SCORES of roses are in the running for a $500 prize for the most outstanding rose at this weekend’s 143rd Millicent Show.
It is the 10th consecutive year Millicent’s McCourt’s Garden Centre has made a $500 voucher available.
Proprietor Christine Agnew said the garden centre sponsorship was a way of supporting the town of Millicent and its show.
“The champion rose award also encourages more people to grow roses,” Ms Agnew said.
“Millicent has some of the best roses around due to our rainfall, soil and underground water.
“I know the judges look for shape and form in the winning rose as well as fragrance and a long vase life.
“I have noticed a change in demand for roses in the 21 years I have been in the shop.
“Every generation coming through is looking for something new and they are choosing to grow hybrid tea roses.
“They have long stems and are suitable for cutting.
“There is still demand for the old-fashioned roses.”
Meanwhile, all is going well for the 143rd show which starts Friday.
The show office is open every day this week for last minute enquiries while carnival workers are taking up temporary residence in sideshow alley.
The members of the Showmen’s Guild did a brisk trade with their amusement rides at the weekend’s Penola Show.
