CONTRIBUTORS Carl Soderlund, Craig Taberner, James Nicklen, Daniel McCulloch, Nan Cleven, Bruce Yelland, Nancy Salinas
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CONTENTS
4 EXECUTIVE UPDATE
6 MIFGS 2025: ONE FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS
12 CHALLENGER ACHIEVABLE GARDENS
13 CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: ‘STATES OF GREEN’
14 PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS: ‘LIVE IN JOY’
15 2025 NGIV ANNUAL GOLF DAY CLASSIC
16 GRANDVIEW MONBULK: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
18 TAX AND CASH FLOW STRATEGIES FOR BUSINESS GROWTH
20 UNLOCKING PROFITABILITY: SMALL WAYS GREENLIFE BUSINESSES ARE SAVING TENS OF THOUSANDS
22 NEW MEMBER PROFILE: FAIR DINKUM FERTILIZERS
24 NEXTGEN: NAOMI HICKEY
25 OUTBACK PLANTS ACQUIRES MUST HAVE PERENNIALS FROM ARIS HORTICULTURE
26 A CAREER IN TEACHING HORTICULTURE: INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
28 TRADE DAY REPORT
Executive update
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV
Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV
As we wrap up an eventful start to the year, it’s a pleasure to reflect on what has already been a period full of inspiration, collaboration, and celebration for our industry.
March saw the return of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS), and what an incredible five days it was. Over 115,000 visitors passed through the gates, experiencing the very best of our industry – from world-class show gardens to awe-inspiring floral artistry and engaging industry-led activations. A sincere thank you goes out to all the designers, growers, exhibitors, volunteers, and industry professionals who contributed to making MIFGS 2025 such a success.
NGIV was proud to welcome many Members of Parliament during the event, providing meaningful advocacy opportunities and reinforcing the value of horticulture to Victoria’s economy, environment, and communities. A full recap of MIFGS can be found in this issue of Groundswell
Also in March, NGIV was thrilled to attend the Garden Inspirations Group (GIG) annual function – our first as a new GIG member – marking the group’s 30th anniversary. Held at The Manningham, this vibrant evening brought together independent garden centres, staff, and supporters from across Victoria and beyond. It was a timely opportunity to connect with members of the retail sector and celebrate three decades of collaboration and shared success. The evening also flowed perfectly into the following day’s Trade Day, where buyers and sellers once again came together to keep the wheels of our industry turning.
Our February and March Trade Days were both strong indicators of the momentum in our industry. February saw a great turnout and plenty of energy as buyers looked to stock up ahead
of autumn, while March had a relaxed but productive feel following the excitement of MIFGS. We were especially pleased to see several first-time stand holders join us at KCC Park, alongside long-standing exhibitors who continue to bring quality and variety to the market. Trade Day remains an unmatched opportunity to connect, do business, and stay in tune with the rhythm of the industry. We thank all our stand holders, buyers and staff who make this event a success month after month.
Beyond Trade Day, our calendar of events has been in full swing. Our International Women’s Day Breakfast at Kuranga Native Nursery was exceptionally well received, with attendees praising the event’s warm atmosphere, thoughtful discussions, and inspiring guest speakers. Held in the beautiful surrounds of Kuranga and expertly MCed by Cynthia Mahoney, the morning brought together women from across the industry to celebrate achievements, share stories, and connect over a shared passion for horticulture. A special thank you to our speakers and to Kuranga owners Alexa and Ben Clark for hosting such a memorable and meaningful event.
Looking ahead, we’re excited for our upcoming networking event, hosted at Norwood Industries. Building on the February Groundswell article that explored Norwood’s bold changes, the evening will feature a behind-the-scenes site visit, dinner, and a keynote conversation on packaging and sustainability. It’s shaping up to be a thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable evening – we hope to see you there.
We’re also excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 NGIV Horticulture Industry Awards. This year sees the introduction of three new categories – Allied Horticulture Business of the Year, Production Nursery of the Year, and Horticultural Retailer of the Year – joining our existing awards in celebrating excellence across the sector. We encourage all members to nominate a colleague or business doing great things.
As always, thank you to our members, partners, and supporters for your continued engagement and contributions. We’re proud of all we’ve achieved so far in 2025 and look forward to the many opportunities still to come.
