As the proud owners of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS), Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) is delighted to once again welcome you to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most celebrated horticultural event – back in 2025 and better than ever.
Since its establishment in 1903, NGIV has been the peak industry body representing Victoria’s thriving horticulture sector. Our industry –encompassing growers, allied businesses, and retailers – is vibrant and diverse, bringing together professionals from all backgrounds who supply Victorians with exceptional plants and the latest in gardening innovation.
Each year, NGIV plays a crucial role in delivering MIFGS, an internationally acclaimed event that brings together plant lovers from near and far. Our growers and allied businesses contribute stunning plants and materials, helping designers craft breathtaking show gardens, while our retailers showcase an exciting array of plants and products for every garden enthusiast. By working alongside passionate stakeholders, we create a show that stands among the world’s finest.
This year, from March 26 to 30, we invite you to experience everything this incredible event has to offer at Carlton Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building. MIFGS is a true celebration of green life and the many benefits of gardening, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Proudly presented by NGIV and our valued partners, here’s a glimpse of what we’ll be delivering at this year’s show:
The Challenger Achievable Gardens Design Competition – Now in its 18th year, this
competition highlights the creativity and horticultural knowledge of students and educational institutions, showcasing diverse, high-quality plants in landscape design. Sponsored by Challenger, an investment management firm committed to financial security in retirement, the Achievable Gardens are sure to impress.
The Green Room – A dedicated space where professionals from the horticulture and media industries can connect, exchange ideas, and learn from leading experts.
The Victorian Schools Garden Program (VSGP) Grow Together Garden – A vibrant display of edible gardens, hands-on educational activities, and multicultural kitchen gardens designed to inspire young minds.
On behalf of NGIV, I hope you have a fantastic time exploring everything the 2025 Show has to offer. As always, MIFGS promises to be an extraordinary event filled with inspiration, innovation, and ideas for every gardener. May you leave feeling excited, motivated, and ready to bring your own green spaces to life.
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV
Discover the size, scope and scale of Victoria’s horticulture industry
Horticulture in Australia is thriving. With growing interest in gardening, sustainability, wellbeing, and food production, the industry is experiencing unprecedented expansion.
In 2025, the Victorian horticulture industry:
Produces over 35% of all the plants in Australia
Victoria is at the heart of Australian horticulture, producing more than 35% of the nation’s green life. With a strong heritage in plant production, the state has built a reputation for excellence, supported by skilled growers, innovative allied businesses, and dedicated retailers. From more traditional nurseries to high-tech growing facilities, Victoria’s horticultural sector embraces both time-honoured techniques and cutting-edge innovations, constantly adapting to meet evolving consumer and industry demands.
Is worth over $2.5 billion and employs over 24,100 people
As a major economic contributor, Victoria’s horticulture industry generates significant employment and fuels regional development. The sector’s adaptability and resilience ensure its continued success, whether through supplying fresh produce, developing new plant genetics, or championing sustainable practices for future generations. With an everevolving landscape, Victoria’s horticulture industry remains a powerhouse in both local and global markets.
Is a leader in domestic export and critical to food production
Victoria is a key player in domestic exports and an essential contributor to Australia’s food production. Its fertile soils, diverse climate, and innovative horticultural techniques allow the state to produce a wide variety of high-quality crops, ensuring a steady supply of greenlife for local communities and across Australia.
Supports community, environmental and economic health in Victoria
Beyond its economic significance, Victoria’s horticulture industry enriches communities and enhances environmental wellbeing. By creating jobs, driving investment, and fostering sustainable green spaces, the sector plays a vital role in supporting a healthier, more vibrant state. Studies consistently highlight the benefits of green spaces – such as gardens, parks, and urban forests – in promoting mental and physical wellbeing, further reinforcing the industry’s importance.
The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show showcases the beauty, diversity, and impact of horticulture – an industry that continues to flourish thanks to the passion and expertise of Victoria’s growers, retailers, and allied businesses.
egetables . v Redef i
Landscape a di nce,
ined
architects and idaward-winn are turning the raised g that elevate function.
Designed to the most so landscapes, are made in ing gardeners to Foodcube— arden beds both form and o complement phisticated Foodcubes n Australia from 80% recycle feature rustcladding for look.
Turn small s productive g seamlessly i architectura d materials and -inspired steel r a high end spaces into gardens while ntegrating with ally designed spaces and plantings.
Effortlessly s maintenanc prove that b bounty belo Foodcube –native stylish and lowce, Foodcubes beauty and ong together. The choice
vegetable gardens.
The Victorian Schools Garden Program presents the
Step into the vibrant world of the Victorian Schools Garden Program’s Grow Together Garden – an immersive journey where exploration, learning, and growth intertwine amid engaging displays and educational activities.
Presented by the Victorian Schools Garden Program in collaboration with Bio Gro, Foodcube, Arboriculture Australia, with support from United African Farm and the Urban Plant Health Network, the Grow Together Garden is a celebration of our city’s rich diversity.
Wander through this space adorned with beautiful edible garden displays, each reflecting the cultural tapestry of our community. Young gardeners can engage in garden-based educational activities sprinkled throughout the garden. From potting activities to interactive demonstrations, there’s something to captivate minds of all ages.
The Grow Together Garden offers an array of child-friendly activities designed to inspire curiosity, foster learning, and cultivate a passion for gardening, nature, and the wonders of the plant world.
In the Grow Together Garden, every corner is an invitation to explore, every activity a chance to learn, and every moment an opportunity to nurture a lifelong love for the beauty and bounty of our natural world.
About VSGP and the importance of school gardens
The Victorian Schools Garden Program (VSGP) recognises the importance of outdoor spaces in modern progressive learning and fosters student learning, health and wellbeing. It encourages schools to utilise their outdoor spaces and promote a lifelong connection with the natural environment.
