Issue 39, 2019 Events
Plant lovers’ field day
By Taylor Clyne
October 09, 2019
More than 1500 plant lovers joined together on Saturday for St Pauls annual Plantfest event under the beautiful oak tree at Springfield, breaking records on previous years.
Special guest Jane Edmanson OAM, best known for being the presenter of ABC program Gardening Australia officially opened the day and was no doubt a draw card for local gardening lovers.
“I am delighted to be here, what a beautiful church and cemetery – I look forward to speaking with you all,” she said.
Edmanson presented three talks on various topics and mingled freely with patrons answering questions about gardening issues as well as her work as a journalist and author.
“She was a very approachable lady and so generous with her time, we were honoured to have her,” Friends of St Pauls Communications Officer Merrilyn Lette said.
Aside from the huge selection of trade stalls, mouth-watering scones jam and cream, plants, trees and more plants the inaugural orchid auction was extremely popular raising $1033.
“The orchid auction went off thanks to the great work of auctioneer Cabel Hall. Some people got bargains and some paid large amounts for particular treasures – but everybody was smiling,” Mrs Lette said.
Other special moments from the event included a sit-down interview between Friends of St Pauls president Robert Smith and well-known local identity Peggy Kendall.
Mrs Kendall spoke of her life as a successful ex hotelier and orchid grower to many interested ears.
The Dorset History Society’s rolling historic photo exhibition inside the church was an interesting feature and very much appreciated by those who watched the past of Springfield brought to the screen.
“I know the Dorset History Society helped several people with family history issues; they located burial sites previously unknown to family members and I think some families have discovered relatives they didn’t know existed,” Mrs Lette said.
“The images were great quality and very clear, a wonderful exhibition.”
As a whole the day raised more the $4,500 for the ongoing maintenance and renovation costs for the beautiful church and grounds at Springfield.
“The stallholders and the guests all enjoyed themselves and the atmosphere was happy and relaxed.
“People didn’t have to buy anything to have a good time, but we are so thrilled that they did.
“Thank you to all that attended and congratulations to Robert Smith and the Friends of St Paul's committee on a splendid day,” Mrs Lette concluded.