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV Botanix Plant Supply
Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV
The 2025 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show: One for the history books
The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show has officially wrapped for 2025, and it’s safe to say this year was one for the history books. More than 115,000 visitors poured through the gates over five days, making it the most-attended event in more than two decades.
Held across the iconic Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, the Show was a spectacular showcase of garden design, floral artistry and innovation, brought to life by over 1,850 businesses from across the country. With more than 150,000 plants on display, it was a vibrant celebration of nature, creativity and community.
At its core, this year’s Show celebrated more than just garden design – it championed the connection between green spaces and wellbeing. Mental health and wellness were key themes woven throughout the program, from tranquil sensory gardens and meditative installations to nature-based education for children.
The Show’s focus on gardening as a form of “dirt therapy” resonated strongly with visitors and designers alike. New research released as part of the event revealed that over 60% of Australians experience less anxiety and improved mood
when gardening, while nearly half report feeling less stressed and significantly happier after time spent in the garden.
At the heart of the Show were the world-class Show Gardens, which this year carried a combined retail value of over $2 million. The highly anticipated awards saw Rob Cooper of Distinctive Gardens take out the prestigious City of Melbourne Award of Excellence for Best in Show with his garden ‘Ə’skāp’ – a striking modern space layered with native textures, structural plantings and a strong sense of calm.
‘Ə’skāp’ was also recognised with the Horticultural Media Association Award for Best Use of Plant Life, with judges praising its thoughtful balance of sculptural form and soft, immersive greenery. With a vine-covered pavilion, natural stone seating and generous use of ornamental grasses, the garden invited visitors to pause, reflect and reconnect with the natural world.
‘ Ə’skāp’ designed by Distinctive Gardens
In Ratio with Africa designed by Matt York
Nostalgia designed by Paul Pritchard Landscape Design
Between Moments designed by Ben Hutchinson Landscapes
Trent Cornish, Director of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, said this year’s event had set a new benchmark: “The creativity and passion on display this year has been phenomenal. From the grandeur of our Show Gardens to intimate balcony and border designs, and from traditional floral craftsmanship to bold new expressions – the Show has truly captured the energy and imagination of our garden-loving public,” he said.
Tulips proved the most popular bloom of the season, followed closely by native Australian flowers, as more than 5,000 stems made their way home with showgoers. Meanwhile, several feature plants showcased at the event, including the standout Sanguis Sorba, are now experiencing waitlists of up to eight months – a testament to the growing interest in diverse and statement-making plant choices.
Sustainability also remained central to the Show’s mission.
More than 600 cubic metres of organic waste were diverted from landfill during the event, thanks to a long-standing partnership with Bio-Gro. Since the collaboration began over five years ago, more than 3,000 cubic metres of green waste have been repurposed into compost and other eco-friendly garden products.
A record 18 emerging designers took part in the Border Garden competition, reflecting the Show’s growing commitment to nurturing the next generation of garden and floral designers. Education remained a core pillar of the program, with more than 14,000 school children attending to explore sustainability, horticulture and biodiversity.
New additions to the Show this year proved hugely popular, with the debut of the Bloom Room – a bold, immersive space featuring interactive floral installations – and Floral Fridays, which invited guests to express themselves through wearable flowers, DIY bouquets and creative floral styling. These activations added a fun, fresh dimension to the traditional garden show format and were a hit across all ages.
Craig Taberner and Carl Soderlund with the Hon. Ros Spence, Minister for Agriculture, and Michaela Settle MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Development and Agriculture, pictured here with Paul Pritchard in his evocative Show Garden ‘Nostalgia’
The Hon. Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport, Major Events, Environment and Outdoor Recreation, with Rob Cooper and Craig Taberner
Beyond Rob Cooper’s award-winning garden, other standout highlights included Paul Pritchard’s nostalgic, mid-centuryinspired garden Nostalgia in partnership with Dementia Australia, which received the Mark Bence Construction Award for its heartfelt tribute to memory, care and connection. Christian Jenkins returned with Yutori, a serene Japanese-inspired landscape designed to embody calm, reflection and the art of slowing down. Featuring a sauna, ice bath and natural materials, the garden was a striking reminder of the role green spaces play in emotional and physical wellbeing.
