Green thumbs at AVID Property Group's Harvest and Waterford communities stood up to be judged on the weekend in their inaugural garden competition.
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Keen gardeners have battled for glory over six weeks, across four categories.
Maitland mayor Loretta Baker, a keen gardener herself, was judge along with Zoe Lyons from RPS Landscaping at the Waterford Sales and Information centre.
Winners included:
1. The Dart Family, grand champion for best best overall garden. Prize: $1000 travel voucher from Greenhills Travel Centre;
2. The Wilson Family, champion lawn. Prize: $500 Bunnings Warehouse voucher;
3. The Harris Family, Miracle Worker - for most improved garden. Prize: $500 Bunnings Warehouse voucher;
4. The Scholz Family, Little Green Thumb - best gardener under 13 years. Prize: Worm Farm valued at $100.
Cr Baker said being involved in the competition as an adjudicator gave her a great opportunity to chat with residents in the communities about their designs and creative approach.
"I was looking for gardens that complimented the entrant's home, that attracted native birdlife and that celebrated their passion," Cr Baker said.
"We have had ten years of rapid growth and that has resulted in a subsequent loss of trees and vegetation.
"It is important and heartening to see gardens maturing in our more recent subdivisions.
"I hope to see the creation of more garden suburbs.
"They are positive for our health and for the environment."