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Gillooly’s Farm Begins a New Chapter as Gillooly’s Gardens

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Gather at Gillooly's Gardens

For more than 80 years, Gillooly’s Farm has offered Bedfordview residents room to breathe. Now, the much-loved green space is being restored and reimagined as Gillooly’s Gardens.

The long-term project aims to make the park safer, better maintained and more welcoming. However, its familiar character will remain firmly intact. The lake, lawns, walking trails, birdlife and picnic spaces will continue to shape the experience.

Instead of turning the property into another commercial precinct, the team plans to develop a lifestyle ecosystem built around nature, food, recreation and culture.

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A New Place for Joburg to Gather

At the centre of the renewed destination will be Gather, a family restaurant curated by husband-and-wife duo Coco & J.

J’Something is best known as the lead vocalist of award-winning group Mi Casa. Yet, he has also built a strong following as a chef, television personality and restaurateur. Alongside him, Coco brings her experience as a content creator and entrepreneur.

Together, they will help shape the food, hospitality and personality of Gather. In addition, the couple will play a central role in the Good Stuff Market.

“We want to create a space that brings people together,” Coco & J explained. “A space that celebrates good food, good people, community and connection. A space that feels like home.”

Read our cover feature interview with J’Something, here.

Coco & J'Something
Coco & J'Something

Markets, Family Activities and Live Entertainment

Gillooly’s Gardens will combine its natural attractions with family-friendly activities, community events and the Good Stuff Market.

Meanwhile, the existing amphitheatre will introduce another layer to the experience. A programme of live music and performances is being planned for later this year. Artists, dates and ticketing details will be announced separately.

The team behind the project has more than 25 years of experience across hospitality and live entertainment. Its portfolio includes Artistry, Katy’s Palace, Sir James Van Der Merwe Bar, The Ivy, Obscura and The Ostrich in Cape Town.

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Protecting a Bedfordview Landmark

The 44-hectare property was originally owned by James Gillooly. It was sold to the city council in 1944 and subsequently named in his honour.

Importantly, its next chapter is not intended to erase that history. Instead, the restoration will position Gillooly’s Gardens as a botanical garden and community destination. Environmental care, public benefit and long-term stewardship will guide its development.

More details about the restoration, Gather, the Good Stuff Market and upcoming events will be released as the project progresses.

Good Stuff Market at Gillooly's Gardens
Good Stuff Market at Gillooly's Gardens

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Gillooly’s has always offered Joburgers a welcome patch of green between the highways and high-rises. If this new chapter delivers on its promise, Bedfordview could soon have its favourite gathering place back—with better food, stronger security and plenty of reasons to linger.

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