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The Hawkesbury Orchid Society’s annual general meeting has highlighted the enduring passion, generosity and community spirit that continues to underpin one of the region’s most dedicated plant groups.
Held at the North Richmond Community Centre, members gathered not just to attend to society business, but to share decades of collective knowledge, experience and a genuine love for orchids, one of the most diverse plant families on earth, with more than 30,000 known species worldwide.
A significant milestone of the evening was the acknowledgement of Warwick Seinfeld, who marked an extraordinary 17 years as president of the Hawkesbury Orchid Society. Mr Seinfield, who also serves as captain of the Mount Lagoon Rural Fire Brigade, and Deputy Chairman of Kurrajong Heights Bowling and Recreation Club was praised for his long-standing leadership, commitment and steady guidance of the society through nearly two decades of growth and change.
The society operates under the parent organisation Orchids NSW and continues to play an active role in promoting orchid conservation, cultivation and education across the Hawkesbury.
One of the more heartfelt moments of the evening came when members acknowledged the generosity of a long-time grower who, no longer able to care for their extensive orchid collection, donated plants to the society. The orchids will be used as raffle prizes, ensuring the plants continue to be cherished while helping support the society’s activities.
Life membership was awarded to Danielle Rambourg by Cr Mary Buckett Lyons on behalf of the Mayor Les Sheather in recognition of her outstanding contribution and dedication to the society.
Ms Rambourg said the award reflected the strong bonds formed through a shared passion for plants.
“The Hawkesbury Orchid Society is more than just growing orchids — it’s about friendship, learning from one another and supporting each other,” she said.
“There’s a real sense of camaraderie here. Everyone is willing to share their successes, their failures and their love for these incredible plants.”
She also spoke about the joy of discovering orchids in unexpected places.
“People are often surprised to learn we even have native orchids growing out west, including species that flower around May,” Ms Rambourg said.
“Once you start noticing them, you realise orchids are everywhere — they’re just quietly spectacular.”
The society’s strong social focus was also highlighted, with regular outings, shows and visits to gardens and growers helping foster lasting friendships alongside horticultural knowledge.
The meeting concluded with a guest presentation by award-winning orchid grower Joe Gafa, who shared practical tips and insights from his years of experience. His talk offered guidance on caring for orchids in local conditions, helping members better understand how to nurture what many affectionately describe as their “loved plants”.
The Mayor of Hawkesbury continues to serve as patron of the society, reinforcing its valued place within the broader community.
With growing membership and an enduring enthusiasm for one of nature’s most fascinating plant families, the Hawkesbury Orchid Society looks set to continue flourishing well into the future.
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