Our Story
Our club is a vibrant community of gardening enthusiasts, inspiring and connecting members through events, garden visits, and community projects.
Club History
The Berry & District Garden Club Inc was established on 13 July 1977, after a public notice in the South Coast Register invited anyone interested in forming a garden club to a meeting. With an enthusiastic response, the club began with an initial membership of 37, many of whom had been part of the Shoalhaven Garden Club. The first leadership team included Nancy Bevan as President, Beverley Ray as Secretary, and Lillian Wilkins as Treasurer.
Initially, meetings were held at the Berry Public School, then moved to the CWA Hall as membership grew. As the club continued to expand, meetings were relocated to the Berry Masonic Village. In 2013, the club found a new home at St. Luke’s Church Hall, where members have been able to embrace modern technology, enriching the club’s activities and presentations.
Over the decades, the Berry & District Garden Club has become an integral part of the community, hosting signature events like the Berry Gardens Festival and contributing to local beautification projects. Our history is a testament to the dedication and shared passion of our members, past and present, who have helped the club flourish.
Community Involvement
The Berry & District Garden Club is deeply committed to enhancing the Berry community and supporting local gardening initiatives.
By 2018, funds raised through the Berry Gardens Festival enabled nearly $750,000 in donations to local non-profits, significantly impacting the region.
The club's dedication has earned national recognition, winning The Eleanor McLeod Award from The Garden Clubs of Australia three times for Outstanding Service to the Community.
Additionally, the club sponsors horticulture prizes at the Berry Agricultural Show, including the Bowl of Pentas, in honour of founding Life Member Betty Miles.
Proceeds from the Garden Festival have supported numerous community projects, such as:
Berry Apex Park: Funded the Rotunda installation, bridge, cherry tree walk, playground shade, and ongoing maintenance.
Berry School of Arts: Enhanced landscaping with Shoalhaven City Council.
Berry Courthouse: Installed a fountain and surrounding plantings.
David Berry Hospital: Created gardens behind the palliative care unit.
Berry Train Station: Helped establish a station garden.
Community Spaces: Contributed to footpaths, park benches, Berry Public School's outdoor area, and Camp Quality Park.
These efforts highlight the club’s commitment to beautifying Berry and fostering community spirit.
The Committee
Our dedicated committee members work tirelessly to organise events, manage club activities, and ensure that our club continues to grow and flourish. Their commitment to creating an inclusive and engaging environment is at the heart of our success.
President: Debra Keller
Vice President: Stephen Buzacott
Secretary: Debra Wooster
Treasurer: Mary Seelis
Committee: Margaret Street, Celia Nicol, Annabelle Duncan
Join the Club
Interested in joining our vibrant community? The Berry & District Garden Club welcomes gardeners of all experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, there’s a place for you here.