Warwick gardener wins best dahlia
AN UNLIKELY hobby has made Warwick resident Ron Cook a champion.
Rose City gardeners have defied tough growing conditions to produce an array of bright blooms for the annual autumn flower show, and Mr Cook took out the winning dahlia.
"This is the third time I've entered in Warwick," he said. "I've won champion once before at Tenterfield and novice here three years ago.
"Dahlias appeal to me because of the different types and colours."
Judging started yesterday for the 108th show at St Mary's Hall.
Brisbane judge Heather Prior said dahlias were a particularly tough flower to exhibit.
"Dahlias especially like a lot of water so the number here is impressive," Mrs Prior said. "They need to meet a particular standard and have the petals be a certain shape, and they get points for form, presentation and freshness. Warwick Horticultural Society secretary Margot Cory said the displays were pleasing considering the harsh summer, but said more children and schools were wanted at future exhibits.
The exhibit reopens at 9am today, with prizes presented at 4pm.
