There was no mistaking the fact that Darling was show-casing its flowers to the world! We followed the cars and coaches to the Sport Ground and found what we were looking for. Numerous stalls were selling locally-made fare and the main hall had a gorgeous display of the wild flowers found in the area. The hall had been divided into the different eco-systems and each was decorated with flowers endemic to that system. Careful labeling helped us to identify the different species.

The highlight of the visit was the tractor-ride to see the Oude Post wetland that can only be seen during the show. Seated on hay bales on the trailer, we were transported into an explosion of wild flowers.

The hour-long ride gave plenty of opportunity to admire the amazing diversity of species and colour just in one area. Thanks to the recent good rains there was plenty of ground water which, in particular, the arum lilies thrive on.

The setting is very pretty with the mountain backdrop and having the opportunity to be “up close and personal” with the peak of spring was real treat!

We will be back next year!

(All images by Heather Coull. All rights reserved)