Earlier in the spring there was some concern as the drought continued, and the area was hit with strong winds and a major fire which continued for some weeks.  Fortunately, enough rain had fallen at the right time to assist local gardeners and help subdue the flames in the nearby mountains.

This year the show was opened by the Bega Garden Club president, Mark Barsdell, who complimented the local members on the high quality of exhibits.  One of the judges who has officiated in previous years  commented that he found it particularly difficult to select some of the category winners as there were so many outstanding entries.

The 'Most Successful Exhibitor in Floral Art’ award went to Diane Armstrong. 

Visitors Jaci and Kevin Murphy won a number of categories including the ‘Champion Rose’ (2nd year running), ‘Most Successful Exhibitor - Roses’, ‘Champion Floral Arrangement’, and ‘Most Successful Exhibitor Overall’ Shield. 

Local Di Crooks picked up awards for ‘Most Successful Exhibitor in Cut Flowers’, ‘Champion Cut Flower’, and 'Most Successful Exhibitor in Produce' (2nd year running). 

Jeff Knox took out the 'Most Successful Exhibitor in Pot Plants’ award.

Gail Buckingham was very pleased to win the wheelbarrow full of garden goodies raffle.  By an amazing coincidence, one of her two friends attending the show with her - Ann Knight - won the locally-made quilt raffled the previous year.

The club will hold its Christmas barbecue on December 3 at Colombo Park, 6pm – or at Bemboka Memorial Hall if the weather is bad.  If it rains (which it has done for the last three years) it is doubtful whether there will be many complaints!