As a pioneer in environmental education, the VSGP was established by Paul Crowe OAM and the late Kevin Heinze in 1977.
School gardens offer abundant opportunities for children to learn about productive cultivation, biodiversity, and
sustainable practices. They provide the ideal environment for students, teachers, and parents to share a practical and hands-on experience.
By developing green spaces within schools, teachers have the opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom and enable students to explore the numerous benefits of gardening. Expanding school green spaces not only contributes to stimulating learning environments but also enhances student health and well-being.
The Victorian Schools Garden Program offers grants to support schools in starting or repairing gardens, provides professional development workshops for teachers and volunteers, and offers hands-on learning experiences for primary students, while recognising student and school achievement through their awards program.
To learn more or to find out how your VSGP can help support your school’s garden program, visit www.vsgp.org.au or email vsgp@ngiv.com.au.
The Grow Together Garden is proudly supported by Victorian Schools Garden Program, Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria, Bio Gro, Foodcube, Arboriculture Australia, Urban Plant Health Network, United African Farm
To find out more about the Victorian Schools Garden Program, visit www.vsgp.org.au or www.ngiv.com.au
Introducing United African Farm INC
By Thuch Ajak, UAF Project Manager and Cofounder
Founded in 2019, United African Farm Inc. (UAF) is a community-led and community-driven initiative, built on the principle and spirit of Ubuntu – “We are because you are.” More than just a farm, it is a place where people grow food, share culture, and strengthen community ties. Located on Fowler Road, Cardinia, the three-acre farm provides a space for African migrants and refugees to reconnect with the land and preserve their traditions.
UAF operates as an incorporated association, governed by a board of individuals from diverse African backgrounds. It proudly embraces members from African nationalities, alongside allies from different communities who share an interest in farming and UAF’s vision.
With support from VicHealth’s Food Hub funding, UAF launched the Ubuntu Food Hub Project, ensuring members have access to fresh, organic produce while promoting self-sufficiency and healthy eating. The farm also hosts school tours and cultural immersion programs, where students participate in hands-on activities that build teamwork, encourage cultural exchange, and foster a connection to the land.
UAF also runs community markets, where members and olunteers grow and sell culturally significant crops, introducing unique African flavors to the broader Australian community while supporting economic opportunities.
At its core, United African Farm Inc. is about people –working together, learning, and growing something bigger than themselves. It is a space where food, culture, and community unite, proving that when people support each other, everyone thrives.
As the farm continues to grow, it aims to expand, empower, and create lasting change. Learn more at www.unitedafricanfarm.org
Plant of the Year 2025 winners announced
Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) is thrilled to announce the winners of the inaugural Plant of the Year awards, a celebration of outstanding plant varieties that spark innovation, inspire the industry, and showcase the exciting developments shaping the future of horticulture.
The awards, launched this year, were judged by a panel of industry experts and were evaluated based on criteria including aesthetic appeal, growth and performance characteristics, innovative qualities, and marketability potential.
The overall winner for 2025 is the spectacular RUNAWAY BRIDE™ Hydrangea (Hydrangea hybrid ‘USHYD0405’PBR), also named Shrub of the Year
Other category winners include:
» Specialist Plant of the Year: Ground Hug™ Myoporum (Myoporum insulare ‘MYIN01’PBR)
» Tree of the Year: Ginko ‘Lemonlime Spire’ (Ginkgo biloba)
» Herbaceous Plant of the Year: Dahlia ‘Sincerity Rose Bicolour’ (Dahlia x hybrida)
Highly Commended plants included:
» Rosa Flower Carpet Mini Cherry (Rosa Hybrid var. Noa20059PBR) (Shrub)
See these award-winning plants at the 2025 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
Visit plantoftheyear.com.au for more information on the awards.
Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea: A breakthrough in breeding – Plant of the Year 2025
By Bonnie-Marie Hibbs, Plants Management Australia
Hydrangeas have long been a favourite in gardens, admired for their lush blooms and elegant presence. However, the Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea is something entirely unique. This exceptional plant is the world’s first garland-style Hydrangea, setting it apart from traditional varieties.
With its semi-prostrate habit and abundant flowers along the entirety of each stem, Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea has captivated gardeners and plant enthusiasts worldwide. But its journey from discovery to becoming an award-winning sensation is just as remarkable as the plant itself.
Renowned Japanese plant breeder Ushio Sakazaki is no stranger to groundbreaking horticultural achievements. Best known for his work on trailing petunias, including the beloved Surfinia series, he has spent decades revolutionising garden plants. However, his passion for Hydrangeas led him to a new venture, taking his next breeding program into Japan’s serene mountainous regions.
While exploring Japan’s remote, rugged landscapes, Mr. Sakazaki encountered many wild Hydrangea species thriving in their natural habitat. During one of these ventures, a particularly unique form caught his attention. Intrigued by its rare characteristics, he collected samples, thus allowing his breeding program to evolve into a brand-new form that would change the category for these stunning plants.
Mr. Sakazaki initiated an ambitious cross-breeding program that combined wild Hydrangea collections with traditional Hydrangea macrophylla varieties. His goal was to preserve the wild form’s distinctive trailing habit while creating something unique with the flowering trait. He sought to enhance the plant’s vigour, bloom size, longevity, and garden performance.
The outcome was the Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea, an entirely new category of Hydrangea recognised for its elegant, arching stems adorned with blooms from top to bottom.
Unlike typical Hydrangea varieties that produce blooms at the tips of branches, Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea flowers profusely along each stem. This creates a graceful, cascading effect reminiscent of a floral garland – a feature never seen before.
Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea produces multiple flushes of pristine white flowers that appear throughout the growing season, providing abundant displays for up to four months in ideal conditions. The flowers enrich gardens from spring through summer, followed by stunning autumn displays as the foliage transitions through shades of red, orange, and yellow, ensuring prolonged beauty in any space. With its naturally spreading form, Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea is perfect for hanging baskets and containers or as a graceful garden filler plant or informal hedging solution.
