LandscapeLife
The Queensland Landscaping Industry Magazine











Welcome to the 2022 “Awards” edition of Queensland Landscape Life.
In this edition we’ll provide a wrap up of the 2022 Landscape Queensland Construction Excellence Awards, including all category winners and finalists, the winners of the overall Residential and Commercial Construction of the Year Awards. We’ll also highlight the Queensland winners of the 2021 National Champion of Champion Awards.
Thanks to everyone that has been invo
Congratulations to this year’s LQ Award winners and finalists. The standard of entries was once again very high throughout all categories. The Awards Gala Dinner was well received with great feedback from members, sponsors and the broader industry. The Awards program displayed an amazing range of residential and commercial projects from throughout the state culminating in the announcement of the QLD Landscape Construction of the Year for both the Residential and Commercial segments of the industry.
An Awards program of this size and quality can’t take place without the involvement and cooperation of many stakeholders. Thank you to all our industry sponsors, judges, LQ staff and in particular the LQ members that have entered their prized projects into this year’s Awards. You have all contributed to another successful LQ Awards Program which recognises excellence in landscaping and helps to promote and showcase our industry.
I hope you enjoy this 2022 LQ Awards wrap up.
Mark Sorby Chief Executive OfficerThe 2022 LQ Construction Excellence Awards Gala Dinner was once again a brilliant event. It was wonderful that we could all be back together again in person to celebrate the best of the best in landscaping and to catch up with some old acquaintances as well as meet some of the new and emerging businesses in our industry. From a contractor’s perspective, we put in a lot of hard work to achieve the best outcomes we can. It's great to get the acknowledgement of our efforts and our expertise on behalf of our teams and our clients through the Industry Awards program. The LQ Awards is a great platform for our industry as a whole to promote the important work we do and hopefully inspire the next generation of landscapers to choose landscaping as their number one career choice.
Congratulations to all the category finalists, highly commended and winners. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this great Awards program. Your involvement makes all the difference. Enjoy this year's Awards magazine.
This year we are pleased that Landscape Architect Tessa Leggo accepted the role of Head Judge for our judging panel. A special mention also to Michael Ryan and the whole panel of judges.
It is important to note the judging process for each year’s awards is carried out independently from the Association with the judges being unaware of the name of the members who have submitted entries
On behalf of the 2022 LQ Awards judging panel, it has been a pleasure to again be involved in this impressive industry Awards program. All entrants should be very proud of the high standards they have achieved. Judges were particularly complimentary of this year’s attention to detail and innovative use of materials which highlighted the pride that individual landscape teams are taking in their work.
Congratulations to all of this year’s entrants and winners for the high quality work you perform and the professional manner in which you undertake it.
After two years of Livestream presentations, the Queensland landscape industry dusted off their tuxes, dressed in sparkly gowns and gathered to acknowledge and celebrate the best of the best in landscaping at this year’s Gala Awards dinner held at the Brisbane Sofitel on Saturday 12th November. The evening began with a moving welcome to country performed by Aunty Roma Pregarc from Spirit of Country who was accompanied by didgeridoo artists Eric and Ben.
The Awards presentation was hosted by 97.3fm breakfast host Terry Hansen and showcased an amazing range of residential and commercial projects from throughout the state culminating in the announcement of the QLD Landscape Construction of the Year for both the Residential and Commercial segments of the industry.
This year’s entrants should be congratulated for the high standards that were achieved. Landscape contractors had delivered high-quality results despite having to overcome numerous problems such as supply chain disruptions and staff shortages. This year’s industry Awards program again showcased the high-level skills and professionalism of Landscape Queensland members. It was evident from the wide range of projects that landscapers are continuing to undertake an exciting and diverse range of projects throughout the state which were reflected in this year’s awards entries.
The evening also highlighted entertainment from the popular Landscape Queensland competition ‘Landscape Legend’ with the legend finalist's entry videos being shown before the final winner was chosen by audience participation.
The buzz around the room for everyone being able to gather and celebrate again was electric as finalists, highly commended and winners were celebrated with dinner, drinks, dancing and much cheer. Overall, the 2022 Landscape Queensland Awards Program was a tremendous success, and it is fantastic to see the diverse and high level of skills in the industry continue to grow.
