By Irene Ingold
Springtime 2026 was a joyful celebration, bringing residents and visitors together to wander through inspiring gardens and delight in the beauty of our lush plateau.
Garden owners greeted visitors with friendly smiles, proudly sharing the interesting diversity of this year’s gardens.
They welcomed guests from across Queensland and Northern New South Wales, many making a day trip or weekend of it.
Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp officially opened the event at the tranquil gardens of Belicia, setting the scene for a wonderful celebration of our community, gardens and generous hosts.
This event simply could not happen without the support of many volunteers.
More than seventy Garden Club members were rostered across the three days, taking on roles from book sellers and bus conductors to gate attendants.
St George’s Anglican Church tempted visitors with its much-loved Devonshire teas, while the Showground Society provided refreshments, parking and hop-on bus transfers.
Landcare created a welcoming picnic spot and the Botanic Gardens volunteers drew plant lovers with their famous plant sale, while sausages sizzled merrily on the grill.
Music added to the atmosphere, with Kevin Warburton at Belicia, seven-year-old Jessica and the Gospel Choir captivating on Saturday, SJ’s flute enchanting at Wilmont and Bella A ‘Capella’s harmonies delighting visitors at Adamah.
The garden owners are volunteers too, giving months of preparation before warmly welcoming and chatting with visitors each day.
Their enthusiasm says it all – some have already volunteered to return in 2030!
Memories were made – newlyweds honeymooning from Cairns delighted in the gardens, while little visitors arrived at cafés on Monday clutching their new Teddy Bears Picnic friends, Blueberry and Uni.
The Gospel Choir’s beautiful rendition of The Shining Years captured the spirit of Tamborine Mountain, touching hearts and reminding us how fortunate we are to call this special place home – especially the children growing up here.
While Meredith Plant and Tegan Evans composed this song for a different purpose, it resonated with many.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make Springtime 2026 so special.
We can’t wait to welcome you back for more gardens, community and springtime magic in 2027!
Mark your calendars: September 24 – 26, 2027 — we’ll see you there!
