BREAKING: Wyndham Council has just announced the cancellation of the State Rose and Garden Show, a beloved event held annually at Werribee Park for the past 10 years. This sudden decision has sparked significant backlash from the community, as advocates argue that the show plays a crucial role in local tourism and inclusivity.
Community advocate Lisa Markovic expressed her confusion and disappointment, stating, “This is an important event that everyone can enjoy—popular among both locals and tourists.” She emphasized that the community overwhelmingly supports the show, underscoring its positive impact on the region’s tourism.
In a statement, Eric Brasils, Wyndham’s planning and liveability director, confirmed that the event will undergo a “pause” as part of a broader “review and refresh” of the council’s events calendar. “This pause will allow us to reimagine the event and explore new opportunities for our community,” Brasils explained. He reassured the public that the council will continue to support the dedicated volunteer group that maintains the rose garden.
Despite the cancellation, Brasils noted that the garden remains open to the public year-round. “We encourage everyone to visit and enjoy it,” he said, while also revealing that the council will provide a grant equivalent to what the show would typically generate through donations.
However, Markovic criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the decision. “When a bomb like this is dropped, it can really upset the community,” she said, calling for advance notice before the cancellation of cherished events.
The garden is owned by the state government through Parks Victoria, which could also influence future events. “It is their asset, and we will continue to support them from a tourism perspective,” Brasils added. He urged the state government to explore new ways to promote the garden and increase its visibility to the public.
As the community grapples with this decision, many are left wondering what the future holds for the State Rose and Garden Show. Local advocates are calling for immediate dialogue with the council to ensure that community voices are heard in upcoming decisions.
This breaking news continues to develop, and the community’s response will likely shape the future of this cherished event. Stay tuned for further updates as officials work to clarify their plans and address community concerns.