As the dust settles after another outstanding Awards evening, the true scale of the masterpiece has now been unveiled As you heard from plenty on the night itself, it was fantastic to be back in the ballroom to experience the hype first hand Tuning in from private parties or the comfort of your living room was novel, but nothing beats the atmosphere of a raucous landscaping crowd! Most striking was the quality and scale of the projects, which continue to outdo themselves each year.
Of course, the credit for these amazing projects goes to you, the Landscape Queensland Member and your team, that can bring a vision to life. But the real winners are your clients, who are left with something that genuinely changes how they live and interact with nature, whether in the home or public spaces. A space that will continue to bring joy and add value to their lives for years to come. These installations, in many cases, will take some time to fully mature and need to be nurtured to ultimately realise the original vision. In many cases, your client will be charged with this responsibility, and not all clients will maintain these beautiful creations to the same degree that a landscaper would. The key is always to give them the best possible start with a quality product to ensure long term success, even with minimal input
The use of quality soils in garden construction is a fundamental factor in the success of your project long after you've handed over the keys Looking around local neighbourhoods and public spaces today, many either don't appreciate the true potential of plants and gardens or don't know how quality soil should perform, and often resign themselves to average growth.
While our UltraGrow brand today consists of a whole suite of products designed to encourage healthy growth, our roots are quite literally in soil. We set out to create a collection of soils with you as the landscaper and your clients as the long term beneficiaries in mind A soil that performs from the moment it's planted and will continue to improve with age allowing your designs to reach their full potential and genuinely delight your clients
The UltraGrow Range is industry leading and continues to perform in projects throughout South East Queensland and beyond, including several LQ Member projects and award winning landscapes in both the residential and commercial sectors.
Award winning landscapes deserve to be built on the best foundations for you and your client to enjoy.
Proudly sponsored by "The design and construction execution by the contractor showcases a high level of sophistication and provides the visitors with a wonderful element of surprise and delight as you are enticed to meander around the alluring pathways and take in the many wonderful project details. The juxtaposition of soft turf mounds cocooning blonde granite boulders, steel and stone textures with an arid garden and playful metal sculptures amongst lush planting are all anchored by the hero transplanted bottle tree central to the space. This interesting project has been executed in superb detail proving a welcoming space to enjoy."
"This pool area, timber work and soft landscaping is a great example of the saying 'good things come in small packages'. Faced with a sloping site and drainage challenges, the result is a lovely, modestly proportioned, and detailed landscape that is a testament to the logistical and construction skills of the contractor. This is a space that is sure to be enjoyed for years to come."
total
between $75,001 and
sponsored by "Excellence in landscape construction is showcased in this residential garden It is evident that each and every component of this project has been executed with precision. The turf is perfectly even and the rebuilding of the soil profile to provide appropriate media is evident with a significant amount of growth seen in the planting. The construction of such a successful landscape, considering the existing drainage and access hurdles, is nothing short of exceptional "
Projects of total cost between $100,001 and $125,000
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"The attention to detail in both hardscape and softscape treatments combined with exceptional and effective earthworks and grading makes this project a truly commendable winner. The interfaces between surfaces were executed cleanly and concisely, delivering both a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing outcome Planting throughout the project has been very successful a result of soil preparation and effective drainage The quality of the materials and construction methods delivers a beautiful subtropical living environment that will continue to age well into the future."
To view all Residential 4 Category Finalists please click here
Projects of total cost between $175,001 and $250,000 Proudly sponsored by
"This is a beautifully executed landscape that carries through exceptional construction detailing over sprawling grounds that blend back into the rural residential feel The alpine inspired project features hints of exotic cold climate planting mixed with natives amongst elements of boulder and stone The attention paid to each hardscape interface and the way the planting growth supports the visual appeal, has led to a beautifully finished project that meets the original design intent and that the contractor should be very proud of "
"A garden that is both beautiful in its formality and fitting to its surrounds. The articulation of the client's desire for a garden reminiscent of a temperate semi formal garden has been achieved with great success. The design decisions made, in conjunction with flawless construction methodology, make for a garden that meets the client’s aesthetic aspirations whilst providing a welcoming and usable space for family "
Proudly sponsored by
Contemporary
Landscaping
Proudly sponsored by
Yards Coorparoo yards com au
"There is not a blade of grass out of place in this garden. High precision topiary, pleaching, and pruning combine to form a garden that is meticulous in its presentation. The health and vigour of all planting is evident, further demonstrating the skill of the maintenance contractors who care for this space."
