Stormy forecasts didn't stop about 20 Maroondah members from having a lovely time enjoying Marilyn and Geoff's beautiful garden, and enjoying each other's company. Thank you to Marilyn and Geoff for their generous hospitality, including welcoming us into the house as the temperature dropped.

We had a lovely visit to the wonderful garden, Eungella, in September. Our group included some interstate and overseas visitors who were in Melbourne for the ANPSA Conference. If you missed seeing Eungella, you may like to see it as part of the Open Gardens Scheme Victoria on the weekend of 2nd and 3rd November. You can book through the Open Gardens Victoria website or just turn up and pay at the gate.

An enthusiastic group of 13 members turned up on what was forecast to be a cold and wet afternoon to enjoy Helen's garden. In fact, the rain stayed away until we were driving home, the actual afternoon having been delightfully sunny and pleasant. Since our garden visit, Helen has advised that she had meant to tell people that they are always welcome to cuttings - just in case anyone wants to come back some time and collect some. Thank you Helen for a lovely afternoon.

There was a lot in flower, including some stunning grevilleas and acacias, and one Acacia elata that towers over the eucalypts. In the background was a 20 year old flowering Stenocarpus sinuatus. The Wightman's live on the Domain Estate, covered by a home owners' association. One of their rules is that no cats are allowed. Unfortunately though for them, rabbits present a major challenge to control. The home will be up for sale shortly. Thank you for hosting our group Caryl and Doug, and for the super afternoon tea with delicious cheese scones.

APS Mornington Peninsula member Ross Shepherd kindly showed us around the very impressive arboretum which he has set up over the last 2 years. Most of the many banksia species are thriving.

Over 50 of our members accepted APS Maroondah's invita?on to join together for a social get-together at Kuranga Nursery on a Monday a?ernoon. It was particularly pleasing to see a number of members we haven't caught up with for quite a few years. Everyone seemed to have a great time. Also, many wonderful native plants appeared to find their way to new homes.

It was delightul to have our first visit to Graham and Li O'Neill's garden in Heathmont. It was partcularly good to catch up with Graham's parents, Bob and Dot O'Neill, who are long-time APS members. Thanks to Graham's aunt for supplying some lovely scones for our afternoon tea.

Many thanks to Sue for allowing our group to visit her 'Trust for Nature' property at Yellingbo. A lovely piece of bush which she has protected and is working to enhance.