Open garden an arty fundraiser

Kathleen and Geoffrey Ogden opened the doors of their more than 100-year-old house to guests at the weekend.

Motivated to raise money for the local Anglican Church, the couple hosted an art exhibition and “open garden”, attracting about 150 people.

Geoffrey Ogden and his wife Kathleen have lived in the house for more than 35 years and it is believed to be one of the oldest houses in Katanning.

Mr Ogden was happy to share his beloved space for a good cause.

“Any artwork that was sold, 10 per cent went to the church,” he said.

“We also had a couple of lotteries where visitors could win a painting or services donated by businesses around town.”

The two-day event featured 90 artworks painted by artists across the region including Maxine Potter, Bernard West and Katanning Primary School art teacher Angela Ohlsen.

Guests enjoyed the soothing sounds of the cello and the flute, provided by the Ogdens’ granddaughters Genevieve, 17 and Madeline, 15.

The Ogdens are fans of classical music but Mr Ogden admits it is Mrs Ogden who has the green thumb.

“Kathleen’s favourite part of the house would have to be the garden,” he said.

Mrs Ogden’s careful tending of the garden over three decades is evident through the stunning colours boasted by her rose collection.

Mr Ogden said the property also featured a variety of native plants.

“It’s a grand old place that has been kept in good condition,” he said.