This week is National Gardening Week offering an opportunity to celebrate the simple joys of gardening and to highlight the associated environmental, social and health benefits.
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Whether it be maintaining a few pots on a balcony, a suburban backyard or a large country expanse, the enjoyment, the improved mental and physical wellbeing and the satisfaction gardeners gain from ‘getting their hands dirty’ is universal.
Last year was the first time the event was held, being celebrated by garden clubs, retirement villages, schools and organisations right across the nation, hosting a variety of activities all centred on an appreciation of gardening.
The driving force behind the idea is passionate gardener and the Garden Clubs of Australia president, George Hoad, of Killabakh.
“I was thrilled at the number of events held and the diversity of activities chosen to celebrate Australia’s first National Gardening Week last year. Hopefully in its second year it will continue to bloom and mature into something truly wonderful.”
“I was first made aware of a National Gardening Week on a visit to England in April 2013. The week was celebrated throughout the country with colourful floral displays, show gardens and special events, all focused on the practice of gardening. The Royal Horticultural Society (UK) had launched the inaugural National Gardening Week in 2011 and it has grown into the country’s biggest celebration of gardening. I would like to see a similar celebration of gardening and gardeners here in Australia.”
The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc., established in 1950, is the nation’s premiere organisation for garden clubs and other like-minded groups and has more than 700 affiliates representing more than 45,000 members. “I see the establishment of a National Gardening Week as an extension of the Garden Clubs of Australia’s primary objective, to extend the culture of gardening into the wider community for the benefit of all citizens,” George said.
National Gardening Week is open to everybody - people of all ages, organisations, businesses, local communities, local councils, schools, etc - to participate in and celebrate gardening in any way they choose.