UPDATE: Wyndham Council has just announced the removal of the State Rose and Garden Show from its annual events calendar, sparking immediate backlash from the community. The beloved event, held at Werribee Park every November for the past 10 years, has been crucial for local tourism and community bonding.
Community advocate Lisa Markovic expressed her disappointment, stating, “I think it is an important event because it is something everyone can enjoy. It was popular among locals and tourists alike.” Markovic emphasized the need for better communication, adding, “When a bomb like this is dropped, it can really upset the community.”
In a recent statement, Eric Brasils, Wyndham’s planning and liveability director, explained that the decision to pause the event is part of a strategic “review and refresh” of the council’s events calendar. “This pause will allow us to reimagine the event and explore new opportunities for our community,” Brasils noted. He confirmed that the council is working closely with the volunteer group responsible for maintaining the rose garden and will continue to provide support.
Brasils also revealed that the council will grant the volunteer group an amount equivalent to what the show typically raises through donations, ensuring the garden remains open to the public year-round. “We encourage everyone to visit and enjoy it,” he said.
However, Brasils clarified that the rose garden is ultimately owned by the state government through Parks Victoria. “It is their asset, and we will continue to support them from a tourism perspective,” he stated. He urged the state government to consider new strategies to enhance the visibility and appeal of their assets.
The community’s response is overwhelmingly negative, with many residents and visitors calling for the event’s reinstatement. The sudden cancellation of such a cherished event without adequate notice has left many feeling blindsided. Markovic stressed the importance of transparency in decision-making processes, advocating for more community involvement when significant changes are proposed.
As the situation develops, community members are encouraged to voice their concerns and advocate for the return of the State Rose and Garden Show. The council’s current review process will be closely monitored by local advocates who are determined to ensure that community interests are prioritized.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and be prepared to join the conversation about the future of this beloved local tradition.