Another fascinating attribute that resulted from the breeding program is Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea's prune-free nature, making it an even more effortless addition to the garden. Unlike many Hydrangeas that require careful pruning to encourage flowering, Runaway Bride™ blooms without the need for meticulous cutting back and is best left unpruned to achieve its famous flowering and growth habit.
While Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea is a low-maintenance shrub, providing the right growing conditions will ensure it thrives and continues to put on its spectacular show. Whilst being more sun tolerant, Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea still performs best in dappled sunlight or partial shade. Avoid harsh afternoon sun in warmer climates, as this may cause scorching to the foliage. A well-draining, moisture-retentive soil is ideal. Adding organic matter, such as compost, will improve soil structure and fertility.
Since its introduction, Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea has garnered widespread acclaim. It was crowned ‘Plant of the Year’ at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2018, Japan’s Flower of the Year for 2019-2020, and has also been awarded ‘Plant of the Year’ and ‘Shrub of the Year’ for 2025 by Nursery Garden Industry Victoria – in Australia. These accolades testify to its groundbreaking breeding and exceptional beauty. Its capacity to offer a unique floral display with minimal maintenance makes it essential for gardeners wanting to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor spaces.
From discoveries of wild plants to dedicated breeding programs with an expert plant breeder, the Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea has emerged as an award-winning sensation, highlighting the best of modern plant breeding – innovation, beauty, and effortless performance. Whether it’s cascading from a container, complementing mixed borders, standing out as a feature shrub, or stealing the show in a hanging basket, this remarkable Hydrangea truly belongs in a class of its own.
Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea is more than just a plant – it’s a living work of art.
More information
RUNAWAY BRIDE™ Hydrangea hybrid ‘USHYD0405’ PBR – for more information, visit www.piggybackfarm.com.au
50 years of creating healthier green spaces: Bio Gro’s commitment to sustainability
By Matt Van Schaik
In 2025, Van Schaik’s Bio Gro proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of innovation and dedication to environmental stewardship.
Since its inception in 1975, Bio Gro has been at the forefront of transforming organic waste into valuable resources, enhancing soil health and promoting sustainable practices across various industries. The company’s unwavering commitment to the circular economy is evident in its processes, which involve converting food and garden organic (FOGO) waste into nutrient-rich compost and mulch. These products not only improve soil fertility and structure but also reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers, contributing to healthier green spaces and a more sustainable future.
A testament to Bio Gro’s dedication to environmental sustainability is its active involvement in the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS). Over the past several years, Bio Gro has significantly contributed to the event’s
sustainability efforts by recovering substantial volumes of organic material. In 2023 the company processed approximately 151.94 tonnes of commercial green organics and 27.16 tonnes of commercial timber waste. In 2024, these numbers increased to 229.32 tonnes and 34 tonnes, respectively. By diverting these materials from landfills, Bio Gro supports the environmental goals of MIFGS and underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable waste management practices.
At the core of Bio Gro’s operations is its guiding mantra: Recover, Refine, Reapply. This principle is fundamental to the company’s day-to-day operations and plays a pivotal role in advancing the circular economy. Recovering organic materials from various sources, including kerbside FOGO collections, commercial green waste, and forestry by-products, is the first step in reducing landfill waste and mitigating environmental impact. Bio Gro’s state-of-the-art refining processes transform these materials into high-quality composts, mulches, soil amendments, and growing media. Finally, the refined products are reapplied to support agriculture, horticulture, viticulture, and urban landscaping, closing the loop on organic waste and fostering healthier ecosystems.
Bio Gro’s highly advanced organics processing capabilities are key to maintaining the highest industry standards in composting and soil improvement. With strategically located facilities in South Australia and Victoria, the company employs cutting-edge techniques to ensure optimal material recovery and refinement. This commitment to excellence allows Bio Gro to supply the market with premium growing mediums, soil amendments, and mulches that enhance plant vitality and contribute to long-term soil sustainability. By focusing on
high-quality organic solutions, Bio Gro provides landscapers, councils, horticulturalists, and home gardeners with the tools they need to cultivate healthier green spaces and drive sustainable change in their communities.
The roots of Bio Gro’s innovative approach trace back to the mid-1970s when founder Hans Van Schaik recognised the potential of recovering forestry by-products, such as pine bark and sawdust, which were then considered waste. He transformed these materials into beneficial products through experimentation and a visionary mindset, laying the foundation for the company’s enduring focus on environmental enhancement. Over the decades, Bio Gro has expanded its expertise to include a wide range of organic materials, including kerbside FOGO waste. By 2025, the company will divert more than 350,000 tonnes of organics from landfills annually, reflecting its significant impact on sustainable waste management.
As Bio Gro celebrates this milestone and looks to the future, its commitment to sustainability and innovation remains as strong as ever, enabling the company to continue leading the way in organic resource recovery for many decades to come. The company’s journey from humble beginnings to an industry leader is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of environmental stewardship. Here’s to another 50 years of creating healthier green spaces and a more sustainable Australia.
Garden Express: Leading the way in shopping for plants online
By Rowan Peterson
Our extensive online catalogue features everything from vibrant flowering bulbs and hardy perennials to the unique Wollemi Pine, catering to both seasoned gardeners and those just starting their green journey. We understand the importance of quality and variety, which is why we continuously update our offerings to include the latest and most sought-after plant varieties. Garden Express is not just about providing plants; it’s about delivering an exceptional gardening experience. Our online shipping service ensures that your chosen plants arrive at your doorstep in perfect condition, ready to be planted and enjoyed. We take pride in our efficient and reliable delivery system, which has been refined over the years to meet the highest standards of customer satisfaction.
