EARTHSTYLE
AUTUMN/WINTER 2025
SHOW GARDENS AND WELCOME GARDEN AT 2025 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN SHOW
OLD TREES REIMAGINED: NURSERY NEWS ON COURSE FOR CONNECTION: 2025 LV MEMBER GOLF DAY
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
PLANNING FOR EFFECTIVE OUTDOOR LIGHTING
TURNING CLICKS INTO CLIENTS: OPTIMISING YOUR GOOGLE BUSINESS PROFILE
EARTHSTYLE
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
Our Cover: Re-Set, by Earthcore Landscapes, winner of the 2025 Boutique Gardens Competition at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Image: Stephen Laurence, Gardens at Night.
EARTHSTYLE
Publisher: Landscaping Victoria
Editor: Lauren Bianchi
Contributing Editors: Ritchie Hinton
Writers/Contributors: Ritchie Hinton, Lauren Bianchi, Bianca Debono, Ian Barker, Speciality Trees, Kate Soulsby, Gardens At Night, Eloyse Edwards, Patterson Cheney.
Art Director: Lauren Bianchi
Photography: Images are sourced from our Members, from commercial use stock libraries, or are AI generated, unless otherwise stated.
Customer Service Enquiries
Landscaping Victoria Sector Offices, Suite 7, Level 3
2 Brandon Park Drive Wheelers Hill VIC 3150
t: +61 3 9566 7284
e: admin@landscapingvictoria.com.au
www.landscapingvictoria.com.au
Editorial/Advertising Enquiries
e: marketing@landscapingvictoria.com.au
Subscription Enquiries
e: member@landscapingvictoria.com.au
Earthstyle is published twice a year. It is Victoria’s premier landscaping publication, dedicated to inspiring and educating landscaping professionals by sharing creative solutions, sustainable practices, and industry expertise.
© 2025 Earthstyle. All Rights Reserved. The content in this publication is for general information only and not intended as specific advice. Readers should seek professional advice before acting on any material. While all efforts are made to ensure accuracy, Earthstyle and Landscaping Victoria assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. From
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Reflecting on the year
As we close out another busy financial year, Landscaping Victoria celebrates the progress, passion, and strong community that continue to drive our association forward.
Building on a Solid Foundation
This year, we’ve continued to focus on strengthening the value of membership while refining internal systems to better support our growing base.
As part of our longer-term strategy, we’re investigating a more efficient CRM to support our team and ensure we continue delivering timely, relevant, and high-quality service to our members.
We’ve also set ourselves a target to grow our membership by 10%—but just as importantly, we’re focused on improving the experience and benefits for our existing members. Increasing both the perceived and actual value of membership will remain a priority moving forward.
Industry Engagement & Advocacy
Ritchie Hinton, our CEO, continues to play a pivotal role in external engagement. His regular contact with the Building & Plumbing Commission (formerly VBA) ensures that Landscaping Victoria remains involved in critical industry discussions and decisions.
He has also continued fostering collaborative relationships with industry bodies such as NGIV, GIA, and others. These partnerships help us explore joint initiatives and build stronger connections across the landscaping sector.
Events & Highlights
The Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS) was once again a major success and a showcase of the talent within our industry. We also saw continued enthusiasm and strong attendance across industry events and networking nights—opportunities we’ll keep building on in the year ahead.
Our “Find a Professional” tool has continued to grow and evolve, and we look forward to expanding its functionality further to improve visibility and business outcomes for our members.
Financial Position
Financially, the association remains in a strong position. We’ve maintained healthy surpluses and are well placed to use this strength to help accelerate key strategic goals in the year ahead.
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, we will continue to focus on improving operational efficiency, strengthening member engagement, and advocating for greater recognition and support of our industry at all levels.
We are also in the early stages of reviewing how we measure and communicate member impact, ensuring the Landscaping Victoria community continues to thrive, grow, and remain relevant into the future.
Acknowledgements
Thank you to the entire Board for their continued contribution, and to Ritchie and his team for their dedication and professionalism. With no board movements this year, it’s worth noting the stability and collective knowledge we have around the table—something that’s greatly valued.
However, if you have ever considered being involved at board level, there has never been a better time. Please make yourself known—I would be more than happy to discuss the opportunities that exist both now and into the future.
And most of all, thank you to our members. Your ongoing support, feedback, and involvement are what drive us forward.
All the best,
Ian
IAN BARKER
Ritchie Hinton hosting Q&A at MIFGS.
More industry & networking events to come.
Momentum on show
Landscaping Victoria made a powerful impact at MIFGS 2025 — connecting with thousands, educating the public, and showcasing the value of qualified professionals. With a packed calendar ahead, momentum is building across the industry — and we’re just getting started.
As I reflect on the first half of 2025, one word stands out: momentum.
Our industry’s moving forward with purpose — evolving, growing, and delivering some truly outstanding work across Victoria.
This year’s Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS) was a clear highlight. With over 115,000 visitors — the biggest crowd in more than two decades — the appetite for quality landscaping and innovative design has never been stronger. Landscaping Victoria was right at the heart of it, set among the buzzing Boutique Gardens in our LV-branded luxury cabin.
The space quickly became a dynamic hub. From casual chats to in-depth conversations, it was alive with energy. Our members gave their time to connect with the public, share expertise, and help guide homeowners in finding the right landscaping professional. It was a chance to showcase who we are, what we stand for, and the value of working with qualified professionals.
We also ensured people left with more than inspiration. Over 6,500 copies of The Best magazine were handed out, alongside 2,500 branded buckets — each tagged with a QR code linking directly to our ‘Find a Professional’ page.
These efforts helped drive a strong
increase in website traffic, proving the message landed.
MIFGS reaffirmed the importance of showing up. It’s where trust is built, and where the public connects with the professionals shaping their gardens of tomorrow. To every member who gave their time and knowledge — thank you. You helped elevate the profession and the people within it.