Ben Hutchinson’s Between Moments offered a similarly tranquil experience, anchored by a natural rock pool and soft planting that invited pause and presence. Matt York’s In Ratio with Africa explored cross-cultural garden traditions, resilience and resourceful design, while popular favourites Brent Reid and Jason Hodges returned with their respective creations ODE and Doable, delivering accessible, practical and deeply personal takes on modern Australian gardening.
In the Floral Design Competition, Lynne Dallas Flower Design was awarded Best in Floral Design for her stunning display, which blended classic floral elegance with modern artistry –a clear crowd favourite in the Great Hall of Flowers.
From small-space planting to large-scale landscapes, the 2025 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show proved that beauty, sustainability and innovation can thrive in every corner of the garden.
For NGIV, the Show represented much more than just record crowds – it was a powerful reminder of what makes Victoria’s horticulture industry so special: creativity, community and collaboration.
From our new Grow Together Garden to the ever-popular Achievable Gardens, the bustling Green Room, and strong political engagement, NGIV was front and centre across the five-day event, helping to celebrate, advocate and inspire.
The Grow Together Garden
Located in a prime position this year, the Grow Together Garden was one of NGIV’s biggest activations at the Show. Designed as an immersive and educational hub, the Grow Together Garden brought to life the journey of plants, with interactive displays and industry information.
Supported by Foodcube in partnership with the United African Farm, the centrepiece of the Grow Together Garden was an
Ivars Bergmanis of NuNord, with the resident Ambassador of Latvia Marģers Krams, Ben Scoble and Craig Taberner
Plant of the Year 2025 winners had a strong presence at the Show
Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Nina Taylor, with Craig Taberner and students
African-inspired urban farm that celebrated Australia’s cultural and culinary diversity. The garden invited visitors to explore a fascinating selection of plants with cultural significance to African communities.
Many NGIV members contributed plants, materials and time to make the Grow Together Garden such a success. Your support not only made the space possible – it ensured it was engaging, informative and educational.
The Green Room
Just a short stroll from the Grow Together Garden was the NGIV Green Room – an exclusive space for members, partners, industry and media. For those invited behind the rope, the Green Room provided a relaxed and welcoming environment for meetings, networking, and well-earned breaks.
Over the course of the week, the Green Room became a hive of activity and conversation. We were thrilled to welcome a wide range of visitors including growers, garden designers, suppliers, retailers, educators, students, and media, each bringing their unique perspectives to discussions about the industry.
Crucially, the Green Room also hosted several important advocacy meetings, helping NGIV to continue its work in representing our members at the highest levels of government.
The Challenger Achievable Gardens
A perennial favourite, the Achievable Gardens competition once again proved a highlight of the Show. Run in partnership between NGIV and key education providers, the competition invites students studying horticulture, landscape design, and construction to create small-scale, sustainable gardens on-site
This year, 12 stunning gardens were installed by students from across Victoria, each demonstrating ingenuity, skill, and an eye for environmental sustainability. The Achievable Gardens offer an invaluable real-world experience for the students involved and are a major stepping stone for many into successful horticultural careers.
Visitors were captivated by the designs, with many surprised to learn the gardens were created by students. The competition not only showcases emerging talent – it highlights the strength and quality of our training providers and the importance of supporting horticultural education.
The coveted Excellence Award was awarded to ‘States of Green’ by Zoe Rush and Emily Rubira of the London College of Garden Design.
With students from Chisholm Institute, London College of Garden Design, Melbourne Polytechnic, Holmesglen Institute, The Gordon, Advance Community College and Bendigo Kangan participating this year, we extend our congratulations to them and thank their sponsors and our supporters for making the Achievable Gardens possible once again.
Engaging politicians and advocating for industry
MIFGS 2025 also gave NGIV a valuable platform to continue its policy and advocacy work, with many Members of Parliament visiting the Show across the week. Through guided tours, informal conversations and presentations at the Green Room, NGIV was able to highlight key issues impacting our members, including workforce development, sustainability, and the need for committed industry support.
Our presence at the Grow Together Garden and the Achievable Gardens made it easy for policymakers to see the value of horticulture up close – not just as a business sector, but as a key contributor to public health, green infrastructure and the Victorian economy.
