Woodbridge at Mandoon is hosting event as part of the Guildford Open Gardens Festival, with part proceeds going to the maintenance and upkeep of the heritage gardens. Proudly sponsored by Open Gardens WA, The Guildford Association and the National Trust of Western Australia.

Sophie Thomson is an Australian gardening expert, media personality, author, and environmentalist. With over 35 years of hands-on gardening experience, she is renowned for her passion, humour, and down-to-earth advice. Sophie is committed to showing how gardening can improve our wellbeing, strengthen communities, and care for the environment.

Workshop 1.

No time to water your garden - no problem!
Come along and enjoy this opportunity to learn how to create and maintain your own water-efficient wicking bed in this practical and interactive workshop with renowned gardening expert Sophie Thomson & Joshua van Helsdingen, sponsored by Open Gardens WA.

This session covers:

🌿 The benefits and science behind wicking beds

📐 Design principles and material requirements

🔨 Construction methods, demonstrated step by step

🪴 Best soil mixes and plant selections for success

💧 Ongoing maintenance, including water management, soil health, and pest control

With Sophie & Josh’s guidance, you’ll gain both the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to build a thriving wicking bed at home.
(Enjoy an extended question time with Josh after the end of the event.)

*Discounted price $25 with codes provided to Members & Volunteers

Workshop 2.

Join gardening personality Sophie Thomson and our local expert Sue Crosse for a hands-on workshop all about propagation – the art and science of multiplying your plants.

In this interactive session, they will cover:

🌱 Different propagation techniques – cuttings, division, layering & more

🌱 Choosing the right plants and timing

🌱 Tools, equipment & growing mediums

🌱 Tips for strong, healthy root growth

🌱 Ongoing care for young plants

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to grow your garden for less cost!

*Discounted price $25 with codes provided to Members & Volunteers

Talk 3.

How to Future-Proof Your Garden Against Climate Extremes, Pests, and Changing Seasons

Join Sophie Thomson, much-loved presenter on ABC TV’s Gardening Australia, writer, broadcaster, and inspirational speaker, as she shares practical strategies for building a resilient garden in uncertain times. From heatwaves to water shortages, unpredictable weather, and new pest challenges, Sophie will show you how to create a garden that not only survives but thrives.

Protect your garden from climate extremes
Improve soil health and water efficiency
Select plants for resilience
Manage pests and diseases sustainably
Adapt to shifting seasons with confidence

*Discounted price $20 with codes provided to Members & Volunteers