THERE are more than 550 garden clubs in Australia with approximately 50,000 members.
For gardening guru Mal McKinlay these numbers are reflective of how a love of gardening can connect people.
On Tuesday he hosted a gathering of 30 garden club representatives from across the Mid North Coast zone at Bonny Hills Community Hall, including attendees from orchid societies, bonsai groups, and floral art groups. .
Mal juggles 45 speaking events each year alongside his work at Bonny Hills Nursery and regular radio spots.
“There’s an image of gardening being solely an interest for older people, but gardening covers so many different things,” he told NOTA.
“It can be as small as a single pot on a balcony.
“I love hearing people’s stories about what they have achieved in gardening and how it brings the community together.”
As community gardens such as the new one underway in Wauchope become more popular, Mal is hoping to see families participating and instilling a love of gardening in children while they are still young.
These community gardens facilitate the growing of herbs and vegetables with a communal sharing of produce and gardening skills.
During the meeting ideas were discussed for bus trips known as “Friendship Day Visits” to local and community gardens.
These allow for the exchange of ideas between regions as well as providing an enjoyable outing for gardeners who love to travel.
The Mid North Coast is home to some of the most established garden clubs in the country, with the Camden Haven club celebrating 40 years of operation this year, Hallidays Point marking 30 years, and excitement already building for a 70th celebration for Wauchope’s club in 2028.
By Rachael THORPE
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