A PENOLA resident proved a cut above in the spring show’s rose contest, sweeping the competition to claim both the grand champion and runner-up accolades.
Meredith Hinze stole the show with her ‘Tinkerbell’ roses, which stood out from a strong line of entries.
Ms Hinze said she had always enjoyed light-coloured roses and decided to enter this year’s competition.
Having won two grand champion rose titles in previous years, Ms Hinze has a long history with the competition spanning 15 years.
“I love spending time in the garden and doing things like preparing the soil and pruning,” Mr Hinze said.
“I also enjoy bringing them up to the stage and presenting my work.
“I think that is one of the best parts.”
Ms Hinze has lived on her property for almost two decades and has worked on her garden for around 15 years.
When preparing her work for exhibition on the eve of the show, Ms Hinze said she was not expecting to secure the two prizes.
“You never know if you will win or not because it all comes down to how the roses look on the day,” she said.
“Some days you win and some days you do not which is the nature of the competition.”
Encouraging people to enter in the future, Ms Hinze suggested those new to the competition should follow a steward around and learn as they go.
“It is a great way to get some tips and find out how to present the roses which is important,” Ms Hinze said.
“Once you get the know-how then you are confident enough to have a go and once you start winning you begin to get excited.”
