After I returned from my Queenstown holiday, Nambour had its popular and crowded Gardening Expo which is always held in July. “Growing your own” has been a slogan used by many families who love to grow, create and enjoy their own veggies, plants and landscape. Thousands of visitors came through the gates to attend workshops, buy plants, learn about new products and find out all the tips for improving their garden.

I love the garden art, ceramics, water features, gardening books, floral displays and pots.

This lovely birdhouse was selling fast and I bought the cute chook made by a Maleny potter. Now anything that’s different or appealing in the garden like the nude ladies is meant to add humour. A touch of the unexpected. A surprise find!

I had in my mind to find the native nursery and come away with 4 new shrubs – grevillas etc. As I approached this busy area, I saw beautiful orchids, bromeliads, palms and gardenias. Exhibitors showcased their plants according to a key map and guide so finding the right plant was quite easy.

There was the Brisbane organic growers, the waterlily garden, Sunshine Coast garden club, Bamboo Society of Australia, Daley’s Turf, and many more. Apart from green, there were excellent products on display – garden sheds, award winning teas, Kenilworth country cheeses, stylish kitchen gadgets, Cooloola strawberries, self fertilising vertical garden containers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, wrought iron gates, the German sausage hut, hot chocolate, Brazilian food, Byron Bay organic do-nuts, and more – services by Rotary, Apex clubs, Buderim Garden club and the list goes on.

It was great to see interactive sharing with the younger and older generations – potting plants and digging in the soil.

The benefits of gardening to all ages is satisfying and productive.

It clears the mind, creates strength and health of the body and nurtures pride. Gardening is the perfect antidote for our modern world; it is sensory and boosts your mood. Whether it’s a roof top garden or taking the children out to dig for worms, pick strawberries, it requires fitness and keen observation. For me it’s been a learning curve especially living on a sloped site with a view. Mapleton soil is rich and fertile producing an abundance of crops. Gardening is about creating places to sit and enjoy outdoor dinners.

Another surprise feature at the Expo were the ghost sculptures that brought many smiles and curious stares. Take a look at this. How interesting!! And all made from wire.

There’s romance in the garden when these friendly ghosts look on!

Or humour when these mushrooms smile back at you.

Tell me about any other Expos you have attended that inspired you. Or about your garden. I’ll be back next year to Nambour for this wonderful event.