145 years of green thumbs

By Emily Donohoe

Sep 8, 2024

Lois Dixon, Cathy Sproal and Jill Banch with some of the plants available to swap and sell. Photo: Aidan Briggs Photo by Aidan Briggs

The Echuca Horticultural Society recently celebrated its 145th anniversary, welcoming gardening groups from across the region.

The event, held at the Echuca Bowls Club, featured guest speakers, a donated raffle, sweet treats, a plant trade area, and a custom-made cake cut by the society's longest-serving member, Esma Dwyer.

In honour of their 145th birthday, the Echuca Horticultural Society hosted a celebration with gardening groups across the area. Photo: Aidan Briggs Photo by Aidan Briggs

Longest-serving member Esma Dwyer cuts the cake next to president Kim Wallace. Photo: Supplied

Over 90 attendees travelled from near and far to mark nearly 145 years since the society's first meeting on September 18, 1879.

As Victoria's longest-running gardening club, the Echuca Horticultural Society has maintained its meetings even through the world wars

Gargarro Botanic Gardens chair Doc McDonald was among the guest speakers at the event. Photo: Aidan Briggs

Horticultural Society 145th Birthday. Caroline Arrowsmith, Anne Dryden, Esma Dwyer and Sally Cuttriss. Photo: Aidan Briggs

Guests from the Bendigo Garden Club, Cohuna Garden Lovers Club, Finley Garden Lovers Club, Kaarimba Gardening Friends, Kerang & District Garden Club, Koondrook/Barham Garden Society, Kyabram & Rushworth Garden Club, Mooroopna & District Garden Club, Numurkah Garden Club, Swan Hill & District Garden Club, Shepparton & District Dahlia Club, and Tatura Garden Club joined in the celebrations.