Away from the Carlton Gardens, we’ve kept busy. From training sessions and partner briefings to industry nights and networking events, we’re focused on creating opportunities for learning, growth, and collaboration.
And we’re not done yet. The Landscape Show 2025 is just around the corner — Wednesday, 28 May at Sandown Racecourse. It’s shaping up to be our biggest yet, spotlighting innovation, new products, and professional connections. Whether you’re after tools, tech, support, or simply a good yarn with peers, it’s a mustattend trade event.
Looking ahead, entries for our Annual Awards Program open in July, leading to a celebration in November at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. It’s where we honour the work that sets our industry apart — so if you’ve got a project worth sharing, now’s the time to prepare.
And if you’re not yet a member of Landscaping Victoria — consider this your nudge. Membership connects you with a trusted network, professional development, events, and exposure through Earthstyle, MIFGS and more.
It’s about being part of something bigger — a community working to raise standards and shape the future of our industry.
We’ve come a long way — and there’s still plenty more ahead. Let’s keep the momentum going.
RITCHIE HINTON
Colleen, Bianca, Ritchie, Lauren & Carolyn at MIFGS
Old trees reimagined
The staples still shine, but a new wave is growing. Compact natives, revived classics, and bold hedging options are reshaping the tree palette—proving there’s plenty of room to branch out.
SPECIALITY TREES
As we round out the first quarter of 2025, now’s the time to reflect on what’s been working—and start thinking ahead to spring.
Reviewing top performers often reveals the same familiar faces. The following five are enduring favourites:
1. Corymbia maculata
2. Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’
3. Magnolia grandiflora
4. Waterhousea floribunda
5. Ficus hilli ‘Flash’
These trees are landscape staples—for good reason. They’re reliable, versatile, and well-suited to a mix of residential and commercial applications, whether you’re after screening, standout form, or seasonal colour.
But it does beg the question: what comes next? What trees might eventually unseat these champions?
Maybe it’s a new style of hedging tree. A native Eucalyptus, Corymbia or Angophora ready to step into the spotlight. Or a small-growing, bigflowering evergreen with wow factor?
Demand for compact native trees has skyrocketed over the past decade. Grafted selections like Corymbia citriodora ‘Scentuous’ and Corymbia maculata ‘Lowanna’ are making it possible to bring beloved species into tighter spaces. Could similar techniques help us rethink other favourites?
In that spirit, we’ve been trialling Fraxinus angustifolia ‘Raywoodii’ grafted onto Fraxinus ornus—a smaller, hardier species. The goal: create a more compact Claret Ash with reduced self-seeding. Early signs are promising, with slower, shorter growth. Could this approach work for others?
And what of older species that have fallen out of favour? Sometimes it’s not the tree but the supply chain that’s the issue.
Take Calodendron capense (Cape Chestnut)—a breathtaking small tree once widely used, now overlooked. Today we offer a compact cultivar, Calodendron ‘Chandlers Silver’, as a substitute for evergreen Magnolia.
Another is Arbutus—a tough, sunloving evergreen with red-brown bark, bell flowers and ornamental fruit. Arbutus unedo is well known, but canariensis and menziesii deserve attention too. All three are performing beautifully.
Since 2007, demand for hedging and screening trees has surged, dominated by Ficus ‘Flash’, Syzygium, and others. While alternatives like Acacia ‘Lime Magik’, Leptospermum and Olives are gaining traction, deciduous hedging remains largely unexplored in Australia.
Yet in North America and Europe, it’s standard practice. Think Beech, Hawthorn, Parrotia—pruned into
striking seasonal hedges. With compact cultivars now available, could deciduous hedging bring something fresh to our landscapes?
Consider Ginkgo biloba ‘Blagon Fanfare’ and ‘Lemonlime Spire’—compact, upright, and ideal for clipping. Come autumn, their golden foliage is simply showstopping. Slow to grow, yes—but hardy, and worth the wait.
As we look ahead, the potential to reimagine old favourites—and discover new ones—is wide open. With clever grafting, revived classics and a willingness to try the unexpected, the next generation of go-to trees might just be taking root.
Website: www.specialitytrees.com.au
Phone: +61 3 9554 2000
Email: sales@specialitytrees.com.au
Corymbia maculata ‘Lowanna’
On course for connection
Sunshine, strong connections and a large turnout made the 2025 LV Member Golf Day one to remember. Held at Moonah Links, it delivered the perfect mix of networking, friendly competition and industry spirit.
RITCHIE HINTON
Against a backdrop of blue skies and sculpted greens, more than 100 Landscaping Victoria members gathered at Moonah Links Resort on the Mornington Peninsula for our annual Member Golf Day.
With clubs in hand and good company all around, the day was a celebration of industry community, connection, and a little healthy competition.
From the first tee to the final putt, the event brought together professionals from across the industry—contractors, designers, suppliers and more—for a day that balanced networking with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or picking up a club for the first time, the focus was on shared experience and industry camaraderie.
Conversations flowed as easily as the coffee at breakfast and the drinks at lunch, with new relationships formed and old ones strengthened across the course.
The day wouldn’t have been possible without all our wonderful attendees, but a special shoutout needs to go to the generous support of our industry partners, who helped make the event both enjoyable and memorable.
The sponsors’ contributions, along with fantastic giveaways and on-course engagement, added a lively dimension to the day—and reminded us once again how strong our industry partnerships truly are.
Whether it was a long drive, a wellplaced putt, or a new professional connection that stood out, the Member Golf Day proved to be a highlight on the LV calendar—and a powerful reminder of the value of time spent together, away from the job site.
Couldn’t make it?
