The 21-year-old horticulturist from Wingham Nursery and Florist worked long hours seven days a week for 19 straight days helping Charlie and his crew, putting her hand up for everything that didn't require muscle.

She earned herself the nickname 'sparrow', for her tiny build and the way she zoomed around the worksite.

Caitlin said that initially she wasn't sure of how she would be treated, being the one girl amongst all the guys, but her uncertainty was quickly dispelled.

The team ended up after work each day at 'The Rose and Crown' for after-work beers and one legendary night they drank the pub dry.

"It was absolutely the best thing I've done in my life," said Caitlin. "I've worked with the best bunch of people and I've made lifetime friends."

Caitlin is currently in the UK on a BBM Sir John Pagan Horticulture scholarship and is making quite a name for herself with industry professionals not just in Australia but overseas.

She had an emotional reunion with Better Homes and Gardens' Graham Ross, who she met in Sydney at the award of her scholarship.

Mum Tanya says that Graham has been a huge support for Caitlin. His first words on seeing her at Chelsea were "thank you, Caitlin, for not letting me down. I am so proud of you!"

Charlie Albone has offered Caitlin a glowing reference should she ever need it, but chances are she won't. Within the first week Mick Conway of Conway Landscaping was so impressed with Caitlin he offered her a job in the Southern Highlands working for him. Tanya says Caitlin is "considering it - maybe."

Caitlin has also become 'best mates' with Rob and Rosy Hardy after completing a week's work experience with them.

The Hardy's introduced her to John Hillier from the famous Hillier's Arboretum in Hampshire, who in turn has opened doors for her to the Kew Gardens, Hampton Court and a very big nursery called Warburtons.

"Everyone's taken me on with open arms and the enthusiasm for a 21-year-old kid from Australia has been amazing," said Caitlin.

Passion is something Caitlin has in buckets, and the passion horticulturalists have for their industry in the UK is something she wishes she could bottle up and bring home.

"They embrace horticulture over here," she said from her room in the UK. "But at home, horticulture is seen as something you go in to if you're not good enough at school."

Caitlin is making valuable contacts and earning a wealth of experience in the UK , all of which she will bringing back with her when she flies home on July 7.

Charlie's Chelsea Experience will air on Foxtel The Lifestyle Channel later in the year.

You can view more photos from Caitlin's experience in an online gallery at our site www.winghamchronicle.com.au