We were pleased to see genuine interest and support from both sides of government, and we’ll continue to build on these conversations in the months ahead.
A collective effort and a major success
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible support of NGIV’s members, partners, and volunteers. From those who contributed to the Grow Together Garden and the Green Room, to the trainers and students behind the Achievable Gardens – your involvement ensured that NGIV’s presence at MIFGS was strong, visible and impactful.
It was also fantastic to see so many member businesses represented across the Show, whether through retail displays, landscape gardens, floral installations, or education stands. MIFGS is one of our most powerful public touchpoints, and this year’s event has left an enduring impression on tens of thousands of attendees.
NGIV is proud to play a central role in bringing our industry to the public, and we look forward to continuing that work with your support.
Thank you again to everyone involved – we’ll see you at MIFGS 2026!
2025 Winners – Show Garden/ Feature Garden
City of Melbourne Award of Excellence for Best in Show
Ə’skāp designed by Distinctive Gardens
Gold Show Garden
Ə’skāp designed by Distinctive Gardens
Nostalgia designed by Paul Pritchard Landscape Design
Silver Gilt Show Garden
In Ratio with Africa designed by Matt York
Silver Show Garden
Inner Journey designed by Christian Jenkins Landscape
Design and Margaret River Trees
Australian Idyll designed by Platylobium Landscape Design
ODE designed by Candeo Design
Doable designed by Jason Hodges
Yutori designed by Christian Jenkins & Bailyn Jenkins
Between Moments designed by Ben Hutchinson Landscapes
HMA Award for the Best Use of Plant Life
Ə’skāp designed by Distinctive Gardens
Mark Bence Construction Award
Nostalgia designed by Paul Pritchard Landscape Design
Landscaping Victoria Boutique Garden Award
1st Place – RE-SET designed by Earthcore Landscapes (Gold)
2nd Place – Room to Breathe designed by Lone Pine
Landscapes (Silver)
3rd Place – The New Nature designed by Michael Rochelle, Carla Perry & Alistair Kirkpatrick (Bronze)
Avenue of Achievable Gardens Award of Excellence
States of Green by Zoe Rush, Emily Rubira from London College of Garden Design
THE CHALLENGER ACHIEVABLE GARDENS
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
STATES OF GREEN
DESIGN: Zoe Rush & Emily Rubira >> London College of Garden Design
BEST USE OF PLANTLIFE
MEDITERRANEAN MUSINGS
DESIGN: Adam Clements >> Holmesglen
CREATIVE SPACE AWARD
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
ALAFIA AUSTRALIS
DESIGN: Morayo Adeyemi >> Melbourne Polytechnic
LIVE IN JOY
DESIGN: Tanya Kathleen >>
Chisholm
Memory: Summer Holidays by Jason Hedley and Abbas Ullah, Chisholm
Bush Bathing by Katie Fraser, Melbourne Polytechnic
Mi casa es tu casa by Mia Zielinski, Melbourne Polytechnic
Elemental Garden by Joel Emmins, Holmesglen
Back To Basics by Mitchell Reynolds, Holmesglen
Evergreen Escape by Jake McCorkell, The Gordon
Verdant by Rangi Jamieson, Advance Community College
Designers, Bendigo TAFE
Celebrating Excellence: Winner of the Challenger Achievable Gardens
Excellence Award ‘States of Green’
Winner of the Excellence Award, ‘States of Green’ by Zoe Rush and Emily Rubira of London College of Garden Design, beautifully blended functionality with sensory engagement, drawing inspiration from both tropical Queensland and the sophisticated style of Melbourne. Zoe and Emily shared some of their experience of the competition:
“The overall experience of MIFGS was incredible. It was a challenging and great experience to work alongside up and coming and established designers. The comradery from the experienced show garden designers and their teams, along with their willingness to share knowledge and words of support and encouragement, made the experience unforgettable.
“As this was our first endeavour at building a competition garden, we feel very accomplished for the quality we were able to produce in not only the planting but the construction elements of the garden too.
“Preparation and a clear plan of attack was key in having everything come together.
“Staying true to our design and vision, and not allowing people’s opinions to change or influence what we had set out to accomplish, allowed us to bring the vision to life.
“Creating strong relationships with our suppliers allowed us to ensure we have everything we needed to produce a winning garden.