Don’t worry—there are more opportunities ahead to connect, learn, and celebrate. Be sure to check the Landscaping Victoria website for event dates, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket information.
www.landscapingvictoria.com.au
Thank you to our 2025 LV Member Golf Day sponsors:
StrathAyr
Turning clicks into clients
Google is where Australians search when they need local services. Are you showing up? A well-optimised Google Business Profile can drive real leads, boost local visibility, and take the guesswork out of your marketing.
KATE SOULSBY
Trying to keep your landscaping business fully booked can feel like playing a game where the rules keep changing.
One minute, you’re kicking goals with a few paid ads and referrals— the phones are hot—and the next, the algorithm changes, the phones go quiet, and you’re back to sleepless nights.
It’s tempting to put marketing in the “too hard” basket and focus on the tools. But without a solid marketing strategy, your business growth isn’t really in your control.
Luckily, some plays in the marketing game are reliable winners.
One tool we could talk about all day is your Google Business Profile (GBP).
Previously known as Google My Business, this tool tells potential clients where you are plus it shows them how others rate you, the services you offer, when you’re open, and answers common questions.
Even better, when set up correctly, it tells Google how to rank you in search results—and best of all, it’s free.
Despite this, 55% of businesses haven’t even claimed theirs, let alone optimised it for ranking and conversions.
If you’re still not convinced, here are some stats to show why optimising your GBP is a winning strategy:
• Australia LOVES Google: As of July 2024, Google commands 93.95% of the search engine market in Australia.
• Local Searches Dominate: Nearly
half of all Google searches seek local information like business locations and phone numbers.
• Complete Profiles Win: Businesses with a complete GBP are 70% more likely to attract location visits and 50% more likely to secure purchases.
• Traffic Source: Verified GBPs get about 200 clicks or interactions per month, with nearly half leading to website visits.
So, if you’re at least mildly techsavvy and can spare an hour, here are four insider tips to boost your GBP—without spending a cent.
1. Use Niche-Specific Services in Your Descriptions
Generic terms like “garden maintenance” are overused. Stand out by adding niche-specific services. This positions you as a specialist, attracting clients ready to pay for specific solutions.
How to Do It:
• “Drought-tolerant landscaping”
• “Native plant garden design”
2. Geo-Tagged Photos with Keywords
Don’t settle for generic before-andafter shots.
How to Do It:
Use a free tool like GeoImgr to tag photos with project locations. Descriptions like “Low-maintenance native garden in Geelong” can boost local rankings.
3. Turn Reviews into Keyword-Rich Content.
Encourage clients to mention specific
services and locations in reviews and reply with subtle keyword reinforcement:
Them: “Fantastic job on my Bendigo garden with native plants!”
You: “Thanks for your kind words! We loved designing your native garden in beautiful Bendigo.”
4. Post Weekly Q&As Based on Actual Client Questions.
Most landscapers ignore the Q&A section, yet Google considers it fresh content and thanks you by ranking you.
How to Do It:
Pre-load Q&As that address common concerns, like: “Do you offer sustainable landscaping in Victoria’s regional areas?”
Optimising your Google Business Profile might take a bit of time, but the results are well worth it—more visibility, more calls, and less stress about where the next job is coming from.
Use this powerful free tool as a springboard to outplay your competition and make your business’s first impression a smash hit.
Kate Soulsby is a digital marketer with a green thumb, helping landscapers grow their business online.
Terra Digital is a Melbourne-based agency specialising in digital marketing for landscapers, offering tailored strategies to help businesses grow online.
If you’re interested in exploring these strategies further or learning about the tools that can simplify and automate the process visit terradigital.au
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RECOGNITION
Raising the bar : the Victorian Landscape Industry Awards
The Victorian Landscape Industry Awards return in 2025. Entries open this July—so start gathering your best work, and get ready to celebrate the projects, people and practices that move our industry forward.
BIANCA DEBONO
Each year, the Victorian Landscape Industry Awards shine a spotlight on the talent, creativity and hard work shaping our built and natural environments.
From elegant residential spaces to complex commercial installations, these awards celebrate the diversity and depth of landscaping across the state.
Being named a finalist—or taking home a win—is more than a trophy moment.
It’s a signal to clients, collaborators and peers that your work meets the highest standard.
For many, it opens doors to new projects or partnerships.
For others, it’s a proud opportunity to recognise the team behind the work—and the effort that goes into delivering excellence, day in and day out.
Importantly, the awards are
open to all Landscaping Victoria members.
This isn’t just a showcase for the ‘creme of the crop’—it’s a celebration of our entire community.
Whether you’re a small crew delivering high-impact residential jobs, a maintenance specialist, or a designer pushing creative boundaries, there’s a category for you.
The 2025 Awards programme opens this July, and we’re encouraging members at every stage of their journey to enter.
Even if it’s your first time, the process of reflecting on a project, documenting it, and having it judged by your peers is a rewarding experience in itself.
With categories spanning design, construction, maintenance, innovation, and sustainability, the awards highlight the many ways great landscaping work can show up—and succeed.
And when awards night rolls
around, it’s not just about the winners. It’s about coming together as an industry, catching up with peers, cheering each other on, and taking pride in the work we do.
So if you’ve completed a project you’re proud of—or if you’ve watched your team go above and beyond—this is your chance to share it.
Not for the sake of showing off, but to help raise the bar for us all.
For more information on how to enter the Victorian Landscape Industry Awards, or to check out the entry criteria so you can begin planning, visit the Events section on the Landscaping Victoria website: www.landscapingvictoria.com.au
2024 Landscape of the Year Winner, Jane Jones, with Landscaping Victoria President, Ian Barker
Planning for effective outdoor lighting
Smart lighting placement not only enhances a garden’s beauty, but improves safety, usability, and ambience. From installation tips to design techniques, here’s how to make your outdoor lighting solution shine.
GARDENS AT NIGHT
Whether designing an urban courtyard or a rural estate, considered lighting placement ensures seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor environments.
