Secateurs at the ready

Ravenswood School for Girls is hosting the 36th Annual NSW Camellia Research Society Show.

Jazz up your japonicas and snip off your sasanquas, the Camellia Show is coming to Gordon. Whether you are an avid horticulturist or you only get a green thumb once in a blue moon, the Camellia Show is the perfect opportunity to see how your blooms stack up.

The competition is open to everyone and with 162 different categories there is little chance of your favourite flower being overlooked.

Camellia Society President Rachel O'Connor claims that the weekend of festivities is not only a chance to show off your own handy work, but will also be a showcase for "the remarkable hybrid cultivars and miniature camellias, which have recently been propagated around the world."

With 500 entrants from Wollongong to Silverdale, the competition for champion collection is expected to be fiercely fought. Each of the categories boasts prizes, whether it be a sash, trophy, gift voucher or the mere glory, high-class camellias won't go unrewarded.

For those of you who don't know your anenomy from your peony form flower, the Camellia Show will also be selling plants and serving afternoon tea.

Get your fix, Saturday July 9, 1.30pm to 5pm, Sunday July 10 11am to 4pm. Anyone who thinks that their camellias are worthy should bring along a fresh, unmarked bloom.