South Australian Iris Society Annual Show

Welcome to the South Australian Iris Society Annual Show! We are delighted to have you join us for a day celebrating the beauty, diversity, and artistry of irises. Whether you're a long-time iris enthusiast, an avid gardener, or simply looking for an enjoyable day out, there's something for everyone. Explore stunning award-winning blooms, browse plants and floral displays, enjoy guest presentations, create your own bouquet, and take part in our family-friendly activities. Thank you for supporting our society and helping us share the joy of growing and appreciating these remarkable flowers. We hope you have a wonderful day!

After working in finance for many years, a tree change in 2005 saw me studying horticulture to follow a passion for nature I’ve always had. I then started an apprenticeship with The Botanic Gardens of SA in 2006 and here I am twenty plus years later. I'm currently a Senior Horticultural Curator responsible for the International Rose Garden and the First Creek Wetland among other areas. Today I will be covering the Iris Discovery Walk in addition to the history of roses in the Botanical Gardens over our 170 years of existence.

Would you like to learn more about Louisiana Iris? Where they come from, geographically and botanically? Progression from native species to modern day hybrids? What’s available now? Peter and Pam Jackson’s talk on Louisiana iris will cover these topics and more. They will discuss growing conditions and availability, and answer any questions you have.

Join us as we recognise the outstanding exhibits from this year's Annual Show. Awards and trophies will be presented to exhibitors whose blooms have been judged the finest across a range of classes, celebrating excellence in iris growing and exhibition.

Members of Basketry SA Inc. are part of a worldwide community, which continues to practise and promote the ancient, sustainable art and craft of basketmaking, using natural and locally grown plant fibres. The art of Basketmaking and weaving in its many forms, is the earliest craft form known to man, even preceding clay and pottery work. The long, strong fibres contained in a myriad of grasses and plants, when twisted for increased strength, become extremely useful for the making of cordage and rope, the beginnings of survival skills. Then, globally and more or less simultaneously, indigenous peoples everywhere used the plant materials immediately available to them, for the construction of utilitarian and decorative items for daily use and trade. Thus, community groups working alone or collaboratively, began a practice of working together that continues today.

Quilts From the Garden: A showcase of nature-inspired work by South Australian-connected art quilters. A mix of established and emerging artists, they have exhibited both nationally and internationally, winning numerous awards along the way. The exhibition will include iris-inspired quilts not previously exhibited in Australia. Ann Head will give a presentation highlighting the inspiration and techniques behind some of the quilts on display. Artists featured: Julie Haddrick, Zara Zannettino, Julia Arden, Raelene Draheim and Ann Head.

Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging and is recognised as a living art form. Deeply symbolic, it involves spiritual contemplation and focuses on the beauty of nature, as well as seasonal awareness. In Japan, ikebana has a long-established history, and today numerous schools of ikebana exist around the world. Ikebana International as an organisation was established in 1956 to foster understanding and friendship though flowers across the globe. In Adelaide our Ikebana International Chapter 61 has been actively involved in exhibitions in South Australia since 1962. Members of Ikebana International Adelaide Chapter 61 will provide an informative talk that accompanies a live demonstration of several differing ikebana arrangements. Watch as floral and branch material combines to highlight the beauty of irises and learn how ikebana harmonises and complements the natural world. Additionally, please take the time to admire the use of irises in the many varied ikebana arrangements featured in the display on the stage.

Have your say! Throughout the day, visitors can vote for their favourite iris display. At the conclusion of voting, we'll announce the People's Choice Award winner, the exhibit that captured the hearts of our visitors.

Don't miss the exciting conclusion to our raffle! Join us as we draw the lucky winners of our fantastic prizes. Be sure to have your raffle tickets ready, you must be present to claim your prize unless otherwise advised.

As the Annual Show comes to an end, we'll take a moment to thank everyone who contributed to another wonderful celebration of irises and wish our visitors a safe journey home.