Annual Rose Pruning Event at Peace Park Set for July 13, 2025

On July 13, 2025, Peace Park in Kiama will host its annual rose pruning event, welcoming local gardeners and community members to participate in the rejuvenation of the park's rose beds. The event, organized by the Friends of Peace Park in collaboration with the Illawarra Rose Society and the Kiama Garden Club, is set to commence at 9:30 AM.

Colin Hollis, the coordinator of Peace Park, emphasized the importance of pruning as a horticultural practice, stating, “What you are doing when you are pruning your rose, you are rejuvenating it.” Pruning not only enhances the health and aesthetics of the roses but also serves as an educational opportunity for novice gardeners who may have reservations about the process.

Hollis, who has years of experience in horticulture, encourages community members to engage in the hands-on learning experience. “We encourage people to do a bit of pruning themselves, because that is the way you learn,” Hollis noted. His insights highlight the psychological barriers many gardeners face, as he described pruning as “the greatest fear of many gardeners.”

The event will provide demonstrations led by Hollis and experienced members of the Illawarra Rose Society, where participants are invited to bring their own pruning tools, such as secateurs. The objective is to prepare the park for the upcoming blooming season, which typically lasts from September to March. Hollis praised the Golden Beauty garden bed, stating, “It really is great,” as it transforms into a vibrant display of golden blooms during the peak season.

Peace Park, which was once a vacant lot, has a rich history rooted in community advocacy. Winsome Barker, a visionary from Kiama, played a pivotal role in its development as a rose garden. Hollis recounted how Barker initiated the project by proposing to the Illawarra Rose Society the idea of creating a rose garden in the park. An agreement was subsequently established with the Kiama Council, allowing volunteers to maintain the roses while the Council managed the grass cutting.

Despite the collaborative efforts, Hollis expressed frustration regarding the financial aspects of the park's development. He revealed that while bricks sold for commemorative purposes contribute to the park's upkeep, the funds are reportedly consumed by the Council’s expenses related to their preparation and installation. A spokesperson from the Council clarified that the costs associated with selling the Peace Park pavers—set at $120 each—far exceed the revenue generated, which has caused ongoing tension between the volunteers and the local government.

The Illawarra Rose Society meets weekly at Peace Park every Tuesday at 9:30 AM, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for gardening. This annual event not only serves as a practical guide for rose care but also strengthens community bonds and enhances the local environment.

In conclusion, the annual rose pruning event at Peace Park exemplifies the importance of community involvement in horticultural practices, highlighting the delicate balance between volunteer efforts and local government support. As gardeners prepare for another blooming season, the event promises to be an educational experience, bridging the gap between seasoned veterans and aspiring gardeners alike.