Staying strong after four decades supporting horticulture sector
THE Queensland Garden Expo, Queensland’s premier gardening event, is hatching a plethora of birthday surprises for its 40th anniversary, including the return of the popular Poultry Spectacular and with it, what is believed to be, Australia’s first-ever rooster crowing competition.
With more than seven hectares of garden inspiration, 50,000 plants on sale each day and Australia’s largest gardening speaker program, Nambour Showgrounds has transformed into a gardener’s paradise since it started in 1985 offering everyone, from new to experienced gardeners, the chance to gather ideas, learn new techniques and purchase from over 360 exhibitors.
Event Manager Marion Beazley said the 40-year celebrations included an expanded event program from three to four days and the introduction of the Expo’s inaugural “Crowing Competition” where entrants will deliver their best rooster impression as voted by the crowd.
“Expo visitors will have the opportunity to let their inner rooster loose and vie for some fabulous prizes in, what we believe is, an Australian first,” Ms Beazley said.
“Daily heats will take place at 1pm, leading up to the exciting Grand Finale to be held on Sunday.
“In addition to this fun new event, we’re thrilled to introduce daily Q&A sessions with several renowned poultry experts.
“These sessions will offer invaluable insights and advice on backyard chicken keeping, perfectly complementing our extensive gardening speaker program, the largest of its kind in Australia.
“The Expo’s 40th anniversary includes an expanded speaker program with 50 gardening experts delivering over 150 free lectures and demonstrations across six stages, headlined by crowd favourites such as Jerry Coleby-Williams, Costa Georgiadis, Sophie Thomson, Phil Dudman, Millie Ross and Claire Bickle.”
Chief Poultry Steward Rob Leck said he is looking forward to sharing his passion for chickens and offering expert advice on backyard chickens to both seasoned poultry keepers and newcomers.
“We were overwhelmed with the level of interest we had in our poultry last year,” Mr Leck said.
“The Poultry Spectacular brings together poultry breeders from all corners of the country and features an extensive range of poultry standard classes, providing breeders with a comprehensive evaluation opportunity.
“At this year’s event, we’ll showcase a dazzling array of breeds, including a comparison of Australian vs. American breeds, to demonstrate to visitors the utility breeds of poultry that are most adaptable to both backyard environments and show benches.
“There will be plenty of expert advice for aspiring chicken keepers from the Poultry Spectacular’s esteemed judges, who are also part of the Expo’s speaker program.
“Keeping chickens is also fantastic for teaching kids about responsibility, sustainability and where our food comes from.”
With free entry for children aged 15 and under, Ms Beazley said chickens aren’t the only exhibit at the Expo to keep the kids entertained.
qldgardenexpo.com.au