A well-executed lighting plan enhances functionality, safety, and visual appeal.
Optimising Light Placement
Different zones require specific lighting strategies.
Consider various settings such as alfresco dining, entertainment areas, and access pathways.
Side entrances and service zones need reliable illumination for both security and usability. Well-placed path lighting ensures safe navigation, particularly over level changes.
Accessories for Efficient Installation Incorporating lighting accessories purpose-built for the construction phase of your landscape minimises challenges and improves efficiency.
Step Light Canisters provide a professional solution for installing in off-form concrete and masonry walls during construction.
Linear Lighting defines architectural features and landscape contours. When combined with a Mounting Profile, it enables universal positioning for a variety of situations and fast, efficient installation.
Underwater Lighting Connection Systems offer easy configuration, allowing for future upgrades, additional lights, and cable extensions.
Adjustable Risers prevent plant growth from obstructing the intended illumination over time.
Enhancing Depth and Visual Impact
Thoughtfully placed lighting creates a sense of depth and draws attention to focal points.
Linear lighting installed beneath or along straight and curved edges helps visually define and elongate the space.
Use accent lighting to highlight sculptures and boundary trees, and elevate the atmosphere of alfresco areas with overhead lighting.
Inground Lights are ideal for bringing out the texture of stone or feature walls, where light gently grazes the surface for added dimension.
Safety, Longevity, and Performance
Well-planned lighting enhances safety along walkways, driveways, and key access points, while maintaining design integrity.
Choose non-corrosive, weatherresistant fittings to ensure longterm performance and reduce maintenance.
A uniform colour temperature across all fittings will ensure visual consistency and deliver a cohesive, warm-white illumination.
Set the tone for outdoor gatherings with overhead lighting that enhances ambience from above. Designed by Lisa Ellis Gardens, photography by Erik Holt.
Step Lighting gently defines level changes, guiding safe passage with subtle illumination. Designed by MINT Pool & Landscape Design, photography by Mitch Lyons.
Pathway lighting leads visitors with purpose, offering safety while drawing attention to feature plantings. Landscape design by Ian Barker Gardens, photography by Claire Takacs.
Ginkgo biloba 'Lemonlime Spire'
With a strong vertical growth habit and a delicately creased leaf, this Maidenhair Tree is perfect for courtyard gardens, containers and stylish landscapes. The columnar form is well-suited to formal garden styles but is equally at home in mixed planting where it provides a contrasting vertical accent. These living fossils are admired for their spectacular colour, turning from a rich green to a glowing lemon-yellow in autumn. Scan code for more information...
Why local plants perform best
Victorian-grown plants thrive in local conditions. Yet, it’s innovation and collaboration that truly elevates growers. Discover how local nurseries are cultivating smarter, more resilient choices for today’s landscapes.
ELOYSE EDWARDS
The right plants are vital to the success of any landscape, and nothing is more suited to Victorian gardens than Victorian grown plants.
With years to adapt to the local climate, locally grown plants have a distinct advantage.
Plants grown in milder regions often struggle when exposed to Victoria’s harsher seasonal variations, leading to setbacks in establishment and overall performance. Whilst not immune, Victorian-grown plants are typically better equipped to recover from climatic challenges than their interstate counterparts.
Of course, there’s more to plant performance than place of origin. Highquality production demands a deep
understanding of horticulture and the evolving needs of the industry. Through years of refinement, Victorian nurseries have developed a range of plants that thrive in local conditions from the moment they’re planted.
At Warners Nurseries, a commitment to quality and innovation drives a process of continuous improvement. One of the continued pursuits is the development of a broad-leaf Acmena to succeed the less resilient Syzygium cultivars.
Chosen for their larger glossy leaves, Syzygium were a go-to screening plant for years—but they’ve become increasingly problematic. Unlike Acmena, they’re prone to pests like Lilly Pilly Beetle and Psyllid, often requiring repeated pesticide use—posing risks to local biodiversity. They also produce larger fruit which, while attractive to wildlife, is less desirable in urban landscapes.
Seeing an opportunity for improvement, Warners began developing an Acmena with the same aesthetic appeal—broad, glossy green leaves and minimal fruit—without sacrificing resilience. After five years of propagation, one promising cultivar has been isolated. Before it joins the Warners range, it will undergo further trials to ensure it meets expectations in Victorian conditions.
Growers play a pivotal role in shaping plant choices in landscape design. A great example is the recognition of Ginkgo biloba ‘Lemonlime Spire’ as NGIV’s 2025 ‘Tree of the Year.’
This fastigiate cultivar maintains a narrow upright form with little to no pruning, making it ideal for compact spaces. With its elegant structure and versatility, it’s a standout alternative to Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’, offering a unique look with strong functional value. Through industry engagement,
new plants like this gain traction across the industry.
This collaboration extends into daily supply. Visiting a nursery to collect an order or select a specimen offers more than a convenience—it’s a chance to gain insight from experienced growers on plant selection, suitability, and care.
Choosing an accredited nursery strengthens these benefits, ensuring plants meet high standards in health, biosecurity, and sustainability. Accreditation reflects best practice in propagation, pest management, and environmental responsibility— supporting better outcomes in every garden.
Supporting local growers strengthens not only the Victorian landscape but the industry itself. With training centres facing closures and a growing skills shortage, collective action is needed. By championing education, driving innovation, and choosing local, we can ensure a thriving future for Victorian horticulture.
For more information about Warners Nurseries, visit their website www.warners.com.au
Ginkgo biloba ‘Lemonlime Spire’
The Breakup Garden, Kaz Krasovskis Landscape Design, Boutique Gardens finalist. Photography by Vivian Scarpari.
Room to Breathe, Lone Pine Landscapes, Boutique Gardens Silver Medalist.
Photography by Near Far Productions.
Re-Set, Earthcore Landscapes, Boutique Gardens Gold Medalist.
