By Michael Doran
Warratina Lavender Farm has been a part of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show since its inception 23 years ago and will be there once again in 2019 from Wednesday 27 to Sunday 31 March.
Having such a long presence at the largest horticultural show in the Southern Hemisphere is a great way for owner Annemarie Manders to showcase the Yarra Valley, with more than 130,000 visitors in 2018.
Annemarie said that it was a big decision for her to attend the first time in 1995 but since then Warratina has won seven bronze awards for their displays.
“I was already going to markets to show my lavender and I thought I would stick my neck out and try a big show,” she said. “Along the way I have learnt so much about how to display my products, what people were interested in seeing and what they enjoy.
“It is always a great pleasure to be at this show and to interact with people of gardening interests. A lot of visitors are surprised to learn about the products we make from the edible lavender.
“The edible plant is very different and has a lot less natural camphor in it and I educate them on how to use it. People are becoming much more adventurous in their eating habits and tasting a lavender scone or ice-cream is a real treat.”
This year, the display will include an extensive array of lavender plants and products, made from both edible and non-edible lavender. Warratina’s diverse product range encompasses honey, mustard and marmalade to candles, essential oils and soaps.
In 2019, new major charity partner, Beyond Blue, is set to bring a renewed focus on the impact outdoor spaces have on mental health, alongside the Beyond Blue Charity Garden space with fun and interactive activities for children of all ages.