To view all Maintenance Residential Finalists please click here
Projects of total cost up to $250,000 Proudly sponsored by
UQ Student Services Hub, St Lucia penfoldprojects com au JUDGE'S COMMENTS
"This project provides a contemporary space full of lush and sub tropical landscapes that seamlessly combine the surrounding heritage and new age architecture The success of the planting is a testament to the contractors' methodology in soil preparation, planting, and mulch installation The space reflects a number of stand out hardscape construction techniques, evident where the garden edging seamlessly blends the new with the existing landscape. The trellis works is constructed to a high level that creates a successful tool for the sub tropical vines to climb. The result is a space that offers respite for users and a space that compliments the overall landscape design."
"This project demonstrates extremely strong landscape construction techniques Natural materials feature throughout and provide for attractive contrasts. A standout inclusion is the hardwood timber throughout. This natural product has been used in innovative ways and executed with precision. Waterplay and subtropical plants feature throughout the playscape providing rainforest aspects and even include a bespoke walk in bird aviary. A well constructed and robust project suitable for the challenging environment of a childcare centre."
"A beautiful, interesting and entertaining space for children. So many objects and features, all constructed to an excellent standard The timberwork and painting construction is beautifully detailed and thought through The challenges of being constructed within a historic building, varied slope and drainage mitigation issues and late inclusion of additional features, were not lost on the judges. The aeroplane and giraffe really take this space to the next level well done construction team!"
PENTABLOCK® featured on The Block 2022 House 5, Omar & Oz, used the Pentablock™ Melbourne range, complemented by our beautiful Bluestone wall capping This finish really took the judge's breath away, not only for its natural beauty but, for its simplicity and speediness of the installation process. House 3, used Pentablock™ Raw Series complemented by Bluestone wall capping in their market garden Check out our website & socials for more details
PENTABLOCK® is a unique interlocking vertical construction block system with a Natural stone option already applied. The blocks feature a patented design with a simple rebate joint and a mortarless quick and easy construction process Contact us direct via the links below
Projects of total cost between $750,001 and $1 Million Proudly sponsored by
"A public park project which contributes to the liveable fabric of an inner city green community. Situated over an existing car park, the works were completed as podium works with various levels built up via block work and the selective use of sandstone. The central fig tree planter is built over a large void completed with specified soil blends and again built up with block work, sandstone blocks and steppers and further complimented by the use of heritage brick pavers and seating This project is skilfully constructed and detailed. The planting and hard works have a level of excellence that makes this project a deserving winner."
Pondless Waterfalls are a great feature to bring into your garden Between the striking beauty and soothing sound of moving water, they transform any space into an aquatic paradise. Whether you want a gentle babbling brook or something more spectacular, with cascading, churning water, the Pondless can be specifically designed to work within a variety of sm or large locations
Aquascape Australia stocks a wide range of Pondless Waterfall Kits in various sizes and can assist with specifications for any design We have a network of professional Certified Aquascape Contractors who we can connect you with for installations if required.
Projects of total cost between $1 Million and $2.5 Million
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"This urban project has been executed to a high standard in all elements, from the street frontage to the roof top gardens Highlights include the beautiful paving as well as the excellent irrigation work and superb planting techniques that are evident in the planting growth. Facing many challenges working on a 31 story urban high rise such as tight access and reduced construction times, the contractor has overcome these challenges and delivered a high quality contribution to an inner city living environment."
Proudly sponsored by
Proudly sponsored by
"A discerning eye and attention to detail has created an excellent level of presentation and amenity throughout this project The maintenance is clearly well planned and undertaken in a consistent and considered manner This approach is particularly evident as the neat and yet informal character of the parks and estate entries are preserved."