Garden Express has been a trusted name in the gardening industry for over two decades, proudly holding the title of Australia’s largest online garden supplier. With a commitment to making gardening accessible and enjoyable for everyone, we offer a diverse range of plants, seeds, and gardening tools, all available at the click of a button. Our easy online ordering system simplifies garden planning, allowing you to bring your dream garden to life with minimal effort.
As a long-term exhibitor at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, we invite you to visit us at the Show in 2025. This prestigious event is a highlight of the gardening calendar, and we are thrilled to be a part of it once again. Our presence at the Show provides an excellent opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to explore our latest offerings, seek expert advice, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your garden with new plants or seeking inspiration for your next gardening project, Garden Express is here to support you every step of the way. Join us online or at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, and together, we can grow something truly beautiful.
Graft Master: Creating better plants one graft at a time
By Bonnie Wilson
From standardised Acacias and Grevilleas that cascade to the ground, to the stunning blooms of the dwarf flowering gums there are amazing grafted feature plants for all gardens.
Grafting creates one super plant from joining two different plants together, the result has superior vigour, flowers or fruit.The rootstock is grown first – not for its looks, but for its reliability and toughness. Once the rootstock reaches the desired size, the scion is grafted onto it. The scion is the ornamental top section, providing the plant’s visual appeal and wow factor.
At Humphris Nurseries, we graft to achieve special results from our plants, allowing them to grow in ways and places where they wouldn’t traditionally thrive.
» Disease resistance – Weaker plants can be grafted onto strong rootstocks, making them more resilient.
» Soil tolerance – Plants suited to dry conditions can be grafted onto a rootstock that thrives in a broad range of soil types. This means you can enjoy a flowering Eremophila from outback WA in your waterlogged Melbourne garden.
» Reliability – Grafted plants ensure consistent flower color, as they are exact replicas of the mother stock plant.
» Growth regulation – Grafting onto a small-growing rootstock results in a dwarfed plant. For example, flowering gums grafted onto a dwarfing rootstock remain compact, growing
just a few metres tall instead of reaching ten metres –perfect for smaller yards.
Growing grafted plants is a long-term process, as demonstrated by the Acacia Waterfall Standard grafting timeline:
» Year one – Plant the rootstock seeds. These require regular care to ensure they grow straight and tall.
» Year two – Graft the scion onto the rootstock. The grafting process can take months as the union knits together and begins to produce new growth.
» Year three – Pot the stock into its final container size. It will take this entire year to develop a strong stem and a full canopy, ready for sale.
» Year four – The finished plant is sent to nurseries for sale.
Grafting Australian natives is a highly specialised skill that requires deep plant knowledge and technical expertise.
Keep an eye out for Graft Master treasures at your local nursery. From ornamental weeping Grevilleas and brilliant flowering Eucalyptus to hardy Acacia Standards, there’s something special for every garden.
Discover the magic at your local garden centre!
In a world that moves at such a rapid pace, there’s something truly special about stepping into a community-driven garden centre, where knowledgeable staff, high-quality products and a passion for gardening come together to create an inspiring experience.
Garden Centres Australia (GCA) represents independent garden centres across the country, each dedicated to providing expert advice, premium plants and gardening solutions tailored to local conditions. Unlike large retail chains, these small businesses are run by passionate horticulturists who genuinely care about their customers and communities. By choosing to shop at your local garden centre, you’re not just purchasing plants – you’re supporting local jobs, sustainable practices and a network of people who love what they do.
Connecting families with nature
Garden Centres Australia is proud to partner with the One Tree Per Child initiative, an incredible program that encourages families to introduce children to the joys of gardening. Local Garden centres around the country offer the OTPC Let’s Get Gardening Activity Bags, filled with fun, hands-on activities designed to get kids away from screens and into the garden. These bags provide everything needed to nurture a love of nature – helping children learn about the environment while spending quality time outdoors with their families.
The joy of gardening together
Gardening isn’t just about growing plants; it’s about growing connections. Whether you’re planting flowers, vegetables or trees, working in the garden together creates wonderful family memories and teaches children valuable skills about patience, responsibility and sustainability. Plus, the sense of accomplishment they feel when their first seedling sprouts is priceless!
So next time you’re looking for a way to spend quality time with your family, why not head down to your local garden centre? Discover the joy of gardening, support small businesses and take home a One Tree Per Child Let’s Get Gardening Activity Bag to inspire the next generation of green thumbs. By supporting a GCA-member garden centre, you’re investing in your community, your environment and a lifelong love of gardening for generations to come.
Contact: Lisa McCann, General Manager, Garden Centres Australia Ph: 0438 387 677 | E: manager@gardencentresaustralia.com.au
Elevating your outdoor space with timeless planters for every style
By Mitch Burke
A well-designed outdoor space is more than just a garden – it’s an extension of your home, a sanctuary for relaxation, and a statement of style.
The right planter doesn’t just hold greenery; it enhances the landscape, creates balance, and brings a vision to life. At Mojay Pots, we have been helping Australians transform their indoor and outdoor spaces for over 40 years, offering high-quality pots that blend timeless design with modern durability.
Our collections are thoughtfully crafted with both form and function in mind. Whether it’s the classic Hidden Treasure collection, the lightweight versatility of Gardenlite, or the refined elegance of our Balmoral and Vaucluse ranges in GRC and Polyresin, every Mojay pot is designed to complement and enhance its surroundings. For those drawn to classic charm with a modern edge, our Sorrento glazed collection delivers rich tones and elegant finishes, making it the perfect statement piece for any setting.
We also offer custom-made pots, allowing landscapers, designers, and retailers to create one-of-a-kind pieces that fit their specific project requirements. Whether you need a bespoke size, shape, or finish, we can work with you to bring your vision to life.
