It could not have been predicted at our February meeting that in February and March the Northern Rivers would be inundated with unprecedented rains and flooding, the likes of which had never been experienced in our region previously.  Lismore may never recover, losses of homes and businesses unimaginable and life-changing. The overabundance of rain was certainly felt on all gardens!

At the Garden Club, Judy Baker and Fay Bogg were presented with life memberships – well-deserved rewards for the ladies in recognition of their many years of service to the Club.  On a very sad note, we saw the passing of our longest-standing member Daisy Dare.  Daisy reached the wonderful age of 101 and her absence from meetings will be felt.

The Club is still on a very good financial footing.  As there had been fewer meetings held in 2021 due to challenges caused by Covid-19, it was decided to carry forward the 2021 membership fees through to 2022.  When Anne Tubridy was unable to continue in her duties as Co-President, Vice-President Rosemary Edwards stepped into the position and proved to be a great asset in this job. Due to changes required by the NSW Govt’s Statement of Regulatory Intent, it was necessary for the Club to update its Constitution to current requirements.  The Christmas lunch for 2022 was held at Invercauld House in Goonellabah where 80 happy gardeners enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow members.

Guest speakers this year included the following:  Robyn Armstrong, Lesley Player, Shirley Boyle, Steven Wedd, Hendrika Johnson, Diana Harden and Lesley Player while Carol Lea, Faye Dwyer and Annet Rassow demonstrated how to make wonderful floral wreaths using flowers and greenery from our gardens, delicate wreaths in different shapes and Kokedamas.

Garden visits were hosted by Susan Fitzpatrick at Alstonville, Carol Lea at Clunes, Suzy Johnston and neighbours (Andrew and Anna) at Cumbalum, Sue Barrett at Ocean Grove, Diana Harden at Cumbalum and Lauren Julian at Bangalow.  In August there was a bus trip to the Botanical Garden in Nerang – much enjoyed by everyone.

At the AGM in November, the following members took on Committee roles:

BANGALOW GARDEN CLUB COMMITTEE 2023

CO-PRESIDENT:                                                      Adelina Linardon

CO-PRESIDENT:                                                      Rosemary Edwards

VICE PRESIDENT:                                                    Diana Sharpe

HONORARY SECRETARY:                                      Diana Harden

HONORARY TREASURER:                                     Liz Hind

MEMBERSHIP/ASSISTANT TREASURER:          Sue Brennan

PUBLIC OFFICER:                                                    Steven Wedd

COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

CO-ORDINATOR                                         Adelina Linardon

PHOTOGRAPHER                                       Judy Baker

VIDEOGRAPHER                                                     Nicole Barlow

CATERING TEAM:                                                   Judy Ellis and Jan Millburn

GUEST SPEAKER TEAM:                                        Margaret Bruce and Diana Sharpe

GARDEN VISIT TEAM:                                           Lesley Player and Susie Johnson

BUS TRIP ORGANISER:                                          Stephen Stocker

WELCOME TEAM:                                                  Helen Barlow & Liz Tom

FLORA OF THE MONTH:                                       Marie Pfisterer

AUCTIONEERS:                                                        Hazel Sowerby and Steven Wedd

Our thanks to all of these members.