Member for Frome Geoff Brock, who had judged the gardens earlier that week, returned to give out prizes to the first, second and third place-getters in four categories.

He added generous gift vouchers, that he had purchased from Brinkworth businesses, to the tally of prizes donated by businesses in Clare (Clare Valley Flowers, Pinks Mitre 10 and Clare Home Hardware), Watervale (Morella Cottage Nursery) and Blyth (Medika Gallery).

Brinkworth and Districts branch of the Australian Plants Society sponsored a new category this year, for a garden featuring native plants.

Mr Brock had taken copious notes and photographs on his earlier inspection, and with each award, explained how he had made his decision.

The Youth Art Competition for a picture of “A Magpie”, while not attracting any teenage entries, was well supported by 31 younger children, encouraged by staff of Brinkworth Primary School.

The competition was suggested by Brinkworth resident Peter Searle – a professional artist – and he and his friend since their schooldays, Bob Hurndell, of Maroobra, NSW, jointly donated the cash prizes for the competition.

Credit was given for originality and imagination in the interpretation of the subject.

Mr Searle, who moved to Brinkworth two years ago, commented on the high standard of all entries, making choosing of winners difficult. “There is some outstanding young talent here in Brinkworth,” he said, “Brinkworth may be small, but the artistic talent pool is huge.”

The “evening in the park” concluded with sampling of home made birthday cake and viewing of a colourful and informative display, provided by members of the Brinkworth and Districts branch of the Australian Plants Society, of native plants growing in local gardens.