I was spoilt for choice with the 8 gardens open at Galston this year, but I think I would probably say that ‘Tanglewood’ in Kenthurst was my favourite.  Sophisticated plantings, both formal and informal, with wonderfully thought out colour combinations made this something quite special.  The amazing cactus garden at ‘Reverie’ in Dural was also something quite unique and the roses at ‘Glenroy Park’ were quite breathtaking.  Also of note was the very creative use of natives at ‘Crundale’ – grevilleas used in standard and weeping forms to create effects usually seen in exotic gardens.  I would love to go back here in a few years when the plants are that much larger.  Finally, ‘Elegans’ in Galston.  A lifetime of love has been put into this garden, created from nothing by Bill Fleming.  The before photos of a paddock are enough to inspire anyone to start gardening when you see the thousands and thousands of plants that make up this huge garden where you could get lost for hours.  A very talented man.  My other favourite moment of the day was seeing an echidna as I walked up the long drive of ‘Kailynd’ in Dural – how very sweet they are!