Rains hold-off for Ramble triumph

The life-giving rains held-off just long enough to ensure another hugely successful Garden Ramble for Millthorpe over the weekend.

Forecast heavy showers didn’t materialise until mid-afternoon Sunday by which time most Ramblers had experienced the eclectic range of 10 town and country gardens on display in Millthorpe and surrounds.

“I just thought it was a lovely weekend with a wonderful variety of gardens,” Committee Member Lyndall Harrison enthused.

Properties on show ranged from quirky, bush-themed gardens to extensive country estates and English-themed cottage gardens. “I was really impressed with the variety of gardens on display and people can get some ideas for their own gardens from these,” Lyndall said.

As well as the committed gardeners whose own plots featured in the 16th year of the Ramble, she was particularly grateful to the volunteers who help make this community event a continuing success.

“Visitors really noticed the community spirit of Millthorpe. It was something they commented on. We had over 100 volunteers, some long-term, for some this was their first year, which is pretty incredible,” Lyndall said.

“There were also people who weren’t volunteers who asked, ‘put me on the list for next year,’ which is a great sign for the future of the event,” Lyndall added.

The show saw an estimated 1200 ramblers with profits going to continuing projects to beautify the historic village which this year featured a find-an-item game for children and a performance from a Sydney-based orchestra.  

“Spotto was again very popular with the children and a big crowd witnessed the Cameraygal Wind Symphony performance on the Sunday morning.  The popular Central West Dahlia Society's stall was also a sell-out!” Lyndall added.

“The Ramble Committee very much appreciates the support from local businesses with donations and lucky gate prizes as well as from the generous and long-standing major sponsors Newcrest (Cadia) and Coates Hire,” Lyndall concluded.  

Next year's Ramble will be on the weekend of 31 October and 1st November.