It’s a milestone month for Aspley Orchid Society Inc, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary while also hosting its first orchid show of the year on Valentine’s Day.
The society’s Summer Show will be held at the Pine Rivers Showgrounds Hall in Lawnton on Saturday, 14 February.
Secretary Roslyn Hunt said visitors could expect competitive orchid displays and orchid sales.
“Hosting the show on Valentine’s Day brings an extra touch of charm, as the romantic themes of the occasion match the orchids’ delicate beauty and make them an ideal gift to express love to that special someone,” Roslyn said.
Attendees can receive expert advice from experienced growers, purchase orchid-growing supplies, enjoy refreshments and coffee, and enter the orchid raffle.
Celebrating 50 Years of Orchids and Community
The society held its inaugural meeting on 6 February 1976.
President Trich Ewing said that with 50 years on the board, Aspley Orchid Society could rightly say it was part of the local community fabric.
“There is a lot of pride in being part of a group that for 50 years has been a community meeting point for people, be they novices or experienced growers, to share a love of these wonderful plants,” Trich said.
A key moment for the society came in 1995, when life member Chris Duffy established the New Growers group to educate new members about growing orchids.
“This initiative continues to this day and has contributed to raising public awareness about our organisation and bringing in new members,” Chris said.
Another milestone came in 1982, when the society secured a permanent venue at the Wavell Heights Community Hall.
“When more space was required, members rallied and helped enclose and roof the veranda, expanding the hall for society and wider community use,” Chris said.
To celebrate the anniversary, the society will hold a dinner in mid-March.
“Our members and supporters see the formal 50th anniversary dinner later this year as a thank you to members past and present, as well as a celebration of our achievements – such as all the years of hosting successful orchid shows and expanding our membership, as well as our commitment to future excellence in orchid growing and community spirit,” Roslyn said.
“We look forward to nurturing future generations, strengthening our ties with the wider community, and celebrating orchids for decades to come.”
Admission to the Valentine’s Day orchid show is $4 for adults, with children under 16 free.
Find more information about Aspley Orchid Society here.
Aspley Orchid Society Inc Summer Show
- Saturday, 14 February, 8am-3.30pm
- Pine Rivers Showgrounds Hall
- 757 Gympie Road, Lawnton
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