Lockdown presented many challenges, some good and others bad, throughout the Hunter in recent months.
But, one of the upsides resulted in more residents tending to their yards while bound at home.
Now, with Spring in full bloom, local “green thumbs” are being given the chance to showcase their “pride and joy” for the opportunity to claim the title of Newcastle’s best garden in the newly-launched Newcastle Garden Awards.
The concept is the brainchild of Michael Edwards.
“The idea grew from my role in the property industry, where not only are we exposed to stunning homes but, equally, beautiful gardens,” he said.
“There didn’t seem to be a platform to feature the many spectacular gardens across the Newcastle region or the hard work, passion and dedication that is put in by their owners.”
After a brief conversation regarding the notion – and agreeing that there had long been lacking a chance for gardens across the area to shine, local garden guru Judy Sharpe accepted a role as judge for the Newcastle Garden Awards.
“I’m delighted to have Judy on board,” Mr Edwards said.
“She’s certainly a popular figure within the readership of the Newcastle Weekly.
“Judy will be joined on the judging panel by another industry stalwart in Brian Bird.
“So, we’re eagerly awaiting the first-time entrants.
“I’m hoping the event becomes an annual fixture on the local calendar, too.”
The inaugural Newcastle Garden Awards will provide a showcase for all different types of gardens with four categories: Best Small Garden, Best Small Spaces Garden, Best Large Garden and People’s Choice.
“The judges will look at all aspects of the garden plant selection, hard landscaping and careful maintenance,” Mr Edwards said.
“The small spaces category offers an opportunity for those who creatively maximise the limited space and hard surfaces of flats, townhouses, balconies or courtyards through the use of puts, planter boxes, ornaments and walled gardens.
“The People’s Choice award will give the chance for the residents of the Newcastle region to vote via social media for their favourite garden.”
Entries for the Newcastle Garden Awards will be submitted electronically at www.newcastlesbestgarden.com.au, with participants uploading their own garden photos.
The competition opens from Thursday 21 October.
Finalists will be announced on Monday 15 November with judges conducting site inspections before proclaiming the winners on Thursday 25 November.
For further information, contact Michael Edwards at [email protected] or phone 0407 223 576.
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