Rose festival a hit

The usual complaints of gardeners the world over that it was too cold, too dry, too wet, the sun didn’t shine when we needed it to were all factors that contributed to some regular exhibitors at the annual rose festival, organised by the ladies of St Mark’s Women’s Guild, not having blooms at their optimum. Nevertheless, there were still more than 80 entries, with some superb examples of the rose family on display.
Duanne Karle of Warwick Gardens Galore found the judging demanding but noted that he took into account the effect of the recent rain.
The day would still be considered a success with about 70 attendees at the afternoon trophy and prize presentation.
Southern Downs Regional Mayor Ron Bellingham and his wife Kath, Warwick Credit Union manager Ian Tate and his wife, Simone, together with St Mark’s Rector, Rev Rod Winteron and his wife Dianne all spoke of the enjoyment that the event gave to the community and congratulated the ladies of the Guild on the 49th rose festival.
Rose themes decorated the Parish Hall, with pictures of roses, songs and poems about roses, along with table decorations of roses. One lucky table of ladies even received a long stemmed rose each.
Toe tapping entertainment was provided by the Grumpies, a local group who proved they were anything but bad tempered and who added to the pleasure of the afternoon with many songs yes, also about roses.
The raffles, cent sale and general admission will add a much needed addition to the painting of the parish hall fund.
The ladies of the Guild are looking forward to next year and are already planning some special ways to celebrate the 50th rose festival.
They are grateful to parishioners, Southern Downs Regional Council, Warwick Credit Union and Just Because for their support.
Competition winners:
Section 1 Bowl of roses: 1. Joy O’Leary 2. Mabel Mott 3. Fay Ireland
Section 2 Vase or bowl of full blown roses: 1. Fay Ireland 2. Leon Bruggemann
Section 3 One rose of any colour: 1. Joy O’Leary 2. Narelle Goodwin
Section 3 Three red roses: 1. Narelle Goodwin 2. Joy O’Leary
Section 3 Three pink roses 1. Joy O’Leary 2. Fay Ireland
Section 3 Three yellow roses: 1. Joy O’Leary No second prize awarded
Section 3 Three other one colour: 1. Betty Chalk 2. Fay Ireland
Section 3 Four mixed roses: 1. Winsome Anderson 2. Joy O’Leary
Section 4 Novice one rose of any colour: 1. Graham Hoey 2. Graham Hoey
Section 5 Vase three stems Floribunda: 1. Narelle Goodwin 2. Fay Ireland
Champion Rose: Graham Hoey