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AUSTRALIAN RHODODENRON SOCIETY (ARVS) AUSTRALIAN RHODODENRON SOCIETY (ARSV) AUSTRALIAN RHODODENRON SOCIETY (ARVS)

About the Australian Rhododendron Society

Founded in 1960 by a dedicated group of enthusiasts from the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society, the Australian Rhododendron Society (ARS) Victoria was established to foster a community of people passionate about the genus Rhododendron.

Our mission is simple: to encourage interest, share specialized knowledge, and provide a collaborative space for gardeners, botanists, and hobbyists to connect and grow together.

A Living Legacy in the Dandenong Ranges

Our history is deeply rooted in the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden (DRBG) in Olinda. Since 1960, our members have curated and maintained a world-class collection that serves as a vital repository for both Asiatic and Melanesian species and hybrids.

Because we manage a collection that includes many species no longer available for import into Australia, our work in the gardens is essential for botanical conservation and the protection of these spectacular plants for future generations.

Why Join ARS Victoria?

Whether you are a seasoned horticulturist or a home gardener looking to expand your collection, membership offers a wealth of benefits:

  • Expert Knowledge: Gain access to decades of collective experience regarding which species and hybrids thrive in Australia’s diverse climatic conditions.

  • Exclusive Plant Access: Members have first access to plants propagated by the Society, including rare species not found in commercial nurseries.

  • Community & Connection: Join a group of like-minded individuals dedicated to the study and appreciation of the genus Rhododendron.

Become a Volunteer

The heart of our society is our volunteer group, which meets every Tuesday at the ARS Club Room at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens (Georgian Rd, Olinda, Victoria).

We warmly welcome new members to roll up their sleeves and get involved. Whether you are interested in hands-on gardening, propagation, or garden administration, there is a place for you here. It is a wonderful way to learn new skills while contributing to one of Victoria’s most beautiful public assets.

ARS Committee 2026

OFFICE BEARERS

President : Andrew Rouse (VIC) – andrew@rouse-griffith.com.au

Vice President : John O’Hara (VIC) – johnohara@optusnet.com.au

Secretary : Emma Moysey (VIC) – vicrhodo@gmail.com

Treasurer : Prue Crome (VIC) – prue@crome.net.au

KEY TEAM MEMBERS

Plant Sales – from the ARS : Alex Pottage (VIC) : niceplants53@gmail.com

Registrar : Peter Grose (VIC) – pgrose@bigpond.com

Membership/Newsletters : Richard Florey (VIC) – richarddflorey@outlook.com

Website/Social Media : James Pethybridge (VIC) – james@blackwoodridge.com.au

Branch and Local Contacts

Andrew Rouse (Australian Rhododendron Society : Victoria ) – andrew@rouse-griffith.com.au

Robert Hatcher (South Australian Rhododendron Society) – hatcherhouse@internode.on.net

Ant Dry (TAS Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden) – antdry@bigpond.com

Bruce Christie (Illawarra NSW) – president@irrg.au

President Tamborine Mt Bot Gardens (QLD) – president@tmbotanicgardens.org.au

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