“The positive response was overwhelming! It was incredible just how many people stopped to talk, comment and ask questions about our garden. Having many comment that the garden feels like such a relaxing calm space was beautiful, as that was our intention with this design. It was an incredible feeling knowing we were able to create a space that evoked the atmosphere intended.
“People were surprised you could create such a green and lush garden using native plants. Lots of people asked how the arch was made, where the wombat was from and “What’s the purple flower?” … Answer: Scaevola aemula.
“We put an incredible amount of hard work and effort into this project, so to be acknowledged and recognised for this and our attention to detail was a feeling of pure elation. Especially as we were a very small team, it made the win all that much sweeter. Being able to say that we won not only a gold medal but also the excellence award will be incredible recognition, enhancing our reputation in the industry, as we set out on our individual budding careers in landscape design.
“It was encouraging to see so many women designers in the 2025 Challenger Achievable Gardens competition, hopefully it means there will be a strong female designer presence in the show gardens of the future. We would absolutely encourage others to enter the competition! It’s a wonderful experience to grow and develop as a designer and create great relationships within the industry.”
The Challenger Achievable Gardens People’s Choice Award Winner: ‘Live in Joy’ by Tanya Kathleen
Tanya Kathleen’s garden ‘Live in Joy’ asked viewers to see the beauty. The design’s foundation was a unique asymmetrical elliptical structure; the pergola sitting lightly, supporting the plant as the feature. The space within the pergola was cooled by an evergreen vine, steady from the paving below. Tanya shared some of the insights she took away from her experience in the competition.
What were some of the things you learned through the process of designing and building your garden?
You need to be firm and flexible, the elements you decide which applies to will differ for each individual, perhaps for each garden you design. Adaptability is important, some of the problems I encountered in the lead up and also the build, I turned into features of the design. Patience and self-compassion –everything took a long time as I was learning how to do each part whilst doing it. There are definitely easier and smarter ways to carry things out – for example, I made a collage to produce my design, which means any changes involve recreating that part, rather than a direct change in a computer program. I’d forgotten that I enjoy drawing, it has been eons but now I’ll incorporate doing it for pleasure. There are many aspects that impact upon one another, especially how something is made, so collaboration and understanding with your team is so important. I loved the interactions with our growers and suppliers, going to Trade Day, Trials Week, Nurseries and Showrooms. Utilising skills from my previous industries helped me feel some familiarity in something I had never done before – this is the first garden I have designed and brought to life.
What inspired you to enter the competition?
I realised not entering would be telling myself I didn’t believe I could do it. After such growth for the year, that felt like it would be a backward step.
The last time I created a garden design, I was 14 and it was for art class. So I decided I wanted to have the experience of submitting a concept drawing. I really enjoyed the free reign and produced it in 3 different colourways with descriptions,
photos and plant suggestions for each. Then I was so fortunate for mine to be one of the two concepts chosen to represent Chisholm and it grew from there.
Would you encourage others to enter the competition?
Absolutely! At all stages it is a chance to extend yourself and to see what you would like to create and think on how you would go about delivering it. Making your art is always worthwhile.
How did you feel winning the People’s Choice Award? What does it mean to you?
All of the Challenger Achievable Gardens were amazing and such a gorgeous showcase of individuality. Thank you to everyone who voted. There were so many people whom when I asked if they had voted for their favourite garden yet said they would need to walk back around again to decide, which is such a testament to the effort every student went to.
I am intensely grateful for this award. I recognise it has not been won solely on my own. The encouragement, dedication, skill and professionalism of our teachers in the lead up and during the build and event has been brilliant, especially Bec Bennett, Anita Meister and Shaun Leeming. So the award is not just for me, it is for all of those who came together to make this garden happen – the propagators, the growers, the nursery teams, the landscapers, the educators, the delivery personnel and the cheer squad. It is such a brilliant tapestry we create to bring an idea to life. Together, we get to make spaces beautiful What an industry! What an amazing honour!
Is there anyone you would like to thank or anything else you’d like to say about your garden or experience at MIFGS?
Thank you to all of our generous sponsors, the show would not operate without you. A special thank you to Merrywood Plants, JD Propagation, PlantNet and Mulga Native Plants for providing the bulk of the plants in my garden and at such high quality. Everyone I encountered during the lead up, the build, show and bump out phases were warm, encouraging and offered advice and assistance, it really was a wonderful time. Hugs to my cheer squad, your guidance, patience and pep talks are enriching.