Photography by Vivian Scarpari.
BOUTIQUE GARDENS 2025
Proudly supported by:
LV’s shed supplied by:
From bold storytelling to meticulous craftsmanship, the 2025 Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show was a true celebration of landscape excellence.
The Show Gardens pushed creative boundaries with immersive, large-scale designs, while the Boutique Gardens showcased extraordinary skill and ingenuity within their compact footprints.
Set against the backdrop of Carlton Gardens, MIFGS 2025 was a vibrant display of passion, plants, and design vision.
The New Nature, Alistair Kirkpatrick, Carla Perry, and Michael Rochelle, Boutique Gardens Bronze Medalist. Photography by Alice Crowe.
Timeless Repose, Timeless Outdoors Boutique Gardens Finalist. Photography by Lauren Bianchi.
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
RE-SET
DESIGN: EARTHCORE LANDSCAPES
CONSTRUCTION: EARTHCORE LANDSCAPES
Re-Set offered an antidote to the chaos of modern life— and earned a Gold Medal in the process.
Designed by Earthcore Landscapes, this garden became a sanctuary, a space where nature quieted the noise and invited visitors to pause.
With minimal sensory input and a calming, grounding atmosphere, Re-Set created a moment of stillness in a world that so rarely slows down.
Rooted in the landscapes of the Yarra Valley, Earthcore Landscapes is a family-run company dedicated to crafting outdoor spaces that feel deeply personal— gardens that resonate on an instinctive level. Connection remains at the heart of their work: connection with the environment, with clients, and with the quiet beauty of natural spaces.
At the 2025 Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show, Re-Set invited visitors—human and non-human alike—to step away from the rush, take a breath, and rediscover the restorative power of a landscape designed for pause.
Photography: Vivian Scarpari
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
ROOM TO BREATHE
DESIGN: RILEY FIELD, MARIE-CLAIRE GEACH, JAMES DRINAN OF LONE PINE LANDSCAPES
CONSTRUCTION: LONE PINE LANDSCAPES
Some gardens are simply spaces to admire. Others pull you in, connect, and restore—and Room to Breathe did exactly that, earning a Silver Medal along the way.
Rooted in the idea that humans have an innate, biological need to connect with nature, this garden explored how the built and natural worlds can not only coexist, but elevate one another.
Here, architecture didn’t dominate the landscape—it embraced it. Plants spilled into structures, hardscapes dissolved into greenery, and the result was a space that felt both grounding and expansive.
As urban life becomes faster and more digitally driven, Room to Breathe reminded us of the power of reconnection. It was a garden that invited visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the innate bond between people and the natural world.
Designed by Riley Field, Marie-Claire Geach, and James Drinan of Lone Pine Landscapes, this space reflected their passion for seamlessly integrating landscape and architecture—a philosophy that continues to shape their work.
Photography: Near Far Productions
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
THE NEW NATURE
DESIGN: ALISTAIR KIRKPATRICK, CARLA PERRY, MICHAEL ROCHELLE CONSTRUCTION: ASH DARBYSHIRE, INNERBLOOM LANDSCAPES
Nature has always been our greatest teacher, but The New Nature challenged us to listen more closely—and earned a Bronze Medal for its visionary approach.
Inspired by the groundbreaking work of naturalist Tim Low, this garden was more than a landscape—it was a call to action.
Created by Carla Perry and Michael Rochelle, alongside their mentor Alistair Kirkpatrick, the design explored the ability of plants to heal, regenerate, and transform. Through phytoremediation and hyperaccumulation, plants can restore polluted land, offering a future where human impact isn’t just minimised—but reversed.
Rather than mourning what’s been lost, The New Nature asked us to see the potential in every space, to embrace a world where people and plants collaborate for a sustainable future.
Michael’s design practice centres on creating gardens that are both attainable and environmentally responsible, while Carla’s expertise in softscaping ensured a seamless balance between beauty and function.
Together, they offered a vision that redefined our relationship with nature—one where we step back, pay attention, and let plants lead the way.
Photography: Vivian Scarpari and Alice Crowe
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
THE BREAKUP GARDEN
DESIGN: KAZ KRASOVSKIS LANDSCAPE DESIGN
CONSTRUCTION: BRYSCAPES CONSTRUCTION
Gardens tell stories—but few are as personal as The Breakup Garden. A space that embraced change, creativity, and the beauty of imbalance, this design challenged the idea that landscapes must be neat or predictable.
Created during a time of personal transformation, it captured the energy, rawness, and unexpected beauty that emerge in moments of change. Influenced by Kaz’s time in Europe’s renowned gardens—Great Dixter and Hermannshof—this space reimagined planting through a fresh, progressive lens, blending Australian natives with Asian species for an unexpected fusion of textures and tones.
There was a wildness in the asymmetry, a freedom in its movement. Just as life evolves, so too did this garden—a living reflection of transition, resilience, and the art of letting go. The Breakup Garden invited visitors to step away from order, lean into the unexpected, and discover the beauty of a garden that grows with change.
Photography: Vivian Scarpari
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
TIMELESS REPOSE
DESIGN: TIMELESS OUTDOORS
CONSTRUCTION: LATHAM LANDSCAPES
Some gardens invite admiration—Timeless Repose invited you to sink in, exhale, and stay a while.
Designed by Aaron Leslie and Kelsey Johns of Timeless Outdoors, this garden was a study in balance: a modern interpretation of heritage elements, where the rugged charm of old Melbourne bluestone met the refined elegance of English tradition.
The result? A space that felt both classic and contemporary, structured yet effortlessly serene.
For Timeless Outdoors, the joy of landscaping comes from creating gardens that feel right—spaces that connect with people on an instinctive level. Their designs celebrate natural materials, authenticity, and a seamless flow that encourages relaxation.
