A magnificent view greeted us across the Avon River Valley beyond the Mograni. While the garden was dry, having access to their own water tanks and grey water system has kept things going very nicely so there were still areas of lovely colour to enjoy.

Win and Mike came to Gloucester originally from South Africa, but lately from Hervey Bay, looking for a cooler climate. They love being in friendly Gloucester, enjoy gardening and their pool, and welcoming visitors to the B & B being operated by the absentee owners.

We appreciated Win and Mike providing us with such a lovely venue for our Christmas meeting, made more pleasant with beautiful morning tea goodies especially cooked by Kerry Marston. We also enjoyed a salad lunch provided by the committee. Our sincere thanks to all these generous people.

The morning was filled with a variety of enjoyable activities. Little Chloe Blanch entertained us with her rendition of My Fairy Garden which has won her several awards for public speaking.

Bruce Barnes' quiz had everyone chuckling; Kerry Marston very capably ran a live auction of two large glazed garden pots, donated by Margaret Blamires, which raised $100 for Rotary's collection for fire victims.

Bev Jackson also ran a fun competition which tested everyone's imagination and creativity. Fred and Marjory Rees judged the Best Decorated Hat competition and Best Christmas Table Centre arrangement. Peter Jackson's masterpiece won him the Men's Competition and Pearl Beggs won the Ladies.

Peter Jackson had a great day - he made good use of succulents to win the best Table Centre arrangement for men while Anne Williamson's lovely arrangement of white roses, red berries, pine cones and foliage won the ladies.

The new Appreciation Awards, which will be presented annually in future, were this time presented to Judy Holstein, Terry Hardwick and Robyn Henderson, for their consistent and ongoing help and support of the Garden Club.

Robyn Franks won the main $10 lucky door prize with Bruce Barnes, Pearl Beggs and Robert Sparke also receiving prizes. Valerie Viertel was absent so missed out on the member's draw so that will jackpot to the next meeting in February, which will be on Wednesday, February 26, 2020.

The Gloucester Garden Club members wish everyone a very happy, safe and joyous festive season with Santa hopefully bringing some rain on his journey to our area.