Having the ladies of Healesville Ladies Probus Club visit the garden on Tuesday 7th of October, was a total delight.
As the ladies were getting out of their cars, Melone, the family dog was there to greet them. He was so excited, with lots of pats coming his way and kind voices saying the perfect thing, Melone was in seventh heaven. I could see the huge smile on his face!
Also to my surprise were a couple of faces I had known for a very long time. Nancy and her husband, Kevin, had owned a wonderful nursery along Dalry Road some years back. I am hopeless with plant names but with Nancy at our side we were able to identify all the unusual plants in my garden. Maureen whom I had known many years ago too when she lived just around the corner on Long Gully Road, commented on the pleasure of living in this lovely valley.
After introductions we quickly headed for the garden, the new area, which just over five years ago had been totally destroyed by the Black Saturday bushfire, was our first point of call. Many questions were asked about specific plants, here is where Nancy saved the day, always knowing even the most difficult botanical name. One plant that people were intrigued by was Cerinthe. It had grown at least twice its usual height, looking impressive with purple and green nodding heads. The garden was just coming in to growth and flower with still many plants not quite in full swing. The ladies didn’t mind at al,l they said there was plenty to see and discover. Both the Welsh poppy and the perennial stock were a highlight, colour and perfume, are always winners. We chatted about the care of plants, pruning penstemons, mulch and the use of old sheep fleece in the garden.
Before heading inside for lunch, everyone wanted to meet the animals, the rescued ones. The sheep and goats were still asleep but quickly woke with the sound of new voices. They are a sleepy lot!! Some of the ladies took the plunge; with feeder in hand they carefully offered food to each of the sheep and goats. As usual Arrow was the first to devour the pellets, however others weren’t far behind him. Some people have a natural feel for the needs of animals and these ladies sure do have the touch.
A cold wind had forced us inside for lunch, with hot cuppas and carrot cake finishing of the meal. I went outside and found a few path treasures to dig up for the ladies to take home. They also purchased plants from the many propagated for the Open Day.
Then to my surprise Joan handed me an envelope, she said “Annette this is a donation for Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge”. I was touched.
All at Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge thank the wonderful ladies of Healesville Probus. I feel their donation may go towards supporting the care of an abused or neglected farm animal who finds its way here.
Melone, Gingy and Gemma also want to thank the ladies as they had the best day. Usually I have to put them inside but this time they were made welcome and encouraged to join in. Lucky dogs!
Joan and her members are always welcome here at Wallingford and swiss replica watches Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge.