When the president of Garden Clubs of Australia, George Hoad, was in Parkes on June 22, he said not only do garden clubs engender interest in gardens and plants, but "importantly they bring people together".
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And that's exactly what the Parkes Garden Club has been doing for the last 25 years.
The Garden Club this year celebrates its 25th anniversary and to mark the occasion, Parkes Shire Council hosted a civic reception on Saturday, June 22 in its Council Chambers.
Mr Hoad was the guest of honour for the occasion, along with past Garden Club committee members, three of whom had been on the original 1994 committee.
Parkes Mayor Ken Keith OAM ran the proceedings, which included some special presentations and the cutting of the 25th anniversary cake made by Parkes' master cake decorator Kath Swansbra.
Cr Keith spoke of the pride Parkes Shire Council has in its parks and gardens and its vision for establishing a community garden in the future.
He welcomed and presented Mr Hoad with a Sir Henry Parkes Medallion to celebrate and recognise the occasion.
Mr Hoad presented a Silver Anniversary Certificate to Parkes Garden Club president Norma Garment and the Parkes Garden Club, and together - with Coral Barber and Isabel Orange, original committee members - they all cut the celebration cake.
Mr Hoad also spoke at the reception, congratulating the Garden Club on their milestone
He told those present that he visits many garden clubs around the country to promote the Garden Clubs of Australia's motto 'Friendship through gardens'.
Club member Elsie Mahon read a clever and humorous poem she had composed to the guests.
A beautiful morning tea followed the formalities, with everyone enjoying a chat and the photo display showing many past club events and happy times.
The Parkes Garden Club hosted a barbecue in March at Lions Park to kick off their first event for 2019, while also informally celebrating their 25th birthday.
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