VICTORIA Point Garden Club members were treated to bags of mulch, plants and birthday cake as part of the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Club secretary Glenda McAuslan said up to 100 guests enjoyed the party, which was held last Thursday, September 14, at Thornlands Dance Palais Hall.
Ms McAuslan, who joined about three decade ago, said the club allowed members to cultivate a love of plants and grow friendships through once-a-month meetings and excursions to home gardens and parks.
The 50th anniversary celebrations reflected the group’s founding values, with the event doubling as the club’s “friendship day”.
While most guests were from the Redlands, Ms McAuslan said about 40 were from other south-east Queensland and northern NSW garden clubs.
Lunch and guest speaker entertainment by gardening expert Noel Burdette was enjoyed, along with raffle prize giveaways, including mulch, plants and vouchers, to lucky diners.
In a speech delivered on the day, Ms McAuslan relayed the club’s history and her memories of those involved in group’s earlier years, which included former Redland Shire chairman and current club patron Merv Genrich.
“The club started in the backyard garden of Mrs Isa Bickly (and) reports were that she would plant extra azaleas for the members to admire,” Ms McAuslan said.
“Our friendship days have been memorable with themes such as best hats and costumes.
“The members intend to keep this club going on as we all enjoy friendship with the love of gardening.”
President Narelle McCarty, who has served in the position for the past five years, said she enjoyed listening to guest speakers’ advice about different plants.
Mrs McCarty said her own yard was styled into a cottage garden and included an orchard, which was tended to by her husband.
“I find gardening very therapeutic and relaxing and its a great pleasure,” she said.
To join the Victoria Point Garden Club, message Mrs McCarty via her Facebook page or phone 3820 9329.