The Bonsai Society of Sydney was formed in 1999 by a small group of Megumi Bennett’s bonsai students, and was then known as Megumi’s Bonsai Kai. In 2001, the group held its first public exhibition, and in 2002 became a member of the Association of Australian Bonsai Clubs (AABC) and the Bonsai Federation of Australia (BFA). Membership continued to grow and the name no longer seemed appropriate. In 2004, after much thought and discussion, the group become The Bonsai Society of Sydney Incorporated. The group made a significant contribution to bonsai in Australia by hosting the 18th AABC National Bonsai Convention held at Sydney Olympic Park in 2005. From a small group of Megumi’s students the Society has grown to boast some 100 members today, and has elected representatives on both the AABC and BFA.
For more information on Megumi Bennett, Alex Bennett, or to get in touch with our associated bonsai nursery Bonsai Art Pty Ltd, please visit https://megumibennettbonsai.com/
~ Club Meetings
Club meetings are held on the 4th Saturday of each month February-November from 1pm at the Forestville Community Arts Centre, 6 Darley Street, Forestville NSW 2087.
Each month we will be focusing on a new topic/aspect of bonsai design and horticulture. Throughout the year we also aim to host some special guest speakers and demonstrators to share their extensive knowledge on the world of bonsai. Please contact our Committee if you would like any information on the upcoming club meetings and workshops – go to the Contact Us web page.
~ Program
A varied program is put together each year by the Society’s Committee. Its consists of guest speakers, workshops and demonstrations. The demonstrations are given by both members and invited bonsai artists.
A number of social events are organised each year. This include such things as: bus trips to visit other Club exhibitions, botanical gardens and special workshops; end of the year lunch; and anything else the committee can organise to meet the Society’s needs.
A small group of members have enjoyed a bonsai tour of Japan on three separate occasions. These have happened every few years and are organised by our Patron, Megumi Bennett.
~ Newsletter
A Newsletter is emailed to all members bi-monthly. It contains details of the next two meetings, seasonal notes for bonsai care, articles about all things of interest to bonsai artists both the bonsai novice and more experienced hobbyists, a calendar of events, and a brief overview of our Society’s news.
~ Annual Exhibition
The Society holds its Annual Exhibition in August at the Forestville Community Arts Centre. All members are able to display their favourite tree and enjoy the trees of other members. Also on display is ikebana by the Koryu Shoyo-kai School of Ikebana, Sydney. Demonstrations and explanations of bonsai techniques and ikebana are given by experienced members. There are also bonsai trees and pots available for sale.
~ Library and Equipment
A small library of bonsai books and magazines has been put together for the use of members. These are available at each club meeting.