RHS of NSW
ABOUT THE SOCIETY PAGE
Thomas Sheperd, a nursery man, arrived in Sydney from England in 1827. He established the first nursery and fruit garden of approx. 28 acres where the Sydney University now stands. This Garden formed the genesis of The Royal Horticultural Society.
A successful Floral and Horticultural Society exhibition was held in Sydney on the 21st September, 1838. It was a very successful show. This was followed by a second exhibition in February, 1839.
In early 1862 a few interested people decided to meet every month in some convenient place, as a means of instruction in horticultural pursuits.
In the words of one of the 'instigators'...
"Scarcely had our project been made known when we were enabled, through the ready acquiescence of those interested, to enlarge our motives by at once styling it 'The Horticultural Society of NSW', by drawing up Rules and Regulations for its guidance, and notwithstanding all the drawbacks and barriers placed in our way through the non-success of previous societies of a similar nature, we have this institution placed on a good and favourable basis".
So, THE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF NSW got under way.
With the Governor of NSW as its patron, the Royal Horticultural Society was granted its charter in 1932. In 1954 they held their first Spring Festival at Circular Quay. The Waratah Floral Festival, which became and annual event, was also held that year and continued till 1973.
As of 1st January, 2010 monthly meetings will be in recess, but the Floral Art Group continue to hold lively, well-attended monthly meetings. If you'd like to come along and enjoy a morning of flowers, great company and fun, why not join us there?
This page was updated on 21st January, 2010
