This excitement will ‘’boil over’’ on the weekend, with the Camellias Illawarra president expecting a big show turnout at The Illawarra Grammar School (TIGS) on Saturday and Sunday.

’’This is the longest running and oldest camellia show in Australia with exhibitors coming from as far away as Sydney, Bowral and the Shoalhaven,’’ Mr Walker said.

‘’We expect to see some 2000 blooms in reds, pinks, whites and variegated and possibly the rare yellow camellia

‘’For the first time this year we have included a special class for a basket containing no less than seven camellias and we are hoping to see some amazing exhibits.’’

The event also has a class for other garden clubs, schools, public gardens and other organisations.

Members of the public are also invited to show their blooms and there will be camellia plants for sale as well as afternoon tea.

‘’We’ve been very fortunate this year as there’s been very few south-westerly winds. I’m looking forward to a big show,’’ Mr Walker said.

The show on July 15-16 runs from 9.30am to 4pm. 

Camellias Illawarra will also hold its 19th Reticulata Show on August 12 from 11am at Bulli Uniting Church.