Where the Busselton Wildflower Show began
The Wildflower & Environment Show is considered a re-invention of the former ‘Busselton Wildflower Exhibition’ that many will remember. It was a well loved annual event attended by locals and plant enthusiasts from across the state.
Begun in 1925 by the Reverend Bryant of the Congregational Church, the event grew in popularity and reputation, relocating from the original venue at the Weld Theatre to the Busselton Youth Centre and then finally for many years to the Uniting Church in Kent St. It was always strongly supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and local botanical experts.
Rod Cary, of the Geographe Community Landcare Nursery, has been involved in naming of specimens for the Wildflower Show for the past 20 years. He pays tribute to the previous committee, especially Denis Cooper who played a key role in the shows but sadly passed away in 2021. “His knowledge, especially around local orchids and his endless enthusiasm is sadly missed”.
So after a break of a few years, here we are at the 2023 show, the second annual show hosted by the Geographe Community Landcare Nursery Inc. The event is still being powered by volunteers and a passionate love of our local native plants, but is now a more contemporary version of the original and fits well with the GCLN ethos to conserve/promote south west Western Australian flora.
We also wish to take this opportunity to mention the major sponsors of the 2023 show for their wonderful support, we certainly could not have hosted the show without them. Thank you City of Busselton, GeoCatch and Rio Tinto plus the many other sponsors, please visit our Sponsors page here.
The 2023 Event Team
Rod Cary - Horticulturist
Plants and gardens have been in my blood all my life, it's part of my DNA.
My career in horticulture covers everything from turf management to viticulture. But my biggest passion is our local native plants which is why I've I enjoyed my roles at the Geographe Community Landcare Nursery so much for the past 12 years. Working with native plants and the people who love them every day.
After kicking off the new Wildflower & Environment Show in 2022, we knew this show could become an annual event.
It's my absolute pleasure to teach people about native plants, the habitat they create for wildlife, how to rehabilitate land, propagation and so much more.
Jannica Newman - Floral Designer
I've loved being part of the event team for the Wildflower & Environment Show this year. After I had a stall in 2022, I just knew I wanted to be part of this.
I am passionate about Australian native flora and our environment and have a sustainable approach to my floral craft. I use no plastic or flower foam in any of my designs. My preferred components are Australian wildflowers, sticks, leaves, bark, feathers, beads with upcycled jars and vases to create unique and bespoke designs.
Being a floral designer for many years, I was trained in both traditional and European design. But my favorite thing is to think outside the box and use materials in different ways to create something fabulous and minimise waste.
Anne Grove - Administration
A love of gardens and the natural environment has been a constant in my life, so no real surprise that working at the Geographe Community Nursery suits me perfectly.
My background in small business and project management has equipped me surprisingly well for event work. I now refer to myself as the 'accidental event manager'.
There is no denying that putting an event together is a big undertaking, but it's made enjoyable when you are working with enthusiastic team members all eager to go the extra mile. We all trust that you will enjoy the show and learn a little bit more about our beautiful region and stunning wildflowers.
Chris Redpath - Florist & Artist
I'm the newbie on the event team this year.... it's a roller coaster, but great fun.
Originally from Perth, I have many years experience in country and European floral design, running my own flower shop in Subiaco and teaching the trade.
Flowers are definitely my first love, but I'm also passionate about my art and enjoy experimenting with media, the constant learning curve and the challenges it brings.