Thank you to all the teams at NGIV and IMG for producing such a unique show, special to so, so many. It has been an incredible experience to be a part of this.
2025 NGIV Annual Golf Day Classic
NGIV’s Annual Golf Day returned on Friday 14 February 2025, bringing members together at the beautiful Yering Meadows Golf Course. The weather was overcast with patches of sunshine, making for a pleasant and relaxed day on the greens.
Teams competed in both 9- and 18-hole Ambrose formats, with plenty of friendly banter and networking along the way. A hearty lunch followed the round, where prizes were awarded and stories from the fairway were shared.
Congratulations to our 18-hole winners Howard Fox, Paul Cruickshank, Lisa Jonas and Rod Okeby; and to our 9-hole winners Sarah Burgess, Karen Robbins, Tayla Robbins and Lizzie Earl.
All NGIV members are invited and encouraged to join us at our regular industry networking events. For more information, visit ngiv.com.au/events.
PLACE WINNERS
18 holes – 1st Howard Fox, Paul Cruickshank, Lisa Jonas, Rod Okeby
18 holes – 2nd Will McIntosh, Pete Mclean, Matt Mansfield, Lewis Mitchell
18 holes – 3rd Craig Taberner, James Daley, Brendan Harper
Grandview Monbulk Pty Ltd: Celebrating 40 years 1985–2025
By Linda Sands with James Nicklen
Back in 1980, Dave Sands began his journey in the horticultural industry. With big ambitions to work for himself, he left school at fifteen to start his nursery apprenticeship at Brooks Nursery in Monbulk – just down the road from his family’s property, ‘Grandview.’ The land had been in the family since 1900, with Dave’s father growing chestnut trees on the site.
In 1985, after completing his apprenticeship, Dave established his own business, now known as Grandview Monbulk. With the full support of his parents, he was given the opportunity to use part of the family land to set up a small propagation house and potting area – marking the beginning of what would become a long and successful venture. One propagation house soon turned into two, and as demand grew, more land was levelled to accommodate expansion.
Over time, five propagation houses were built, each more advanced than the last. For over 30 years, Grandview focused on large-scale contract propagation for another nursery, but recently, the business has shifted toward growing more for its own use. Currently, about 30% of their stock is self-propagated, with plans to increase this in the coming years. The nursery also sources quality tube stock from trusted growers such as Bangalay, Greenhills, and Mansfield’s – relationships that have been cultivated over decades.
Investment in infrastructure has been a key part of Grandview’s success. Over the years, propagation houses have been upgraded with fog, misting systems, grow lights, and bottom heat. The latest house features automated retractable thermal screens that adjust based on light and heat levels. Each house is fine-tuned for humidity control to suit different crops yearround. Automation has also played a big role in irrigation, with new systems allowing climate adjustments and remote watering To ensure reliability in the hills, where power outages are a concern, a large generator was installed – providing peace of mind and the ability to be activated remotely when needed.
Dave and Grandview Monbulk have faced inevitable challenges From drought and unpredictable weather to pests, diseases, and rising costs, every year brings new tests. “It’s about working together to find solutions,” Dave explains. “We’ve implemented an Integrated Pest Management plan and adjusted our potting list to include more drought-tolerant varieties. We even had to
install a deer-proof fence around one of our sites to keep out roaming deer and wallabies.” Tackling these challenges head-on has been crucial to Grandview’s long-term success.
Adapting to market trends has always been a priority. Grandview continues to expand its stock list, selecting new lines that meet the needs of retailers and landscapers. Their evolving website includes an up-to-date image gallery, allowing customers to see ‘live’ photos of current stock. Additionally, through EvergreenConnect, customers can order directly from the latest availability list online.
Grandview has been an NGIV member for over 30 years and is currently a Bronze Partner. Their long-standing presence at NGIV Trade Day has helped them build strong relationships with customers and reach new businesses. “Providing good communication with buyers from the initial order taking through to delivery is important,” Dave says.
