Flourishing Flower Show

By Tina Seirlis

Visitors and locals were out in force at the Bacchus Marsh Flower & Garden Show on 28 and 29 October. The Show which in its ninth year once again took place at what could only be described as a bustling Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.

In addition to showcasing the region’s best plants and flowers, other Show highlights included decorated cakes, preserves, photography, children’s categories, and the annual plant sale.

Many young visitors enjoyed face painting, balloon blowing, and the children’s activity table.

The not-for-profit event comes under the umbrella of the Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh and is supported by an active 15-strong volunteer committee, some of whom are also Rotarians.

Across the event weekend the volunteer force multiplied four-fold, with up to 60 people involved in everything from accepting entries, setting up tables, selling plants, running stalls, and hosting visitors.

Kathy Cairns, Chair of the Bacchus Marsh Flower & Garden Show said entries were up 33 percent on last year.

“The event also saw an increase in attendee,” she said.

“Quality and numbers in the Junior Section was up on last year too. Cake entries were up and the judge commented favourably on the standard. The Joce Williams Best in Show Award went to a stunning single stem Bird of Paradise,” Ms Cairns told the Moorabool News.

Young four-year-old Grace, from Balliang, took out second place in the children’s category for a Decorated Saucer – Any Theme. Reflecting on what it meant to submit an entry, she said she “liked putting the rose in it and it was exciting.”

Sisters Kerri Sommerfield and Helen Davies both entered the Cakes – Single Tiered category, taking out first and second place respectively.

Ms Davies said they entered again because they had so much fun last year.

“Whoever loses has to buy the other a coffee.”

Whilst the final fundraising figures were not yet available, the event had made a profit.

“Some of the money will be set aside as seeding for next year’s Show,” Ms Cairns said.

“The Flower & Garden Show Committee will also work with the Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh to decide on disbursement of the monies.

“The event brings people with common interests together. We put a big effort into the local primary schools trying to get the younger generation interested in gardens and displaying their creativity.”

As the doors closed for 2023, preparations almost immediately commenced for 2024.