The Galston District Garden Club meet regularly on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in the Galston Community Hall 37 Arcadia Rd, Galston. We welcome new members and visitors.
At our meeting in April, one of our members gave a wonderful presentation of the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden in Burnie, Tasmania, a garden he visited while on holidays.
Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden began in 1981 by members of the Australian Rhododendron Society, North West Tasmanian Branch and is now an independent, non-profit organisation. It is a remarkable private garden built and operated by volunteers in the north-west of Tasmania.
The 11-hectare property is located 8km south of Burnie, off the Ridgeley Highway and features over 24,000 select rhododendrons and companion plants from around the world, creating a spectacular display of blooms between late August and November, and striking Autumn foliage colours from March to May.
The tranquillity of this lush environment can be enjoyed year round, with three pristine mirror like lakes and expansive views from the strategically placed pavilions. The birdsong of diverse bird life, such as fairy wrens, grebes, parrots and honeyeaters, and encounters with native fauna such as platypus and echidna are another unique aspect. In addition to the hybrid rhododendrons familiar to gardeners, they also conserve many wild species of rhododendrons growing in geographically defined areas of the garden, that reflect the plant’s origins – from Asia, across the Himalayas to China, Japan and North America.
On visiting the gardens, you will be amazed at the dedication and hard work of all volunteers. The gardens are just outstanding, the pathways that wind through and around the lakes are easy to navigate. There are many seats around the garden to admire the view and watch the platypus at play. To finish off a walk through the gardens why not enjoy a Devonshire tea at the café.
For more information regarding the Galston District Garden Club, visit our website www.galstongardenclub.com.au or email [email protected]
