The Big Orchid Shows

Older members will remember the glory days of the regular big orchid shows in the Sydney Town Hall, Roselands Shopping Centre and other locations. The public flocked to these eagerly awaited annual events. It was the time when public interest in orchids of all types probably peaked. These annual shows were part of the scene for many years up to about the late 1980’s.

Thereafter major orchid shows were held at smaller venues in and around Sydney.

A quick search on Google for ’Orchid Shows Sydney Town Hall’ and ‘Orchid Shows Roselands’ sadly comes up with only the following hit dated 10 September 1952.

100,000 Blooms at Town Hall Orchid Show

More than 1,000 people yesterday attended the opening of the NSW Orchid Society’s Festival at the Sydney Town Hall.

About 100,000 blooms ranging from native Australian varieties to hot-house exotics drooped over tables, the stage and against painted back-drops, making the air heavy with scent.

The blooms, valued at 50,000 pounds will be protected at night by armed guard.

The Lord Mayor of Sydney, Ald. E.C. O’Dea who opened the show said that orchid growing had become a vital dollar earner for Australia.

“Although there are about 3,000 orchid plants in the show today with about 100,000 blooms, many are being sent to America each year to earn vital dollars.” Ald.O’Dea said.

The festival will be open from 10 a.m. until 9.30 p.m. daily, till its close on Friday

night.

(Sydney Morning Herald, 10 Sept. 1952 p.2, viewed 5 June 2018, https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/18280999 - Ed.)

No doubt many members will have their own fond memories of these shows. The author would be most interested in receiving any comments, recollections, articles and photos that may be used in future newsletters. Please email such information to: Graeme Russell email: rustyruss9@gmail.com.