Talk, Matthew Flinders: The Man Who Named Australia, with James Cadle, Thursday 15th October 2026, 7:45pm, Church Centre, Featherbed Lane

The name of Matthew Flinders is little known in the UK but widely known and admired in Australia. He proved that Tasmania is an island and produced the first detailed map of the Australian coast; and he popularised the use of ‘Australia’ as the name for the continent. In this talk, James Cadle describes the career of this pioneering explorer.

Talks at the Prestwood Gardening Society

Don't forget that we have a reciprocal arrangement with our friends in the Prestwood Gardening Society whereby our members can attend each other's talks at no cost. You can view Prestwood's programme here: Events Calendar - Prestwood Gardening Society (e-voice.org.uk)

2026 Annual General Meeting, Thursday 26th November 2026, 7:45pm, Church Centre, Featherbed Lane

Our 2026 Annual General Meeting will take place on Thursday 26th November 2026, at the Church Centre in Featherbed Lane, starting at 7:45. This is a change from the date originally advertised. The Committee will report on the VPA's activities during the past year and set out plans for 2027. All current members are welcome to attend and vote at the AGM and cheese and wine will be available.

Trading Store now closed for the winter

The Store closed for 2026 on Sunday 27th September. It will open for the 2027 season on Sunday 3rd January.

Thank you for your custom during 2026.

Richard Chantler

Trading Store Manager

No more discounts at Hildreth's Garden Centre or Peterley Manor Farm

From 1st September 2025, Hildreth's no longer offer our members the 10% discount on horticultural purchases. Apparently, this is because they have launched their own loyalty card costing, we believe, £5 per annum. We also understand that discounts are no longer offered by Peterley Manor Farm.