For landscapers and designers, our extensive range of materials and finishes ensures flexibility across a variety of projects –whether you’re crafting a sleek urban terrace, a Mediterraneaninspired courtyard, or a lush green retreat. With a combination of durability, texture, and striking aesthetics, our pots are built to withstand the elements while adding depth and structure to any space.
For retail customers, Mojay Pots offers a range of stylish and durable options that bring character and sophistication to gardens, patios, and interiors alike. Whether you’re looking for a grand architectural planter or a small decorative piece, we have a diverse selection to suit every space and style.
Ready to find the perfect pots for your next project? Explore our latest collections and discover how Mojay Pots can bring new life to your spaces.
Visit us at www.mojaypots.com.au for retail and general collections. For commercial projects and custom orders, visit www.mojaypotscommercial.com.au
THE CHALLENGER ACHIEVABLE GARDENS DESIGN COMPETITION
Now in its 18th year, the Challenger Achievable Gardens Design Competition provides students and educational institutions with a platform to showcase their design talents and horticultural expertise, while advocating for achievable gardening practices and the use of diverse, high-quality plants in the landscape.
This year, students once again compete for the prestigious ‘Excellence Award’, engaging in a valuable learning journey that spans from conceptualisation and project coordination to the realisation of a show garden. Each compact garden plot mirrors the dimensions of an average balcony or small courtyard (five meters in width by four meters in depth), challenging participants to create designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and replicable by home gardeners. With a virtual budget capped at $8,000, emphasis is placed on attainability, ensuring that at least 50% of the garden consists of soft landscaping (plants).
The competition equips students with invaluable hands-on experience, laying a solid foundation for their future careers in horticulture and design. Past submissions have captivated
visitors with their innovative concepts, and this year’s entries are poised to deliver the same excitement. The Achievable Gardens remain a highlight for attendees, and we eagerly anticipate unveiling the outstanding student designs for this year’s showcase.
This year’s Achievable Gardens are brought to you by Challenger. Challenger Limited (Challenger) is an investment management firm focused on providing members with financial security for a better retirement.
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
2024 CHALLENGER DESIGN COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
BEST USE OF PLANTLIFE
ECLIPSE
DESIGN: Ellen Freeman >> Holmesglen
LOOK WITHIN
DESIGN: Madeleine Holyman & Andrew Sargood
>> London College of Garden Design
CREATIVE SPACE AWARD
EVER-GROWING GARDEN
DESIGN: Leigh Hudson >> Melbourne Polytechnic
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
JAPONICA-AUSTRALIS
DESIGN: Angelo Cammaroto >> Open Colleges
LIVE IN JOY
TANYA KATHLEEN CHISHOLM
SEE THE BEAUTY. WHEN WE TREAT OURSELVES WITH KINDNESS AND PAUSE TO APPRECIATE THE BEAUTY WITHIN AND AROUND US, JOY FLOWS IN RIPPLES.
Joy changes our interactions, moving through us in the way we view and connect with others and our environment.
My hope is that in enjoying living greenery we are inspired to care more and grow more, doing so in our individual expression: conservation care, planting trees, growing flowers, adding edibles between existing plants, having living walls and lively lawn alternatives. “It‘s just one tree,” said 7 billion people. Imagine if we all planted two.
This design’s foundation is a unique asymmetrical elliptical structure. The pergola sits lightly, supporting
the plant as the feature. The space within the pergola is cooled by an evergreen vine, steady from the solid paving in Mist Granite below, cocooning in shape while open to view and experience the garden. From this calmer place, represented by quieter colours, one can restore.
When we reset, we can soften the tracks that may be repeating in our minds and move to those of compassion. With this outlook, joy bursts out as vibrant colours, expanding and sparkling, highlighting the garden with plants that I believe capture the light and celebrate it.
BOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Persea americana Avocado
Citrus reticulata Mandarin
Citrus sinensis Orange
Citrus latifolia ‘Tahitian’ lime
Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei Crepe myrtle ‘Tuscarora’ ‘Tuscarora’
AUSTRALIA’S GREAT OUTDOORS MEETS YOUR NAN’S BACKYARD – A GARDEN FILLED WITH NOSTALGIC ELEMENTS OF CLASSIC AUSTRALIAN BOTANICAL LIFE, FROM NATIVE LANDSCAPES TO THE BACKYARDS WHERE CHILDHOOD MEMORIES WERE MADE.
Key
Nandina domestic ‘Lemon Lime’
Callistemon salignus ‘Perth Pink’
Australia’s great outdoors meets your grandma’s backyard.
Enjoy a billabong in your own backyard, surrounded by gum trees, as you relax on an old rocking chair.
Nothing beats walking barefoot on a cool, lush green lawn – except for pulling a cold one out of the esky before facing the bowler!
"Oi, I’m making G&Ts – can you grab a few lemons from out back?"
The prominent tree ferns create a canopy that filters light, casting playful shadows on the ground and enhancing the garden’s artistic qualities. The Coldstream pebble footpath provides a tactile experience, while the stepping stones leading to and around the plinth encourage exploration through the space.
Incorporating playful elements, such as a handcrafted corten steel wombat nestled within the foliage, brings a sense of local wildlife into the design. This whimsical feature not only adds character but also
STATES OF GREEN BEAUTIFULLY BLENDS FUNCTIONALITY WITH SENSORY ENGAGEMENT, DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM BOTH TROPICAL QUEENSLAND AND THE SOPHISTICATED STYLE OF MELBOURNE. AT THE HEART OF THIS SPACE, THE ARCHED SITTING PLINTH REPRESENTS HUMAN CONNECTION AND SERVES AS AN ANCHOR FOR THE DESIGN, OFFERING A SPACE OF REFLECTION AND CALM. THE WATER FEATURE ADDS DEPTH, INTRIGUE, AND A SOOTHING SOUNDSCAPE, ENHANCING THE OVERALL TRANQUIL ATMOSPHERE.
reinforces the connection to the surrounding natural environment.
