Orchid show a sensory feast

THE Our Lady Help of Christians hall came alive with a variety of colours and aromas last weekend thanks to members of the Warrnambool Orchid Club.

By Staff Writer

President of the Warrnambool Orchid Club Rob Dunn was thrilled with this year’s show.

The club hosted its annual orchid show, attracting a large number of entrants and visitors over the two days.

According to club president and orchid show marshal Rob Dunn, recent weather has seen orchids come alive.

“There is a misconception in the community that orchids are really hard to grow, but that isn’t true – not if you have the right knowledge,” Rob said.

“That’s what our club is all about; people sharing tips on when to plant and how to look after the many varieties of orchids available.”

The Warrnambool Orchid Club currently has around 30 members, with many of them contributing to last weekend’s show.

“We had a fabulous display and a wonderful competition; the standard was incredible,” Rob said.

“Overall we probably had in excess of 500 people visit over the weekend, it was a real feast for the eyes and the hall smelt incredible.”

Judges over the weekend had a huge task awarding winners from the high quality of entries.

Tom Spillman was awarded both grand champion orchid and reserve champion orchid for his entries, along with champion Australian native species and the Pam Morris Memorial trophy (best group of three masdevallia).

Among the many ‘champion’ prizes awarded were:

Masdevallia – Tom Spillman; Australian native hybrid – John Whitewood; zygopetalum alliance – David Staggard; orchid by a novice grower and best floral art – Marg Baulch; orchid by a junior grower – Katie Hansford.

‘Best display’ awards were presented to Katie Hansford (junior), Paul Horsnall (table, open), Michael Matthews (mini) and Murray and Anne Coverdale (best orchid on a pedestal).

The Warrnambool Orchid Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month in the CWA hall in Kepler Street from 7pm.

New members welcome.