Step Inside the Canberra Autumn Flower Show! Dahlia Expert, Graeme Davis Explains a few Exhibition Classes

Step Inside the Canberra Autumn Flower Show! Dahlia Expert, Graeme Davis Explains a few Exhibition Classes
Graeme Davis Pt1 Dahlia Championship Categories at Canberra Autumn Flower Show BLOG Feature ImageDahlias, roses, orchids and an explosion of colour—Canberra’s Autumn Flower Show is a must-see for every flower lover! Hosted by the Horticultural Society of Canberra, this annual showcase of blooms, floral artistry, and horticultural excellence is typically held early March. 

We had the pleasure of filming a walk around with the famous Graeme Davis - dahlia breeder, champion exhibitor, head judge and stalwart committee member of various societies including being President of the Dahlia Society of Australia from 2024.

👉 Watch the video below where Graeme walks us through a few dahlia exhibition categories at the 2024 show and who’s been winning and how! What you will see

  • The different exhibition classes
  • The stunning winning blooms from 2024, including Grand Champion ‘Clearview Edie’
  • The scale and variety of dahlias exhibited at the event
Watch This Video

Dahlia Championship Highlights

The Dahlia Championship at the Canberra Autumn Flower Show is one of the biggest dahlia competitions in Australia, attracting top growers and stunning entries. In 2024, the Grand Champion dahlia was won by Deb Collett with ‘Clearview Edie’, while ‘Hamari Gold’ secured the Reserve Champion spot.

Dahlias & Winners of Canberra Autumn Flower Show 24Dahlia exhibitors will once again compete for prestigious awards in several championship classes, including:
  • ACT Open Dahlia Championship (Class 1) – Featuring 9 vases of distinct varieties
  • Small Growers Championship (Class 2) – Showcasing 6 vases of dahlias, at least 4 types
  • Large Dahlia Bonanza – A showcase of 6 vases of distinct giant dahlias over 160mm & at least 2 over 210mm
  • Special 9 – Featuring 9 distinct blooms, one per vase

👉View the full show schedule & prize details here: Canberra Autumn Flower Show 2025 Schedule

Beyond Dahlias – What Else is on Show?

Dahlias are not the only stars of the Canberra Autumn Flower Show, it also features a wide variety of floral and horticultural exhibits, including:

🌹 Roses – A stunning collection of heritage and modern varieties
🌺 Orchids – Elegant blooms in breath-taking arrangements
🌼 Cut Flowers & Floral Art – Beautifully curated displays
🌿 Potted Plants & Vegetables – Showcasing homegrown excellence

Whether you're an avid exhibitor, a flower enthusiast, or just looking for gardening inspiration, this event has something for everyone!

🔗 Learn More Here

More Dahlia Shows Coming Up!

The Canberra Autumn Flower Show is just the start of an exciting dahlia season! Upcoming Major Shows...

NSW & ACT State Championship in Cooma – March 7th-8th, 2025:
📍 Cooma Show Info
📄 Entry Details

📅 See the Full List of 2025 Shows Here:
🔗 Dahlia Society of NSW & ACT Show Calendar
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