Timeless Repose embodied this philosophy, reminding us that the best gardens aren’t just seen; they’re experienced.
Step in, settle down, and imagine yourself with a glass of something crisp in hand. This was a space made for lingering.
Photography: Stephen Laurence, Gardens At Night
Photography: Lauren Bianchi
WELCOME GARDEN
WELCOME GARDEN
DESIGN: BESPOKE LANDSCAPES & BAYLEY LUUTOMES
CONSTRUCTION: BESPOKE LANDSCAPES & DESIGN
The Welcome Garden set the tone for MIFGS 2025, offering visitors a first moment of wonder.
Conceived by designer Bayley LuuTomes and brought to life by Bespoke Landscapes and Design, this imaginative space redefined the idea of a garden as a portal to possibility.
Inspired by the concept of a secret garden hidden within a Rubik’s Cube, the design invited exploration and discovery.
Fragments of the cube, gradually overtaken by lush plantings, hinted at the playful interplay between structure and nature. Towering oaks, a nod to personal memories, anchored the space with a sense of timelessness.
The Welcome Garden wasn’t just an entry point—it was an experience. A testament to collaboration, creativity, and the enduring magic of gardens to surprise and delight.
Mitch & Laura from Bespoke Landscapes
Mitch Farina & Bayley LuuTomes
Photography: Thirty3 Media
BEST IN SHOW
DESIGN: ROB COOPER, DISTINCTIVE GARDENS
CONSTRUCTION: DISTINCTIVE GARDENS
AWARDED
CITY OF MELBOURNE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE - BEST IN SHOW
HORTICULTURAL MEDIA ASSOCIATION AWARD FOR BEST USE OF PLANT LIFE
GOLD MEDAL
Designed as a space to slow down and reconnect, ə’skāp blended modern lines with natural textures to create a garden that felt both immersive and grounding.
Predominantly planted with Australian natives, the garden was rich with movement and colour—grasses swayed gently in the breeze, softening stonework and structure alike.
A vine-covered arbour offered filtered shade, while floating walkways and a reflective pond invited quiet exploration. Central to the space was a natural stone firepit, carefully crafted to bring people together.
Built by a passionate team and donated post-show to support research into childhood dementia, ə’skāp was more than a show garden—it was a heartfelt gesture of connection, care, and cause.
Photography: Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
GOLD SHOW GARDEN
NOSTALGIA
DESIGN: PAUL PRITCHARD LANDSCAPE DESIGN
CONSTRUCTION: ADAM HOMPAS LANDSCAPES, JADE BUILT LANDSCAPES, PRUE MARKS DESIGN
AWARDED
MARK BENCE CONSTRUCTION AWARD
GOLD MEDAL
Nostalgia drew inspiration from a time when weekends were for mowing lawns, planting shrubs, and quietly taking pride in a job well done. Reflecting the spirit of mid-century Australian suburbia, this garden paid tribute to the proud homeowners of that era—people who built their gardens as extensions of their identity and aspirations.
For Paul Pritchard, this vision is deeply personal. Rooted in memories of family weekends spent gardening, it also honoured an ageing generation—many now living with dementia or Alzheimer’s. In partnership with Dementia Australia, the garden brought awareness to these conditions while acknowledging the families and carers supporting those affected.
With its distinctive blend of Palm Springs flair and Australian character, the garden featured a vibrant home façade, carport, manicured lawn, and an inviting front porch. The planting palette harmonised with the house’s colour scheme, while retro furniture and garden accents sparked moments of connection and curiosity.
Nostalgia was full of life—eclectic, expressive, and open-hearted. Through design and storytelling, Paul and Adam created a space that celebrated memory, sparked conversation, and gave voice to a cause that deserves understanding and support.
Photography: Lee Sanders
SHOW GARDENS
IN RATIO WITH AFRICA
DESIGN: MATT YORK
CONSTRUCTION: STEWART BUILDCO
AWARDED
SILVER GILT MEDAL
In Ratio with Africa was a thoughtful exploration of global garden design, shaped by Matt York’s work across Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana. Drawing on the rhythms of outdoor living and resilience in planting, the garden reflected how international design patterns can inform local practice.
A strong focus on water re-use, canopy planting in compact spaces, and meaningful spatial planning demonstrated how small gardens can deliver real environmental and sensory impact.
The Queensland Bottle Tree stood as a powerful symbol of connection to place, echoing the cultural reverence for the Baobab across parts of Africa.
BETWEEN MOMENTS
DESIGN: BEN HUTCHINSON
CONSTRUCTION: BEN HUTCHINSON LANDSCAPES
AWARDED
SILVER MEDAL
Rooted in the principles of wellness and healing, Between Moments was a sanctuary designed to restore. Drawing inspiration from the Australian bush, the garden blended natural elements—water, stone, and native plants— with a traditional sauna to create a space that nourished body, mind, and spirit.
Eucalypts, Lemon-Scented Tea Trees, Banksias, and Kangaroo Paws brought texture and seasonal colour, while resilient native grasses supported local habitat. A natural swimming pond glistened at the centre, its edges softened by rushes and animated by a cascading waterfall.
Stone pathways guided visitors through the landscape, leading to a sauna. Its glass panels offered panoramic views, while the scent of spruce and aspen deepened the sensory experience. Between Moments invited visitors to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect— with nature, and with themselves.
Photography: Vivian Scarpari
Photography: Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
SHOW GARDENS
DESIGN: CANDEO DESIGN
CONSTRUCTION: SEMKEN LANDSCAPING
AWARDED
SILVER MEDAL
More than a garden, ODE was a living tribute—a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the mentors, friends, and industry peers who have shaped Brent Reid’s journey in landscaping.
Through thoughtful design and layered symbolism, the space honoured legacy, connection, and the transformative power of mentorship.
