The laughter of children frolicking through blooming gardens while birds chirped happily in the trees above was the soundtrack for the 22nd annual Beautiful Gardens of Benoni tour, on January 28 and 29.
With ticket sales nearly reaching the 1 000 mark, visitors to the seven splendid gardens that formed part of the Rotary Anns of Benoni Van Ryn’s tour, were transported to mystical wonderlands scented with the aroma of colourful flowers and freshly turned soil.
With each garden showcasing its owner’s unique personality, visitors to the gardens were not only able to enjoy roaming through lush properties, but also received a glimpse into the soul of a gardener.
“Our garden is not merely an extension of our home, it is a place where we find peace,” said Tracey Coetzee, of Stokroos Street, North Villa.
“It is a privilege to be able to share our haven with our community.
“We can only hope that the serenity we find in this space touched their hearts.”
Taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air at a garden in Tempest Street, Airfield, Lynette Thornton could be found listening to the rhythmic pulse of the waterfall feeding the koi pond.
“It feels like I am on an island,” she said.
“I cannot believe we are not far from the hustle and bustle of the city because here, under the shade of the palm trees, it seems like the rat race doesn’t exist.”
Once again, ticket holders were able to feast on scrumptious cakes, tarts and other freshly prepared meals while sipping on cool refreshments at the Anns Tea Garden, which was hosted in an Asian-inspired garden, in Shorten Street, Rynfield.
“We were delighted to see how many people supported the tour, following a two-year hiatus due to Covid,” said Maria Pinho, member of the organising committee.
“We were blown away by the featured gardens and would like to thank the owners for generously opening their homes to us.”
All funds raised during the spectacular event will be used to benefit the various charity organisations supported by the Anns.
The event was made possible by the following home owners:
• Margaret Derby, Benoni
• Pieter and Juanita Pretorius, Lakefield
• Marlize and Gerhard Schwar, Morehill
• Luchan and Marianna Zeeli, Rynfield
• Wilma and Hennie Maartens, Airfield
• Helen Pollock, Northmead
• Tracey and Leon Coetzee, North Villa.
The winners of this year’s raffles are Mary Zanker, Claire Widlake, Marius Botha, Ian Goss, Paul Fourie, John Paterson, Barbara Bruggen and Carol Sneddon.
ALSO READ: Beautiful Gardens of Benoni draws a big crowd
ALSO READ: LETTER: Beautiful Gardens of Benoni event is thanks to you
