Jennifer and Don Rickerby from the RHSV came at short notice to speak to us.
Firstly, we were greatly entertained by Don, who told us some amazing facts about and uses for the humble cucumber. Don explained that cucumbers are not only packed with vitamins and minerals, they also have many practical uses. They are a great pick-me-up and can even deter garden pests. Cucumbers reduce the appearance of cellulite and wrinkles. They prevent hangovers and headaches if eaten before bed. You can polish your shoes with them and they provide an alternative to WD40 for fixing squeaky doors. They are a breath freshener and clean chrome taps. The rind removes pen marks from walls - and the cucumbers can be used to punish the perpetrators!
Jennifer then took the floor and spoke while we showed photos that Karina and Julianne had taken at the MIFGS in March, in particular, photos of the RHSV Hanging Basket competition. Our club enters a basket in the competition, this year lovingly prepared by Karina.
Competitors are provided with a pack containing a basket, a bag of Debco potting mix and a $10 voucher to contribute to the cost of plants. Jennifer explained the only limit is your imagination!
We had a lot of club members volunteer to assist at the show, which is a great way of interacting with the public who attend.
Jennifer told us that the competition has been going for thirteen years and now attracts 240 entries. It’s very popular with the public and includes different categories, including one for youth and students.
Jennifer said it is ‘warfare’ to protect the baskets from possums, which they do through netting each basket - a time-consuming and tedious job, in which they are assisted by volunteers.
Jennifer was very grateful to our volunteers giving their time to assist. Some of the volunteers spoke to members about their experience, so we hope to have even more next year. Many international and interstate visitors are attracted to the show, not just locals.
