This year's Bundaberg Orchid Society annual show provided a special treat for many local mums on Mother’s Day.
Touted as the “best orchid show in Australia” the event attracted exhibitors and more than 2000 visitors to the Bundaberg Civic Centre.
Bundaberg teenagers Kirsten and Daniel Horvath wowed their mum Mary with a visit to check out the floral displays.
Mary was taken to lunch at Oodies first, then her children announced a surprise saying they were off to the flower show.
“The smell here is amazing as you walk in,” Mary said.
“I’d like to expand my orchid collection, so it was a lovely surprise from the children.”
Mary wasn’t the only mother taking in the scents and sights of the beautiful flowers.
Kate Watson was treated to the afternoon out with her partner Tristan and children Scarlett, 3, and younger brother Bailey.
The family was secretly hunting for a gift for Tristan’s mother Karen.
“It’s the second time we have been and I really enjoy it,” Kate said.
Out of all the visitors to the event, one little girl seemed to enjoy it more than others.
Charlotte Straume, 11, went along with her nanny Annette Straume.
Photo: Facebook
Charlotte was born with cerebral palsy, a physical disability that affects movement and posture and speech. She made her way around the event with her nanny by her side.
“Charlotte loves the colours of the flowers,” Annette said.
“I’m part of the Bundaberg Orchid Society and we have been looking forward to this event for a long time.”
While visitors enjoyed the displays, there was some friendly but serious competition for prize honours.
The overall grand champion was a Dendrobium exhibited by John and Narelle Hoffman from the Maryborough Orchid Society.
Orchids of this type have roots that creep over the surface of trees or rocks, rarely having their roots in soil.
Up to six leaves develop in a tuft at the tip of a shoot and from one to a large number of flowers are arranged along an unbranched flowering stem.
Happy Mother's Day from the Mayor
Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey thanked the organisers, saying each year the event got better, and it was the best orchid show of all.
“A great credit must be given to all of those involved,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“The event is really special. Here in Bundaberg we have the best climate, soils and water, and also the best people.”
Mayor Dempsey said as the population aged it was important for the younger generations to take on responsibilities to improve things like orchids for the future.
This was seen by the amount of young people going through the event doors with their mum.
“It’s great to see exhibitors and suppliers here, which of course will secure orchids for the future, well done.
“And of course, a big Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers in the region.”
- Bundaberg flower farms blooming for Mother’s Day