“We only have a small number of staff, but they are an incredible team at Grandview – from our production staff with Jodie, Nan, Emily, Tom and Tahlen through to customer service and sales with Kelly and Ted. Alongside Linda in office management and delivery truck driver Pete, we have a well-oiled team. What’s great is how they are trained in all areas of the nursery and can roll across many different tasks in any given week. Without them, we would not have the success we have today. Through hard work, ongoing improvement and a positive outlook we hope to continue the trend of quality products and satisfied customers”.
The future of Grandview Monbulk remains bright. Dave and Linda’s son, Tom, has been involved in the business since he was young, starting through the Monbulk College VCAL program. Working two days a week at the nursery, he learned the ropes alongside his parents and team members. Over the past eight years, he has grown into a key part of the production and sales process, with an eye on one day taking over the business – if Dave ever retires!
As Grandview Monbulk celebrates 40 years in the industry, the business’ success is a testament to the vision, hard work, and resilience of Dave and his team. From humble beginnings, their journey has been one of dedication, commitment, and passion for the industry.
Current day propagation and growing areas on the property known as Grandview
Major excavation work on a site to construct multispan green houses in the late 80s
The first and most basic of five propagation houses erected on site in 1985
Framing going up for plastic houses, constructed by Monbulk Rural. One of the early jobs they produced in the area
Tax and cash flow strategies for business growth
By Daniel McCulloch, SMART Business Solutions
Running a business requires careful planning, smart decision-making, and a strong financial strategy. Without the right approach, challenges can arise that make growth difficult. Tax planning and cash flow management are key elements in maintaining stability and ensuring long-term success. When handled effectively, they help businesses remain financially resilient and prepared for whatever comes next.
The role of tax planning in business success
Tax planning isn’t just about ticking off compliance requirements; it’s about cultivating financial efficiency to help your business flourish. Your tax accountant should play a key role in tax planning, helping you identify opportunities, stay compliant, and implement strategies that minimise unnecessary losses while keeping your business financially healthy.
A smart tax plan strategically trims down tax liabilities, allowing businesses to hold onto more of their earnings and reinvest in future expansion or development.
Key tax planning strategies
1. Optimising business structure – The right business structure (sole trader, partnership, company, or trust) has significant tax implications. Regularly reviewing this structure ensures it aligns with the business’s financial goals and minimises tax exposure.
2. Timing income and expenses – Adjusting the timing of income recognition and expense payments can help manage tax obligations. For instance, bringing forward necessary expenses before the end of the financial year can reduce taxable income.
3. Leveraging deductions and concessions – Small business tax concessions, depreciation incentives, and other allowable deductions can significantly reduce taxable income.
4. Superannuation contributions – Strategic super contributions not only secure financial futures but also provide tax benefits. Making additional super contributions before the financial year’s end can reduce taxable income.
5. Utilising tax offsets and credits – R&D tax offsets, investment allowances, and other government incentives provide opportunities to reduce tax liabilities while fostering business innovation and growth.
The critical importance of cash flow planning
While tax planning optimises profit retention, effective cash flow planning ensures that businesses have the liquidity to meet ongoing obligations and seize growth opportunities. A business can be profitable on paper but still struggle with cash shortages if cash flow is mismanaged.
Understanding the cash flow cycle
Cash flow is not simply about income and expenses; it’s about the timing of cash moving in and out of the business. The cash conversion cycle measures how quickly a business can convert its investments (inventory, receivables) into actual cash. The shorter the cycle, the better the liquidity position.
Strategies for improving cash flow
1. Create a cash flow forecast – Forecasting cash flow over a 12-month period allows businesses to anticipate cash shortages and surpluses, ensuring proactive decision-making.
2. Manage debtor days – The longer customers take to pay invoices, the greater the risk to cash flow. Implementing clear credit terms, incentivising early payments, and using automated invoice reminders can significantly reduce debtor days.
3. Control expenses and overheads – Regularly reviewing business expenses and cutting unnecessary costs (without compromising on quality or efficiency) is a crucial strategy for maintaining healthy cash flow.
4. Negotiate supplier terms – Extending payment terms with suppliers while accelerating collections from customers helps bridge cash flow gaps.
5. Consider Alternative Financing Options – When cash flow gaps arise, having access to short-term financing options, such as business overdrafts or invoice financing, can provide flexibility.
