Great Scott’s silver trowel

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
YARRA Junction gardener Pam Scott took out the inaugural Elaine Allan Trophy for her bloomin’ beautiful roses.
The Upper Yarra Valley Garden Club was sprouting a collection of colourful arrangements for its’ autumn flower show on 21 March, with 17 categories from the best cut flower to the best arrangement of ferns, posies and succulents.
It was with the sad passing of long-time member Elaine Allan on 28 February that the trophy for best exhibit, a silver garden trowel, was engraved in Elaine’s memory.
UYGC member Joy Lewellin said Elaine, who was diagnosed with cancer two years ago, treasured the trowel.
She won the top exhibits on many occasions and was a member of several garden clubs.
Ms Lewellin said her friend and Three Bridges neighbour had passed away after a long fight with cancer.
“She never thought it would kill her, but she fought tooth and nail to the end,” Ms Lewellin said.
UYGC president Kevin Hince said Elaine was a keen contributor throughout her membership, and she would be remembered for her gardening skills.
Warburton gardener Len McLean was the best overall exhibitor, winning five of the top gongs, and Ms Scott won the best exhibit for her cream-coloured roses.
“It was my first time entering so I feel very flattered,” she said.
“You can learn so much here and there are some real experts.”
Royal Horticultural Society of Victoria judge Clive Manly lent his expertise to the judging and said he had difficulty choosing the winner.
Other winners on the night included: Karen Meeuwissen, Sheila Denford, Joy Lewellin and Jackie Heeley.