The sun was shining and smiles were beaming at REDHS inaugural Yalukang Aged Care Rose Show last Wednesday. Organised by two of the REDHS Lifestyle team, Fiona Ferrinda and Karen Tognolini, the show fielded over 20 entries from residents and staff.

Judging was held at a special ‘rose ceremony’ where residents gathered in the gardens of the Hostel. The judging team was made up of REDHS Hostel residents and roses were judged across five categories including Largest Bloom, Most Fragrant, Most Vibrant Colour, Prettiest Bloom and Residents’ Choice.

Activities Coordinator Fiona Ferrinda said residents took the judging ‘very seriously’, taking time to deliberate over the entries and enjoying their perfumed fragrances.

 “We’ve come out of a long winter, in more ways than one. It was a delight to see the smiles on so many faces,” Ms Ferrinda said.

“For the residents to come together and enjoy the stunning florals, it was very much about creating a happy experience. Thanks to Nicole Hickey, who entertained residents by dressing up in a beautiful rose costume, and also to Sunny Cao for assisting in event preparations.

REDHS Garden and Maintenance Officer, Judith Olney, said she was delighted to receive the Residents’ Choice Award on behalf of the team. Residents had, in fact, selected many roses from the grounds to enter the competition.

“We’re thrilled to win the Residents Choice Award,” Ms Olney said. “Our team works on the garden year-round and it’s wonderful to know the flowers bring them joy,” she said.

Winners: Stuart Carnie (resident), Cathy Brown (resident) Judy Bush (resident), Lifestyle Team (Karen’s Garden), Brett, Judy & Chris From REDHS garden & maintenance team.