On the weekend that had been set down for Kiama to host the Australian Rose Championships, members of the Illawarra Rose Society gathered at Peace Park in Kiama to share this year’s blooms and honour the life
of former Rose Society President, Robert Curll.

“Over the years we have established that the fourth weekend in October is the best time for roses in the Illawarra,” says Colin Hollis, a Jamberoo resident and Illawarra Rose Society member, who is also the State and National President.

“We’ve tried holding our Rose Show either side of that, and the roses have never been at their peak.

“We are disappointed that the Championships in Kiama have had to be postponed to next year, so it is important to gather together and share some of this year’s blooms.”

Colin used the occasion to plant Robert Curll’s favourite rose, Elina, in one of the garden beds.

“Robert loved roses, and this was his favourite. He nominated it to be our region’s signature rose and championed it having a category of its own, so it is very fitting that one is planted here in his honour given all the time he devoted to this garden.”

Mr Curll was a long time resident of Jamberoo and very well known and respected in the rose and dahlia communities.

Illawarra members of the Rose Society nominated him and his wife Helen for the Garden Clubs of Australia Ann Williams Medallion, which was presented to Helen in early July.

The rose walkway at Peace Park on Manning Street is looking the best it has for several years.

In his role as the Peace Park Coordinator, Colin is looking for local volunteers to help look after the park, which is maintained jointly with Council.

“If you have a couple of hours to spare, once or twice a month, you might be interested in joining the Friends of Peace Park volunteer group.

“All that is needed is three or four people each week to help with such things as watering the roses and generally tidying up.

“We are hoping each person would only be required every two or three weeks.”

Interested people should contact Colin on 4236 0456.