The inclusion of indigenous plants like Midgem Berry connects the garden to ancestral flora, highlighting how indigenous foods can be grown in small spaces. This design’s thoughtful plant selection celebrates Australia’s rich, diverse landscape and provides a sensory journey, merging texture, beauty and functionality in a compact, immersive space.
BOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Dicksonia antarctica Soft Tree fern
Doryanthes palmeri Giant Spear Lily
Blechnum nudum Fishbone Water Fern
Doodia aspera Prickly Rasp Fern
Blechnum penna-marina Alpine Water Fern
Pellaea falcata Sickle Fern
Todea barbara Austral King Fern
Alocasia macrorrhizos Elephant Ears
Waterhousea floribunda Weeping Lilly Pilly
Austromyrtus dulcis Midgem Berry, Midyim berry
Acacia cognata ‘Mini Cog’River Wattle
Dichondra repens Kidney Weed
Scaevola aemula Native Fan flower
Scleranthus biflorusCushion Bush
Brachyscome multifida Cut leaf daisy
Blechnum minus Soft Water Fern
Lomandra longifolia Mat Rush
ALAFIA AUSTRALIS
MORAYO ADEYEMI
MELBOURNE POLYTECHNIC
“IT IS WELL DOWN UNDER” A HEALING GARDEN, LINKING AUSTRALIAN AND WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONS.
Alafia Australis is a phrase that borrows words from Yoruba and Latin, translating to “It is well down under”.
Just as previous waves of migration have shaped the contemporary Australian garden, the design showcases a more recent contribution to the country’s cultural tapestry; African vernacular design and its communal outlook.
The design accommodates newly arrived West Africans, particularly the elderly, who are in the process of acclimatising to the Australian environment. Included is a pavilion kitchen and workshop space that supports culinary, medicinal and aesthetic traditions, such as outdoor bulk cooking, apothecary and indigo fabric dying.
Taking cues from traditional African building techniques, the pavilion wall is made of rammed earth enclosed by raised garden beds filled with a mix of ornamental and edible plants found in both regions’ riparian and rainforest environments, making them suitable for damp gardens that receive adequate sun from the east.
Morayo has been on the journey of finding botanical parallels between the west coast of Africa and the east coast of Australia, as seeded by the Gondwana supercontinent. By taking this hybridised approach, the design creates opportunities for location-based healing through connection with nature, family and community.
KEYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Aa Adiantum aethipicum Native Maidenhair
Aca Alpinia caerulea ‘Atherton’Red Back Australian Ginger
Ac Archontophoenix Bangalow Palm cunninghamiana
Bs Blechnum spp Blechnum Fern
Ca Celosia argentea Lagos Spinach (Efo Shoko)
Ce Colocasia esculenta Taro
Cc Cyathea spp Cyathea Tree Fern
Ds Dendrobium spp Dendrobium Orchid
Dr Dichondra repens Kidney Weed cultivar
Ee Elaeocarpus eumundi Eumundi quandong
Hh Hibiscus heterophyllus Native Rosella
Hs Hibiscus sabdariffa Wild Rosella
Ia Indigofera australis Austral Indigo
Ps Platycerium superbum Staghorn Fern
Pt Pteris tremula Australian Brake
Sa Schefflera actinophylla Umbrella Tree
Tf Talinum fruticosum Waterleaf
Tl Tristaniopsis laurina ‘Luscious’Water Gum
Va Vernonia amygdalina Bitter Leaf
Wf Waterhousea floribunda Weeping Lily Pilly
KATIE FRASER BUSH BATHING
MELBOURNE POLYTECHNIC
IMAGINE YOU’VE HAD A STRESSFUL DAY OF CHORES, STRUGGLED WITH THE SUPERMARKET SELF-CHECKOUT, AND DRIVEN HOME IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. YOU GET HOME, MAKE A CUPPA, AND HEAD INTO THE GARDEN. YOU WALK UP A SANDY PATH AND POUR YOURSELF A BATH.
As soon as you immerse yourself, the cares of the day seep away. For the first time you are still. You listen to the sounds of birds, watch the branches move in the wind, and feel the breeze on your cheek. Your breathing slows and your mind calms. You are immersed in water, and in nature. Now you are ‘bush bathing.’
This garden is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku or ‘forest bathing,’ a form of therapeutic relaxation where sensory engagement with nature reduces stress and
improves wellbeing. This design creates a natural landscape in which you can experience all the therapeutic benefits of ‘bush bathing’ in a small urban garden.
The bath sits within a Fibonacciinspired spiral of tea tree fence posts, mimicking the growth patterns of both shells and plants. Almost all the plants in the garden are edible. Why not add some saltbush berries and karkalla to a cocktail you can enjoy while ‘bush bathing’…?
SPONSORS Speciality Trees • Warner’s Nurseries • Ecodynamics Nursery
• Otway Tea Tree • Newport Lakes Native Nursery • Gardening with Angus
• Taubmans • sarahfordyce.com • Golden Elm Design • RepurposeIt
KEYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Ac Atriplex cinerea Coastal saltbush
Bi Banksia integrifolia Coastal banksia
Cr Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla
Ca Correa alba White correa
Dr Dichondra repens Kidney weed
Eh Einadia hastata Berry saltbush
Fn Ficinia nodosa Knobby club rush
Hr Hypolepis rugosula Ruddy ground fern
Ll Leptospermum laevigatum Coastal tea tree
Lla Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly tea tree
L cv. Leptospermum cv. Tea tree
L sp. Lomandra sp. Mat rush
Lb Leucophyta brownii Cushion bush
Oa Olearia axillaris Coastal daisy bush
Pa Pelargonium australe Austral stork’s bill
Rc Rhagodia candolleana Seaberry saltbush
Sq Salicornia quinqueflora Beaded samphire
Sa Suaeda australis Austral seablite
Ti Tetragonia implexicoma Bower spinach
X sp. Xerochrysum sp.Strawflower
MI CASA ES TU
MIA ZIELINSKI
MELBOURNE POLYTECHNIC
THIS
GARDEN DESIGN IS AN INVITATION TO INCORPORATE A LITTLE BIT OF MEXICO INTO YOUR LIFE!