Australian bluestone, terracotta roof tiles, and sculptural forms crafted from dead trees offered texture and meaning, while an abundance of plants grounded the garden in life. Created in memory of Mark Bence and in celebration of Martin Semken, ODE invited visitors to pause, reflect, and appreciate the enduring influence of those who help shape our industry.
DESIGN: JASON HODGES
CONSTRUCTION: SEMKEN LANDSCAPING
AWARDED
SILVER MEDAL
PEOPLE’S CHOICE
Doable was designed to challenge the idea that great gardens require big budgets. With clever planning and thoughtful choices, Jason Hodges created a welcoming, functional space that felt both beautiful and achievable.
Reclaimed cushions added colour to a simple timber pergola, while large-format, entry-level pavers delivered a premium look without the cost.
Lush planting brought the garden to life, showing that with patience and smaller pot sizes, a richly layered space is entirely within reach.
Anchored by a classic backyard lawn, Doable celebrated the everyday garden—livable, relaxed, and made for moments of connection. It reminded visitors that with a little creativity, a show garden is possible at home.
Photography: Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
YUTORI
SHOW GARDENS
BOUTIQUE GARDENS
It’s your turn to create something beautiful.
Each year, the Boutique Gardens Competition, hosted by Landscaping Victoria, brings fresh ideas and big impact to small spaces at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show.
DESIGN: CHRISTIAN JENKINS & BAILYN JENKINS
CONSTRUCTION: CHRISTIAN JENKINS & BAILYN JENKINS
AWARDED
SILVER MEDAL
In Yutori, Christian Jenkins invited visitors to do what so few manage in modern life—slow down.
Rooted in the Japanese philosophy of creating intentional space, the garden offered a sanctuary for reflection, calm, and simply being.
Stone pathways led through a tranquil landscape of cycads, maples, bamboo, and black pines, blending tradition with innovation.
A sauna, ice bath, and tiny home nestled within the garden redefined wellness in a compact, harmonious setting.
Yutori reminded us that serenity isn’t found in size—but in how a space makes us feel.
This unique platform invites both emerging and established designers to showcase their creativity, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a compact footprint.
Entries for the 2026 competition open in July 2025. If you’re ready to tell a story, test a concept, or build your dream garden on centre stage, this is your chance.
Visit www.landscapingvictoria.com.au for more information and keep an eye on LV News for updates. Not a Landscaping Victoria member? Now’s the perfect time to join!
Photography: Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
AWARD WINNERS
2025 GARDEN DESIGN AWARD WINNERS
GOLD SHOW GARDENS
ə’skāp
Design: Rob Cooper of Distinctive Gardens
Construction: Distinctive Gardens
Nostalgia
Design: Paul Pritchard Landscape Design
Construction: Adam Hompas Landscapes, Jade Built Landscapes, Prue Marks Design
SILVER GILT SHOW GARDEN
In Ratio With Africa
Design: Matt York
Construction: Stewart BuildCo
SILVER SHOW GARDENS
Between Moments
Design: Ben Hutchinson
Construction: Ben Hutchinson Landscapes
ODE
Design: Candeo Design
Construction: Semken Landscaping
Doable
Design: Jason Hodges
Construction: Semken Landscaping
Yutori
Design: Christian Jenkins & Bailyn Jenkins
Construction: Christian Jenkins & Bailyn Jenkins
CITY OF MELBOURNE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE - BEST IN SHOW
ə’skāp
Design: Rob Cooper of Distinctive Gardens
Construction: Distinctive Gardens
MARK BENCE CONSTRUCTION AWARD
Nostalgia
Design: Paul Pritchard Landscape Design
Construction: Adam Hompas Landscapes, Jade Built Landscapes, Prue Marks Design
HORTICULTURAL MEDIA
ASSOCIATION AWARD FOR BEST USE OF PLANT LIFE
ə’skāp
Design: Rob Cooper of Distinctive Gardens
Construction: Distinctive Gardens
PEOPLE’S CHOICE
Doable
Design: Jason Hodges
Construction: Semken Landscaping
LANDSCAPING VICTORIA BOUTIQUE GARDENS COMPETITION
GOLD
Re-Set
Design: Earthcore Landscapes
Construction: Earthcore Landscapes
SILVER Room To Breathe
Design: Riley Field, Marie-Claire Geach, James Drinan of Lone Pine Landscapes
Construction: Lone Pine Landscapes
BRONZE
The New Nature
Design: Alistair Kirkpatrick, Carla Perry, Michael Rochelle
Construction: Ash Darbyshire, Innerbloom Landscapes
CONGRATULATIONS!
To the designers, builders, growers, makers, LV Members, and behind-thescenes legends—thank you.
It takes time, talent, sweat, soil under the nails (and let’s be honest, the occasional tear) to bring MIFGS to life.
Whether you took home an award or not, you’re all winners for making it to the MIFGS stage.
We see you—and we think you’re blooming brilliant!
From the Landscaping Victoria team.
Photography: Lee Sanders
PRO-GRADE MODULAR STEEL GARDEN EDGING
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If you want to Wow! your clients and make life easier for your team, you'll find Straightcurve Steel Garden Edging, Raised Garden Beds, and Planters will do just that! So do yourself a favour. Take a moment to look into Straightcurve today. And start winning more clients, referrals, accolades, and time to do everything else.
TLS: where the industry grows
From product launches to real-world advice, The Landscape Show delivers the insights and connections that help businesses grow.
LANDSCAPING VICTORIA
If there’s one date that unites the entire landscaping industry, it’s The Landscape Show.
Held annually in Melbourne, this tradeonly event is the ultimate meeting place for landscape professionals— connecting designers, contractors, maintenance teams, and suppliers with the tools, products, and people shaping the future of the industry.
Returning in 2025, The Landscape Show will once again bring a full day of networking, product discovery, and inspiration to Sandown Racecourse.
build stronger businesses and better landscapes.
