AFTER closing for what they thought would be for the final time last year, Judy and Ian Wintle have decided to reopen their garden to the public.
While the open day will not be as big as those in previous years, it will still feature the couple’s one-acre garden, as well as a plant sale.
“After 15 years of big open gardens, Judy and I decided enough was enough, and we would have to find a simpler way,” Mr Wintle said.
“The workload involved in a big open garden was starting to take its strain on us, as we are not getting any younger.”
A five dollar entry fee will be charged on the day, and all proceeds will go towards disabled sport.
“We thought this year it would be a good idea to help our son who is a paraplegic compete in his last Disabled World Water Ski Championships which are going to be held in Norway in 2019,” Mr Wintle said.
“Sponsorship for the event is poor so every dollar we can raise will assist Scott retain his world title.”
The couple has raised around $60,000 for charity in the past, receiving a Local Hero award last year.
Mr Wintle said they had been busy in their garden for months preparing for the event.
“Our one acre garden is looking great after the recent rain and November is probably the best month for garden colour, bizarre and interesting plants displayed,” he said.
“The highlights would have to be the massed plantings of caladiums and the interesting collection of corpse plants.”
While Mr and Mrs Wintle intended 2017 to be the last of their garden open days, Mr Wintle said it was a pleasure to host the event again.
“A great many people expressed disappointment when they heard we would not open again, so while we are fit enough we will open and let people see our wonderful garden and the rare and unusual plants,” he said.
“We are happy to do it again, and not having to prepare for the catering has made to preparation much easier.
“Judy just cannot stop propagating new plants, it’s what she loves to do.”
The open garden will be on Saturday, November 17 and Sunday, November 18 from 8.30am to 4.30pm at 5 Carlton Court, Birkdale.
Entry and plant sales are by cash only.
