Presidentual Welcome Letter

Dear IGCA Members

‘How time flies when you’re having fun’. That is certainly true when each year the prospect of yet another exciting and different IGCA Congress helps the weeks leading up to the event rush by.

As I write this, in September 2010, we are about to hold our first Congress in Japan, and I know that over 180 of us from 17 different countries will experience hospitality, traditions and garden retailing that are so different from the ‘westernised’ norm, but that will richly reward those with a willingness to learn and eagerness to grasp progress.

In September 2011, in Italy we will face another ‘First’ in a unique region of a country that has not been a member of IGCA for some years. A shorter visit than normal, but with the opportunity to add a day at the prestigious Flormart Exhibition in Padua, and of course the whole area provides great opportunities for some private relaxation and Venice is just a few hours away.

I am very excited by the prospect of a completely different and refreshing style of Congress, organised by Martina Schullian and Silvano Girelli and there enthusiastic committee. As newcomers they are unencumbered by historic constraints, but are determined to give us a congress to remember. Numbers will be limited for both the main congress and the more intensive study tour, so I would urge you to book early.

The Südtirol has seen turbulent times over the centuries and now has both German and Italian speaking inhabitants. The garden centres are small and stylish, close to delightful towns and villages nestling in the valley with a unique climate dominated by the wonderful Dolomite mountains. In contrast further south around the beautiful Lake Garda and close to Verona there are some very large and impressive centres. Be assured that we can learn something from all of them.

Our base in delightful Bozen (Bolzano) is home to the World famous ‘Ice man’ but I know our reception will be warm and welcoming.

I look forward to seeing you there,

Sue Allen