What an excellent exhibition the Central Coast Bonsai Club staged in March- a weekend crammed with great demonstrations, terrific vendors and a such a warm, friendly atmosphere that lifted the whole event. Congratulations to the committee on realising such a great outcome!
The Bonsai Open was a triumph, showcasing exceptional bonsai across every class: Open, Australian Native, Shohin, Penjing, Creative, People’s Choice and the Mingarra Recreation Club Award. From the enormous to the tiny (comparatively), there was something for everyone and the club display did not disappoint either. Congratulations to all the winners and all those who displayed their trees.
Of the many stellar trees, here are The Open prize winners.
First place, Open category, Michael Hood’s ‘Giant Cedar Forest’. The photo doesn’t covey the size of this overwhelming display. Magnificent on every level.
Ric Roberts won second place in the Open category with a wonderful old Koreshoff red pine. Planted 1951, this venerable old tree is part of Australian history.
Michael Kempson took out the best Australian Native Display with this beautiful Kunzea ambigua paired with a lilly pilly. A very thoughtful composition and well deserved winner.
Sean Hood took out the Shohin or Mini award with this elegant display.
Both the Penjing and Creative awards were new to The Open this year and both categories attracted many entries.
Allan Harding’s Penjing Chinese elm impressed the judges with its understated refinement. An excellent example of harmonious line and movement.
The Creative category was won by Trish Armstrong with rising dragon juniper; a pleasing display in all elements.
The People’s Choice Award went to another exceptional bonsai. Dave McKeon’s wonderful privet raft was a well deserved winner. To give some idea of size, this display was grown on a door for many years. A mammoth effort on every level.
Bruce King’s Himalayan juniper was chosen by the Mingara Recreation Club for their award.
