Garden Orange Blossom Festival Blooms

By BEV JORDAN

While most of the much-loved Orange Blossom Festival has been cancelled due to COVID restrictions, one signature event that is very much blooming is the annual Sydney Hills Garden Competition.

This year’s event, which started in 1959 as the forerunner of the Orange Blossom Festival, is ready for action with entries closing on September 17th. Organiser Keith Stapley from the Rotary Club of Hills-Kellyville Rotary Club said there are 45 entries so far.

“It’s been a challenge for us (organising the event) but we are so excited that we have been able to make it all happen.” Orange Blossom Festival

He got confirmation this week from Service NSW that judging would be able to go ahead. Judging will start on September 20th. Orange Blossom Festival

With more people gardening through Lockdown than ever before Keith is hoping that more people will think about entering the iconic competition which is free to enter.

“Just get out there, pull out the last of the weeds and send in your entry form.” Gardens are judged by professional and experienced horticulturists and landscapers. In the past judges

Gardening expert Ross Miller said: “We’ve never seen so many beautiful gardens around this year. So many people are home making the very best of their surroundings and especially enjoying their gardens. More than ever, this is a time to celebrate the fine gardens of the Hills District this spring.