MOREE’S botanic gardens clearly didn’t get the memo that spring is well and truly over, as the beautiful gardens will be in full bloom next Saturday when droves of gardening enthusiasts show up for the “Gardens of Australia” picnic.
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The north west region picnic will not only celebrate the 20th birthday of the Moree Plains Garden Club but the 10th anniversary of the Botanic Garden Club.
“Each year, a club member hosts a picnic in their garden. This time, because it’s such a momentous occasion, the club thought it would be a good idea to hold a bigger picnic open to everyone,” Moree Garden Club secretary Libby Smith said.
Libby hopes to draw 100 people to the joint celebration, with Garden Club members from places such as Tamworth, Wee Waa and Gunnedah, already reserving a spot.
Morning tea will be provided on the day, but picnic goers are advised to bring their own fold out chairs, lunch and non-alcoholic drinks.
“This is a strictly non-alcohol event. We are not allowed to take alcohol into the gardens,” Libby said.
Garden Club of Australia president George Hoade will make his way from Sydney to kick off the event.
Native plant expert Sarah Caldwell will provide a talk, bringing rare and unusual plants with her.
“She didn’t say what plants she’s bringing to Moree, only that they’re rare,” Libby said.
Moree Garden Club members will also set up a stall to put plants on sale.
B&W Rural manager Peter Birch has offered to take guests to the top of the old flour mill for a panoramic view of Moree.
“There will be steps leading to top of the structure for the fit and young, and a lift available for everybody else,” Libby said.
For those who prefer to remain on ground level, two gardens will be open to the public.
The only downside about gardening in Moree is the hot, dry summer days and the frost in winter. The shift in temperatures makes it difficult to grow some plants.
- Libby Smith
“One belongs to Angus and Leonie Livingston and the other one to Kylie and Simon Upton,” Libby said.
The Moree Garden Club secretary also said the day would be a good opportunity for the club to take on new members.
“Each month, club members visit new gardens. You don’t have to have a garden of your own to join, and you don’t have to invite people around to your garden either,” Libby said.
At the very least, Libby hopes to show picnic goers the beautiful gardens that Moree is hiding.
“The only downside about gardening in Moree is the hot, dry summer days and the frost in winter. The shift in temperatures makes it difficult to grow some plants.”
Extreme weather aside, Libby said Moree was the optimum place to raise a garden.
“Moree has rich soil to grow many plants. You only have to choose the right ones.”
The picnic will begin at 10am at the Botanic Gardens on Saturday April 14. Picnic goers are told to meet at the garden on the corner of Heber and Moreton streets.
“We will meet behind the RSL club. When you drive into the car park, you should be able to see us,” Libby said.