During the extended Covid-19 lockdown, the green thumbs of Wollondilly have had plenty of time to potter in their gardens in preparation for the 2021 Wollondilly Spring Garden Competition.

The annual Garden Competition is a popular event on Council’s calendar, bringing together like-minded community members with a passion for gardening.

Mayor Robert Khan said, “Wollondilly Council has a long and proud history of conducting the Spring Garden Competition, which was established in 1997.”

“We are one of the few local councils still organising and providing a garden competition for our local residents and community.”

“This year more than ever, the Spring Garden Competition is a way for our local gardeners to showcase all their hard work and the time they have invested to make our Shire more beautiful.”

Entries opened on Monday 19 July and will close on Tuesday 14 September, giving participants extra time to perfect their plots and fill in the entry form, which is available on Council’s website

This year’s competition has some exciting changes, such as new prizes including $1000 for the Grand Champion.

The first place winner in each category will receive $200; second place in each category will win $100; and there are five judges’ encouragement awards valued at $60.00 each.

There are also some new award categories in 2021, with something to suit every age and ability. The award categories are:

• Best Environmentally Sustainable Garden           
• Best Rural Garden     
• Best Edible Garden
• Best Senior’s Garden            
• Best Community Garden       
• Best School Garden
• Best Small Residential Garden           
• Best Flower Garden  
• Best Business/Commercial Garden
• Best New Garden      
• Best Courtyard Garden         
• Best Staff Garden (no prize awarded for this category)
• Best Large Residential Garden           
• Best Native Garden   

Judging will be completed from 27 September until 1 October 2021, with school judging taking place on 16 -17 September.

An announcement of the winners and a presentation of prizes will take place at the Spring Garden Expo on Saturday 30 October 2021 (subject to current NSW Government Health advice).

More information can be obtained by emailing events@wollondilly.nsw.gov.au or by phoning council on 4677 1100.