Strange oases amid arid landscape

It was time for trowels and hoses to be put down at the weekend – judging for the Care for Hedland Environmental Association’s Great Gardens Competition had begun.

The discerning judges were busy viewing gardens in South Hedland, Port Hedland and Wedgefield – searching tirelessly for the best garden in a range of categories.

The entries in South Hedland proved one should never guess at what lies behind a 12 foot corrugated iron security fence.

Judges discovered some truly remarkable lush paradises which belied their dry and dusty exteriors.

The gardens were plentiful and varied – one dotted with foxtail palms and succulents – another dominated by desert roses of all shapes and shades.

Almost every garden viewed in South Hedland featured a vegetable patch of some description, judges marvelled over passionfruit vines, pumpkin patches, lemon trees and tomato bushes.

There was an abundance of fresh produce on display proving that with a little tender love and care one can grow almost anything, even in a semi-arid climate.

Judges heard the sad tale of one BHP Billiton employee who was runner-up in the grand champion category two years ago.

After working tirelessly to create her dream garden she vacated the premises and was told to return the house to its “original condition”.

She described the experience of ripping out her former garden, which was dominated by palms and greenery, as “heartbreaking”.

But her love of gardening prevailed – she entered this year’s competition under the waterwise category with a hydroponic set up full to bursting with capsicums, jalapenos, coriander and eggplants.

Hedland Home Hardware garden centre co-ordinator and competition judge Belinda Walsh said the experience of adjudicating was fantastic.

“All the gardens were extremely impressive in their own way,” she said.

“It was great to meet so many people who are passionate about gardening.”

Winners of the Hedland Great Garden Awards will be announced on stage at the Spinifex Spree on Saturday at 11.30am.