After travelling throughout Mexico in 2018 I was struck by the abundant creativity, rich culture and use of colour in all facets of life. Incredibly house proud, festive and welcoming, Mexican people embrace vibrant colours that are joyful and expressive and hold a sacred connection with the earth and plants that surround them. Every plant within this garden is native to Mexico and available in Australia as we have many similarities in climates. The xeriscaping plants are drought hardy and long lived, whilst the flowering plants can be interchanged annually creating a seasonal garden.
Inspired by both the ancient Aztec and Mayan civilisations through architecture and form, as well as modern Mexican influences of styling, this courtyard oasis is meant to transport you into another world.
Using traditional techniques and materials, the walls are all clad by hand with a mud mix called Cob. This material is sustainable, inexpensive and environmentally friendly.
The sunken courtyard instils a sense of calm whilst also invoking a feeling of wonder as the plants playfully reflect the light and offer up their beautiful blooms, textures and forms for you to admire.
SPONSORS Drought tolerant plants • The olde creamery • Repurpose it
• Lighting options • The Cape community farm • Girasole Yarra Valley
BOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Agave americana ‘medio picta alba’White striped century plant
Agave isthmensis Dwarf butterfly agave
Beaucarnia recurvata Ponytail palm
Bouteloua gracilis Blue gramma grass
Cosmos bipinnatus Mexican aster
Dahlia cv.
Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis Fireworks dahlia
Echeveria glauca Mexican snowball
Erigeron kravinskianus Mexican fleabane
Eryngium yuccifolium Rattlesnake master
Helianthus annuus Sunflower
Mammillaria hahniana Old lady cactus
Muhlenbergia capillaris Pink muhly grass
Zephranthes candida Autumn Zephyr lily
Pseudogynoxys chenopodioides Mexican flame vine
Rhipsalis baccifera Mistletoe cactus
Sanguisorba officianalis Great burnet
Schizachyrium scoparium Little bluestem
Sedum mexicanum ‘Gold mound’Mexican stonecrop
Sedum pachyphyllum Mexican jelly beans
MEDITERRANEAN MUSINGS
ADAM CLEMENTS
HOLMESGLEN
MELBOURNE HAS A PROUD HISTORY OF GREEK, ITALIAN AND OTHER MEDITERRANEAN CULTURES, THIS GARDEN IS A TESTIMONY TO THEM.
The Mediterranean has always been a huge inspiration to me. In this garden, I’ve attempted to bring a slice of the Mediterranean into Melbourne’s domestic gardens.
The colours needed to reflect this mood, with a focus on lighter, earthy-toned stonework, planter boxes, woodwork, and paints. The plant palette also mirrors these tones, while a mix of textures, leaf shapes, sizes, and topiary forms adds depth and interest.
All the plants in this garden are heat-tolerant – a necessity as the world gets warmer and both
domestic and larger gardens must adapt.
Melbourne’s climate is fortunately very similar to the Mediterranean, making this garden style highly achievable. This was also a great opportunity to showcase some of Australia’s native plants alongside classic Mediterranean species, demonstrating a rich level of biodiversity.
Our landscapes have the potential to embrace a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle on a deeper, more spiritual level, given our shared ethos of appreciating outdoor spaces.
KEYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Oe Olea europaea Olive
Cl Citrus limon ‘Eureka’Espaliered Lemon
Bp Brachychiton populneus Kurrajong
Aa Agave attenuata x Agave ocahui Agave ‘Blue Glow’
‘BACK TO BASICS’ IS A HEAVILY SHADED THERAPY GARDEN GROUNDED IN SIMPLICITY. THIS GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS PRIMITIVE AND SUSTAINABLE ELEMENTS, SURROUNDED BY LUSH PLANTINGS, AIMING TO PROVIDE AN IMPACTFUL SENSORY EXPERIENCE TO THE USER.
Inspiration for this design comes from time spent back home in coastal British Columbia’s temperate rainforests which can often feel Jungle-like, and the climate not dissimilar from that of Melbourne’s.
Re-using materials such as felled trees, river rocks, bamboo, and mulch from tree bark helps to offset the impact from the construction of this garden. Off-cut stone material, though a consequence of factory production, would have otherwise been discarded. These stones now offer a pathway to log seats and an
in-ground firepit, which encourages relaxation and socialisation. This setting takes you back to a primitive time, before the stress and overwhelm of the modern world came to be.
A shady garden need not be a boring garden; in fact, there is a lot to be gained from this garden aspect.
The heavy shade can increase the feeling of security while in the space, inducing a sense of calm.
Many plants that would perish from the sun can thrive here, and your mindfulness can too.
ELEMENTAL GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN NATURAL ELEMENTS AND HUMAN-MADE MATERIALS, EMPHASISING HOW EACH SHAPES THE OTHER OVER TIME.
The Elemental Garden illustrates how the forces of nature shape the built environment. Earth, water, fire, and air interact to create a balanced and harmonious landscape, reminding us of nature’s profound influence on human spaces.
Stone elements symbolise the strength and stability of the earth, grounding the garden with their timeless presence. Meanwhile, the carved water feature demonstrates how water, over time, can reshape even the hardest surfaces, reflecting the power of persistence and change.
