The Illawarra Rose Society put on a fragrant and colourful weekend at the Festival of Roses at Jamberoo School of Arts Halls on 28 and 29 October. Garden enthusiasts and society members were invited to showcase their roses for judging. This presented a perfect opportunity for both novice and seasoned gardeners to share and learn from each other's experiences.

Kristin Dawson from the Illawarra Rose Society says that the Illawarra speciality is ‘Roses in a Seashell’ or ‘Roses in a Teacup’. This year, the Society did something different by inviting the public from the Illawarra and Shoalhaven who grow roses in their gardens to participate. All avid rose gardeners could bring along some roses from their garden and the Society noted on the display the suburb they are grown in. These weren't judged though – rather the exhibitors who register.

Kristin said, “There are many beautiful roses grown in so many gardens across these regions, and it is wonderful to share them beyond the private garden,” adding “There were also opportunities for children to exhibit.” There were two sections, for children under 8 and under 12 to decorate a hat and/or a basket with roses, as well as a floral art display named ‘Out of the Kitchen.’

Notable winner was Helen Henry who impressed judges with her floral design of stunning yellow and pink roses. Congratulations Helen!

Helen Henry's winning floral design

The Junior prize winner was Ava Herandez who won the Junior ‘Out of the Kitchen Cupboard’ award for her charming rose display. Congratulations Ava!

Ava Herandez won Junior 'Out of the Kitchen Cupboard' prize

The many visitors to the festival admired the stunning display of roses and were able to engage with experienced rose growers for valuable tips and advice to enhance their own rose garden.