Proudly sponsored by
ogressed kers but ttitudes, next
"Josiah applies himself conscientiously to all aspects of his work earning the respect from management and colleagues alike Josiah is encouraging in his support and assistance of teamwork and training He has natural leadership skills which see him taking responsibility for many aspects of maintaining a safe workplace. Josiah is a volunteer for the Rural Fire Service and is passionate about environmental landscaping having excelled in native ecosystem areas in his study. Josiah is an incredibly worthy award recipient and a future leader of the landscape industry in this state."
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"Overall, this is an exceptional project that shows high quality construction methodologies, intricate detailing, and perfect execution The travertine blends perfectly with the floating concrete steps, rendered walls and inbuilt timber seats, with a great consistency shown around all the interfaces and details The installation of the sinuous curves throughout the project shows a great level of skill. The planting showcases timeless choices and balance to the hardscaping elements. A well deserved winner for Residential Landscape Construction of the year."
Proudly sponsored by
The Standard by Aria, South Brisbane cbdlandscapeconstruction com au JUDGE'S
"This impressive project has been executed to the highest standards. The project demonstrates exemplary skill levels and the use of high quality and appropriate components for all elements. The contractor’s management ability was evident, embracing difficult access, time restraints and growing conditions. Breathtaking views are complemented by the spectacular green incorporated environment the contractor has created as a desirable model to achieve the inner city lifestyle balance. The superb quality, technical professionalism, and presentation of all landscaping elements is of a high standard of excellence with this project being a deserving winner of the Commercial Landscape Construction of the year."
Proudly sponsored by
Landscape Queensland is pleased to acknowledge the contribution that industry suppliers make to the overall success of the Landscape & Garden Maintenance industries. We recognise the important role suppliers play in the day to day operations of a contractor’s business.
The supplier of the year award gives members the opportunity to vote for those businesses who have supported them throughout the year.
It’s been tough for many over the last few years and a strong team with a strong culture can make all the difference when it comes to getting through these difficult times The LQ Landscape Legend Competition is a chance for LQ members to build and showcase their team’s culture whilst having a laugh and showing off the more humorous and creative side of their group.
In 2022 there were massive prizes up for grabs including $1000 in cash for the winning legend AND another $1000 for more team-building exercises for the LQ member business that nominated their legend PLUS finalists received a ticket to the Gala Dinner AND a really cool shirt!
Guests at the Gala Dinner watched all four Landscape Legend finalist’s video submissions answering this year's Fast Five questions. Finalists were called to stage by MC Terry Hansen who rallied the audience into a frenzy to decide who would win the coveted title of 2022 LQ Landscape Legend. It was a tough competition, with finalists showing their dancing skills in an effort to win! However, in the end it all came down to the beard and with an enormous roar from the crowd, Trent Barnes from Environ Landscape Solutions was crowned the 2022 Landscape Legend!
Trent receives a $1000 prize, as we s LQ member business Environ Landscape Solutions to put toward s. Runners-up were still legends taking away $100 gift cards an ol Landscape Legend shirt!
Winner's prize provided by
Winners of eligible 2021 LQ Construction Excellence Awards categories were subsequently in the running to be crowned Australian Landscapers of the Year as part of the Champion of Champions competition organised by Universal Media Co.
In 2022 the winners were announced in the inaugural 2021/2022 Husqvarna Champion of Champions: Australian Landscaper of the Year Awards.
Queensland's entrants took out an incredible 4 of the 7 award categories as well as being crowned both Residential and Commercial Landscapers of the Year. Congratulations to the winners CBD Landscape Construction, Yards, Landscape Solutions (Qld) and Living Style Landscapes
The result is a testament to the strength of the Landscape industry in Queensland and highlights the quality of work that is being undertaken by LQ Members in this state.
LQ would also like to acknowledge and congratulate all the 2021 LQ Award finalists who were in the running for these national awards. An excellent achievement - Ausplay Playscapes, CBD Landscape Construction, Contemporary Landscaping, Dorset Bottega, Earth Creation Landscapes, Eureka Landscapes, Landscape Solutions (Qld), Living Style Landscapes, Scapex Landscapes, and Yards View all 2021 LQ Award winners here
The Champion of Champions competition has been confirmed to run again in 2022. This means winners from eligible residential and commercial categories may again be in the running for a national award. Stay tuned for more information.