The fire pit provides warmth and connection, serving as a central gathering point. Its flickering flames invite people to share stories, unwind,
and experience the comforting glow of fire – a symbol of life and energy.
Light and airy plants, such as silvery eucalypts, deep purple lavender, and gently swaying grasses, embody the element of air. Their movement in the breeze evokes a sense of calm and serenity, reminiscent of a tranquil morning bathed in soft light.
Materials like corten steel and weathered wood celebrate the beauty of natural aging. These elements show how time, weather, and the environment leave their mark, transforming human-made structures into enduring works of art that tell a story of evolution and harmony.
KEYBOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
E.ca Eucalyptus caesia Silver princes
E.pu Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby blue ‘Tree Form’
C.ac Calamagrostis x acutiflora Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster’
C.te Carex testacea Carex ‘Rusty Fountain’
E.sw Euphorbia silver swan Euphorbia Silver Swan ‘Wilcott’
L.lo Lomandra longifolia Lomandra
S.se Senecio serpens Dwarf chalk stick
T.ja Trachelospermum jasminoides Star jasmine
S.ca Senecia candicans Angel wings
S.la Stachys lanata Lamb’s Ear
V.he Viola hedercea Native violet
Z.te Zoysia tenuifolia Nomow grass
EVERGREEN ESCAPE
JAKE McCORKELL
THIS GARDEN IS A TRANQUIL AND WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT, BECKONING VISITORS TO UNWIND AND CONNECT WITH NATURE IN THIS CAREFULLY CRAFTED SPACE.
Step into the outdoor space on bluestone steppers, leading to a round paved area, featuring a firepit and a floating bench seat doubling as a raised garden bed. It is an ideal setting for gathering with friends and family, offering the opportunity to sit cosily around a crackling fire on those cold evenings, or enjoy a barbeque.
The raised garden bed seating space and BBQ bench is clad with compressed fibre cement panels to add a modern-industrial feel, and the benchtop is capped with
bluestone pavers. Spotted gum hardwood is used for the seating, tying in with the fence, creating continuous lines that draw the eye and give a natural and serene feel to the space.
Evergreen plants with a lush, verdant and relaxing feel surround you in this serene oasis.
Water dribbles into a steel bowl surrounded by bamboo, generating a calming water feature as you sit immersed in this evergreen escape.
BOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Arthropodium cirratum
Bergenia crassifolia
Bambusa textillis var, gracillis
Curio repens
Dichondra repens
Fatsia japonica
Ficus hillii
Liriope muscari
Ligularia reniformis
Magnolia grandifolia
Rosmarinus officinalis
Stachys byzanita
Thysanolaena latifolia
Viola hederacea
New Zealand Rock Lily
Pip Squeak
Slender Weave Bamboo
Blue Chalkstick
Kidney Weed
Paper Plant
Ficus Flash
Lily Turf
Tractor Seat
Greenback Magnolia
Prostrate Rosemary
Lambs Ear
Tiger Grass
Australian Violet
VERDANT
RANGI JAMIESON
ADVANCE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
THIS DESIGN IS MEANT TO SHOW OFF NATIVE AUSTRALIAN PLANTS AND CLASSIC MELBOURNE STYLED LANDSCAPING.
Victoria has always had a style of its own when it comes to outdoor settings. This design hopes to honour what our industry has historically put forth.
The garden should feel timeless, clean and familiar, by using a variety of native plants to shift the eye and create levels, colours, forms and layers. Every plant should feel intentional and important, as well as the space left to allow them to shine.
The blackbutt timber seat should feel homely and elegant all at the same time, allowing you to feel invited to relax in the space next to the fire pit for a moment of rest.
BOTANICAL NAMECOMMON NAME
Adenanthos x cunninghammi Albany wooly bush
Adenanthos sericeus Wooly bush
Correa Alba White Correa
Dichondra repens Kidney weed
All the lighting should feel alive, put in place to emphasise moments in the garden when dark. With enough light to liven the garden, but still allowing the area to feel romantic and moody.
Wandering bluestone round steppers, guiding through the garden should feel comfortable and classic. A staple in the diet of Melbourne landscapes, the pavers achieve a contrast in tone against the colour and vibrance of the plants and turf surrounding.
SPONSORS Granite Works • Advance Community College
• Lighting Options • Lilydale Instant Lawn
Erigeron compositus Cut leaf daisy
Grevillea whiteana x banksii Moonlight
Hymenosporum flavum Native frangipani
Stenotaphrum secundatum Buffalo grass
A SPACE FOR REFLECTION AND CONNECTION
2024/5 CERTIFICATE
BENDIGO KANGAN
III
HORTICULTURE STUDENTS
THIS GARDEN IS A SHARED SPACE WHERE TEACHERS AND STUDENTS COME TOGETHER, INSPIRED BY THE WISDOM OF ANCIENT INDIGENOUS AND CELTIC CULTURES. IT IS A PLACE OF WELLBEING, REFLECTION AND STORYTELLING – A CONNECTION TO BOTH, LAND AND COMMUNITY.
During the day, the garden offers a calm space for relaxation and conversation. At night, the walls glow with the warm hues of sunset, symbolising the spirit of the land. Silhouettes of termite mounds, reminiscent of ancient standing stones, represent community meeting place and the cycle of life, while the stars above and below guide the way.
Tall dark tree trunks stand strong, reflecting the resilience of the people over time, while the termite mounds symbolise the importance of community and connection to land. Bunjil, the wise eagle, and Waa,
the playful raven, watch over the garden, protecting and guiding. Concentric circles on the ground represent the circle of life, ripples in a pond, the universal symbol for many cultures. A life long journey for students of horticulture everywhere.
Here, teachers and students gather to share knowledge, yarning in the meeting place, surrounded by sustainable and nourishing food plants. It is a garden built on shared respect, learning, and connection, where everyone has a place in the circle.
