Quarter of a century of helping fight meningococcal disease

Quarter of a century of helping fight meningococcal disease

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Barry and Lorraine Young. Photograph – Aaron Van Rongen.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Amanda’s Garden Fete, which is held annually in October in commemoration of Barry and Lorraine Young’s daughter Amanda.

Amanda attended an Inter-varsity Rowing Regatta in Penrith in October 1997, where she tragically contracted meningococcal disease and died at the tender age of 18.

However, Amanda’s legacy lives on.

Her parents, Barry and Lorraine Young, established the Amanda Young Foundation in 1998 with the aim of reducing deaths in WA from meningococcal disease, and supporting survivors of the disease. The Foundation is also committed to supporting the development of young people into Western Australia’s future leaders.

Amanda’s Garden can be found at the junction of Margaret & Matison Streets in Southern River will open for the annual fete on the weekend of 12–13 October from 10am – 4pm.  Entry $5 and children free.

Set amongst a tranquil natural rural setting of paper barks the highlights of the garden are a mass display of Amanda Roses and numerous varieties of roses, water features including a Monet Bridge and colourful cottage garden plants.

An array of trees including the spectacular acer negundo’s, jacarandas, magnolias, flame and eucalypts provides a delightful canopy for the garden paths and large variety of cliveas, azaleas, camellia, salvias, flanders poppies, louisiana iris, forget me nots and geraniums.

A huge selection of plants and seedlings donated by local nurseries will be available for sale. A Paddy’s Market, art display, treasure hunt, sausage sizzle and Devonshire Teas with peaceful music will be added attractions.

Proceeds from Amanda’s Garden Fete go to help research into fighting meningococcal disease.

For further information visit www.amandayoungfoundation.org.au