DESPITE the inclement weather, hundreds of visitors turned out to support George Hoad's charity Art in the Garden open day, held on Sunday April 24 at his Killabakh property.
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"I awoke early Sunday morning to the sound of rain and my heart sank but as the day progressed, the sun broke through and the visitors poured in," George said.
Visitors were in awe of the size of the garden and exclaimed over the work it must take to maintain it.
People were charmed by the many garden rooms, and the placing of many garden ornaments giving the property a whimsical appeal to both adults and children.
But it was not all charm and whimsy - many photographs were taken of the majestic spectacle of the classical fountain as a focal point drawing the eye to the stunning views to the mountains.
Many garden lovers were inspired to return home and emulate George's creativity, meaning the plant sellers' stalls at the exit did a roaring trade on the day.
By the day's end, over 750 people enjoyed George's quirky country garden and admired the dozens of garden artworks on display, with many travelling from as far as Walcha, South West Rocks, Port Macquarie, Forster and the Hunter region.
"Everyone I spoke to was so complimentary and impressed by the diversity and quality of the art, with many pieces being sold on the day and orders taken for more," George said.
"One of the aims of the day was to have such fabulous pieces of garden art displayed, where people could admire them and get an idea of how they might look in there own gardens."
All proceeds from the day are donated to a charity close to George's heart, Ronald McDonald House Newcastle, this year celebrating 25 years of service, care and accommodation to sick children and their families from across the Mid North Coast.
More than $7500 was raised from gate admission, a fundraising raffle and takings from the café. George's mother cooked 700 scones for the day and Killabakh ladies prepared hundreds of yummy sandwiches.
"I would like to thank everyone who supported the day, including the visitors, the artists, my family and friends and especially members of the Killabakh community, who all assisted in making this Art in the Garden event such a great success.
