wrap, we have to say that when applied correctly, quality astro turf can be the perfect solution for your backyard. It is a good choice for those who want less maintenance than regular grass, with plenty of options to cater for pets and the style of your garden. A quality turf looks great year-round without the frustrating upkeep, making it a realistic alternative to a natural lawn. Coolaroo Fresh Cut Synthetic Turf If anyone is interested in learning more about quality synthetic turf check out our range: http://www.coolaroo.com/synthetic-grass