With 77% of attendees working directly in the trade, The Landscape Show is laser-focused on what matters to landscapers right now.
It’s a rare opportunity to speak face-toface with suppliers, trial products, and attend targeted seminars—designed specifically to add value to your day-today operations.
Whether you’re a sole operator, a growing crew, or a well-established business, this event is built to serve you. It’s where the latest ideas are shared, deals are made, and partnerships are
Thinking bigger? If you’re looking to expand your brand’s reach, connect with decision-makers, or align your business with the industry’s most respected event, now is the time to start planning your involvement in the 2026 Landscape Show—whether as an exhibitor, speaker, or sponsor.
For more information, log on to thelandscapeshow.com.au
Email us for our pricing and information pack sales@norwoodproducts.com.au Or call 1300 551 248 to talk to one of our friendly staff www.norwoodproducts.com.au
Choosing the right truck for your landscaping business
PATTERSON CHENEY
When it comes to landscaping, the right truck isn’t a luxury—it’s essential kit.
A reliable truck isn’t just a vehicle— it’s a vital tool in any landscaping operation.
From hauling heavy loads to navigating multiple job sites, the right setup can make a big difference to a business’s bottom line.
Patterson Cheney Isuzu helps customise trucks to suit the unique needs of landscaping professionals.
Here’s what to consider:
1. Payload Capacity & Body Size
Landscaping materials like soil, stones, and plants can add significant weight, even in small quantities.
Choosing the right payload capacity and body size is essential to safely and efficiently transport these loads.
Patterson Cheney works with customers to configure each truck for maximum performance and reliability.
2. Fuel Efficiency
With multiple jobs across different locations, fuel costs can quickly add up.
The 2024 N Series truck averages 15.1L/100km and features the 3.0L 4JJ1 turbo-charged diesel engine— regarded as one of the most economical four-cylinder diesel engines available.
3. Durability & Reliability
Landscaping can be demanding on vehicles. Isuzu remains Australia’s number one truck brand thanks to its legendary reliability and high resale value, making it a smart, long-term investment for any business.
4. Customisation Options
From toolboxes and ladder racks to custom shelving, a truck can be tailored to suit the way landscapers work. The Isuzu Tri-Tipper is a popular choice, offering the ability to unload materials like soil or mulch in any direction.
A dependable truck like those from Isuzu can improve both productivity and profitability.
To find out more, visit Patterson Cheney Isuzu at Keysborough or Pakenham, or visit their website: www.pattersoncheneytrucks.com.au
More than a free feed : why industry events matter
From site tours and hands-on demos to expert insights and shared stories, LV Industry Events are where real connections happen—and where the landscaping community comes to grow.
LANDSCAPING VICTORIA
In a hands-on, fast-paced industry like landscaping, it’s easy to forget the value of slowing down and connecting.
But when professionals come together—whether apprentices, crew leaders, or business owners— great things happen. Ideas are sparked, experiences are shared, and real relationships are built.
No matter your title or experience, there’s real value in being in the room.
Maybe you’ll learn a smarter way to manage your crew. Maybe you’ll meet someone who’s faced the same challenge you’re navigating right now. Or maybe you’ll simply be reminded that you’re part of a
bigger community that gets what you do, day in and day out.
That’s why these moments of connection matter. Not just for a laugh and a handshake, but because they create a ripple effect, of shared knowledge, fresh thinking, and mutual support that strengthens the industry as a whole.
Landscaping Victoria’s Industry Events bring these moments to life. Yes, there’s always a cold drink and a meal, but what really sets them apart is the substance behind the social.
Each event is tailored to offer something unique—exclusive site tours, hands-on experiences, industry innovation, and practical, take-home knowledge.
In the last 12 months, LV members have explored the digpit at Bendigo TAFE with William Adams CAT and walked the rows at Speciality Trees, learning how the nursery is preparing for climate resilience and setting new benchmarks in tree supply.
You’ve heard directly from education partners at Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute about how flexible training models are helping businesses better support their apprentices.
It’s this blend of experience and insight that makes LV Industry Events invaluable.
You’re not just catching up with industry mates—you’re discovering smarter ways to run your business, support your team, and stay ahead in a fast-moving industry.
And it’s not just for business owners. Apprentices and team members gain just as much value from being part of these events— meeting other professionals, hearing from leaders in the field, and building their own sense of belonging in the landscaping community.
While LV Industry Events are exclusive to members, they’re also a great opportunity for anyone considering membership to see what it’s all about.
Come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and get a genuine taste (pun intended) of what Landscaping Victoria offers—connection, support, and a thriving network of like-minded professionals.
Readers corner
Plantology : a
must-have
for plant lovers and landscape professionals
ISBN: 9781763503700
RRP $95.00
Cover: Hardback
With more than 60 years of combined horticultural experience, Landscaping Victoria member Lisa Ellis and co-author Teena Crawford have produced what many are calling the definitive guide to plant selection for Australian gardens.
Their new book, Plantology: The Essential Guide to Better Gardens, is a beautifully curated reference designed to educate, inspire, and support better plant choices—whether you’re designing professionally or simply nurturing your own patch of green.
Across 664 pages, Plantology features over 180 proven plant species suited to a variety of Australian conditions.
The book is thoughtfully structured with expert planting advice, landscape context, design notes, and a unique “plant thesaurus” to help readers substitute and select with purpose. It’s a modern, practical tool for building more beautiful, sustainable gardens—at home or on the job.
Some of the biggest names in the industry, including renowned landscape designer Paul Bangay OAM say it’s the,
“definitive guide to plant selection for Australian gardens.”
With rich photography, clear insights, and decades of wisdom distilled into one accessible volume, it’s already becoming a favourite among LV members and the broader horticultural community.
Copies are available now from Barometer Books. To order, visit their website at barometerbooks.com/plantology
