Peninsula gardens win Gosford awards

Two Peninsula gardens have each received an award in this year's Gosford City Garden Competition.

It is the fifth time in a row Umina resident Ms Alva Bell has been recognised for her outstanding garden.

Ms Bell was one of six winners in the Open Garden award category.

Her garden was open for public viewing on October 19, by gold coin donation.

All money raised from the viewing went to the Give Me Five for Kids charity.

Ettalong Beach residents Ada and Nick Van Vliet received the best patio or balcony display at this year's award ceremony.

The Ettalong Beach couple also received awards in the past two Gosford City Garden Competitions.

All winners of this year's garden competition were announced a special ceremony at the Gosford Regional Gallery on October 16.

Mayor of Gosford Cr Holstein said the competition was council's opportunity to recognise and thank the region's local gardeners.

"I never cease to be amazed, and more than a little envious, at the work and the dedication of our local gardeners," Cr Holstein said.

"I particularly applaud the schools that entered this year's competition - these students and teachers are the inspiration.

"In the current climate, gardens must become tougher and more resilient to survive and judges were on the lookout for healthy, environmentally-friendly, water-conserving plots.

"Some of the garden inclusions that earned ticks of approval this year included the use of drought-tolerant native plants, water tanks, grey water, mulch, worm farms and compost bins.

"The leadership of this year's winners will help to ensure that these considerations become essentials, rather than options, for every Gosford City gardener of the future."

Press release, 17 Oct 2008 Lisa-Maree Schell, Gosford Council