Canberra Floriade 2023

Nine members enjoyed a very memorable coach trip to Canberra in September to see the famous Floriade and the sights of Canberra itself.  Floriade's theme in 2023 was Floral Wonderland and a diverse program of entertainment, food and wine, displays, market traders, and kids' activities, including captivating performances in the Floriade Wonderland Spiegeltent.

Flowerbeds featuring mostly tulips, pansies, violas and various daisies, in fantastic colour combinations and themed layouts, as far as the eye could see. We returned another night to enjoy the spectacle so beautifully illuminated, and enjoyed listening and dancing to the music at the main of 4 or 5 soundstages.

Our members joined in tours of Old and New Houses of Parliament, the Griffin Memorial on Mt Ainslie, where Marion Griffin is also celebrated for her huge contribution to the planning of Canberra, in collaboration with her more famous husband. The museum of Canberra, The National Museum of Australia, and the many beautiful sights around the spectacular parklands and iconic buildings.

A trip to Cockington Green Gardens enabled us to enjoy 1/12  miniatures of English villages, and a newer International development completed with advice from the relevant countries that are represented. The gardens, bonsai and all genuine lawns are perfectly maintained around the meticulously constructed exhibits. Floral displays to rival Floriade. Sensational.