ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC
By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC
SWEET scents drifted across Morwell as thousands flocked to see the the vibrant colours of the International Rose Garden Festival. In its sixth year, the free community event has become one of Latrobe City’s biggest highlights of the year. Organised by Latrobe City Council, the annual event last weekend attracted people from far and wide to enjoy the garden’s 4000 roses. The flower festival was a great success showcasing the beauty of the region with some fantastic entertainment, attractions and eats available to enjoy. Community and visitors were invited to enjoy all that the two-day event had to offer. Attending the event was special guest, ABC Gardening Australia host and crowd favourite Costa Georgiadis. New event attractions included An Evening with Costa, and the option to travel to the event on the Saturday by Heritage Steam Train from Melbourne or Pakenham. Over the course of two days people we’re able to smell and see the extensive range of rose varieties and enjoy the live music. There was something for everyone as the little ones were treated to children’s activities including Sunday’s live performance of ‘The Grubby Bucket Show’, with Costa the Gnome and scrapboy from dirtgirlworld. The Morwell Branch of the Country Women’s Association had delicious treats on offer with many food stalls to quell your hunger while you explored through the enchanted garden. The festival didn’t stop when the sun went down as keen festivalgoers were mesmerised as the night light display brought the garden to life. With the impressive light display a highlight for many, Latrobe City Council thanked AGL Loy Yang for their increased investment into the night time show. A Latrobe City Council spokesperson said this year’s event was a great success. “This year’s program showcased the roses and garden in full bloom while offering family-friendly activities and entertainment across the weekend,” they said. “ABC Gardening Australia Host and crowd favourite Costa Georgiadis returned to the Festival once again, hosting and judging the cut the rose competition and providing his gardening knowledge at multiple events across the weekend.” The LCC spokesperson commented on the popularity of the Heritage Steam Train that transported visitors to the festival in style. The council wishes to thank all those involved in another great International Rose Garden Festival. “Thank you to the sponsors, local businesses, volunteers, community members, volunteers and Council staff who contributed to bringing the festival to life for another year,” they said. “The International Rose Garden Festival is a pivotal event to not only bring the community together, but also support our wonderful local businesses and highlight our city as a great place to live, work and visit.”
