Woolmers Estate will be transformed into a celebration of spring once again this November for the annual Festival of Roses.
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There will be more than 5000 different varieties of roses in bloom at the 19th-century estate.
A cook-off will be on show from celebrity chef Ben Milbourne.
Festival media manager Rob Fairs will sit down with special guests including Henry and Anna Terry from Tasmanian Truffles who starred in My Kitchen Rules, gardening expert Angus Stewart, and Milbourne.
Mr Fairs said he expects the celebrity chef to draw a big crowd on the day.
“People love him, they flock to see him,” he said.
“They love his cooking, but he’s also a really approachable, great guy.”
The festival will begin on Saturday, November 17 with a cocktail party in the evening, before the festival day on Sunday, November 18 from 9am to 4pm.
Over 80 stalls will showcase Tasmanian produce and crafts.
There be children’s activities, including Thomas the Train, a jumping castle, alpacas, and face painting.
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Adults may be more interested in the art exhibition, with 17 artists including Paul Becker, Mary-Anne Orchard, Muriel Sluce, and Cheyne Purdue.
Festival chairman Ian Goninon said he had a feeling this year would be the best one yet, thanks to the quality of the garden at the estate.
The rose bushes, as well as the rest of the property’s 82 hectare estate, has been carefully maintained throughout the year by hard-working volunteers.
“We’ve had 20-odd volunteers this year who have been very good,” he said.
“In previous years it’s been hard to get volunteers, but we’ve got a good base now. There’s always weeding, pruning, jobs to be done, and this year’s probably the best it’s every looked.
“We’re looking forward to seeing everything in bloom.”
Two years ago the festival was nearly rained out, but last year’s glorious sunshine encouraged 7000 people through the gates.
Festival organisers are crossing their fingers for similar weather this year.
“We’re hoping for a great day of sunshine, people can come, grab a wine, some food, sit back in a relaxing atmosphere, and stroll the gardens,” Mr Goninon said.
“It’s all spread throughout the property and there’s something for everyone.”
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