The Shoalhaven Orchids Society was formed in April 1956 and celebrated its 65th anniversary in April 2021. From that early beginning the society has developed into a vibrant organisation which now has almost one hundred members. Some members have been growing orchids for many years and are experienced growers with very large collections. However, many of our members are newcomers to the hobby who are very keen to learn how to look after their orchids and bring them into flower for their own enjoyment.

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The society’s main aim is to encourage and foster the love of orchids and it warmly welcomes potential new members and visitors to all of its events and meetings.

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The society produces a newsletter each month (except January) which has all the latest information to keep members up to date. To see current and past newsletters go to the Articles page.

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The society organises three shows a year: a Winter Show in July, a Spring Show in September and an October show.

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For information about joining go to our Membership page.

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President - Louise Gannon

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Vice President - Martin Montebello

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Hon. Secretary - Françoise Sikora 

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Hon. Treasurer - Kerrie Carter

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Committee:

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Ron Findlater, Sandra Ellis, John Clancy, Stafford Lester, Val Starling, John Clarke, Sue Montebello

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Click here to view our Yearly Schedule.

Meetings are held on the third Monday of each month (except January) at the Bomaderry Community Centre and start at 7.00pm for most of the year. However, our winter meetings (June, July and August) will be held during the day. We will still be at the Bomaderry Community Centre but on the third Saturday of each of these months starting at 10am.

 

At the meeting there is a guest speaker, either a local member or a visitor, who talks on some aspect of orchid culture.

 

Members bench their flowering orchids and there is a friendly competition as members vote for their favourite orchids. Orchids are benched in four sections:

 

OPEN for the experienced growers who have won a significant number of prizes: INTERMEDIATE for growers who have been growing orchids for some time and have had some success on the benches;

NOVICE for beginners who are learning the basics of orchid culture; and

JUNIOR for members aged 5 – 16 years included in a Family membership.

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 The society has an extensive library and a sales table where members can sell any surplus orchids they have or purchase orchid supplies. Supper time provides an opportunity to chat and get to know other members.

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