George and Margaret Killick, former president and secretary respectively, were both recognised for their eight years of service to the club in their roles.

“It means a lot to my wife and I,” George said.

“We have always loved gardening and it was wonderful to join this club. We have made a lot of lovely friends here.”

George insists his presidency of the club was very much a team effort with Margaret.

“This is a wonderful honour, it was unexpected and a lovely surprise,” Margaret said.

“We have made a lot of friends here who have all been wonderful to us.”

The couple, formerly of Galong, joined the club 12 years ago after being asked to share their expertise regarding geraniums.

They soon formed a strong bond with other members and happily assumed their active responsibilities within the club.

Sadly the couple have not been able to take an active part in the club since moving to Young last year after Margaret suffered a stroke.

Her steady recovery has given them hope though that they will soon be able take part in more club activities.

The 50^th anniversary luncheon at the Carrington Hotel on Monday gave them an opportunity to catch up with many friends.

37 members and guests attended the celebration, including guest speaker Daphne Davis, daughter of the late Vic Shumack, and fellow life member Gwen Whybrow.

Gwen has been a member of the club since its humble beginnings under Des Rudd 50 years ago.

“We thought it would be a good idea to start a club to help people with their gardening,” Gwen said.

“It’s been a wonderful experience and very educational with all our guest speakers over the years. You can keep on learning about gardening all your life, there is always something different.”

Gwen says it is important to her to pass on the knowledge she has gained, and hopefully inspire a love of gardening in others.

“I always say you can spend many happy hours in a garden.”