How tax planning and cash flow planning work together
A common mistake business owners make is treating tax planning and cash flow management as separate financial activities. In reality, they are deeply interconnected.
> Unexpected tax bills can drain cash reserves, leaving businesses scrambling to cover essential expenses. Planning for tax liabilities throughout the year ensures businesses set aside sufficient funds.
> Taking advantage of tax deductions affects cash flow, as business expenses must be incurred before tax savings are realised.
> Delaying tax payments without planning can lead to penalties and interest charges, exacerbating financial strain.
Leveraging professional advice
Understanding tax laws and maintaining healthy cash flow requires expertise. Working with an experienced accountant or business advisor ensures you have the right strategies in
place to manage tax obligations, optimise cash flow, and support your financial goals. With professional guidance, your business can remain stable, adaptable, and positioned for long-term success.
Are you ready to take control of your tax planning and cash flow? Book a Complimentary 30-minute Discovery Meeting with Smart Business Solutions today. We offer face to face or online consultations to discuss tailored strategies that will strengthen your business’s financial foundation.
Unlocking profitability: Small ways greenlife businesses are saving tens of thousands
By Bruce Yelland and Nancy Salinas, Moshie Australia
In the last 12 months, Moshie has helped growers, retailers and allied businesses find $9.2 million in savings through our Business Diagnostic and Financial Health Check service. Most of these savings come from simple, everyday adjustments – little things that you could start doing in your own business, today. By focusing on just one area at a time, you can begin to make small improvements that result in immediate savings for your business.
When you’re deep in the day-to-day, figuring out where to focus your energy isn’t always easy. But in our work with businesses across the greenlife industry, we’ve noticed a pattern: the biggest improvements usually come from the simplest changes.
Review your processes to maximise your team’s productivity
Most nursery businesses don’t have a clear picture of what it really costs to deliver a product or service. The issue isn’t always what you’re spending – often it’s how work gets done. If your team is spending time fixing mistakes, doing things twice, searching for stock, or standing around waiting for the next job, you’re losing money.
The quickest wins often come from breaking down how each job is done. Try walking through just one process, from start to finish, with your team. Are they double-handling? Are they guessing what to do next? Is the way things are set up actually making their job harder?
When you involve your team in reviewing how things are done, you’ll often find small, practical changes that make a big difference – fewer delays, fewer mistakes, and more value from the team you already have.
Make time to review your finances
When you’re busy running the day-to-day, it’s easy to push finances to the side – but keeping an eye on your numbers regularly can save you money.
If you only look at your books every couple of months, you risk missing small issues that can quickly become big, expensive problems. It doesn’t have to take long – but making it a habit means you’re more likely to stay in control, spot problems early, and make smarter, faster decisions that help protect your bottom line.
The more you understand your financial position, the better prepared you’ll be to steer your business towards success.
Get the most out of the systems you’re already paying for
Whether it’s inventory, payroll, rostering, or invoicing – all of the tools your business is paying for should be making life easier, not adding to your workload. If your systems feel clunky or aren’t giving you the insights you need, it’s worth taking a step back to see if they’re being used to their full potential, or consider the value of an upgrade.
In many cases, it’s not about replacing the system – it’s about using it better. We regularly find businesses sitting on features they didn’t know they had access to, like built-in reporting, scheduling tools, or automation options that can streamline routine tasks and free up time.
If you’re not sure how to begin exploring those features, ask for help and make sure your business is actually benefiting from the systems it’s already investing in. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel – sometimes, a small tweak or training session is all it takes to unlock major improvements.
Streamline your purchasing process
One of the simplest ways to improve procurement is by designating a single person to oversee it. This doesn’t just reduce duplication – it ensures a more focused and effective approach, often resulting in better deals and improved supplier relationships.
By assigning one person to manage purchases, you’re building consistency in how your business handles suppliers. This creates opportunities to negotiate more favourable terms and build stronger, long-term relationships that can help you save money over time.
Also review your suppliers regularly – at least once a year – using criteria that includes more than just cost. Are they delivering in full and on time every time? Are they working with you to find solutions to your business issues? Are they providing you with innovative products? Do they support you when times are tough?
Recruitment & onboarding: Get it right from the start
Hiring mistakes are expensive – not just financially, but in time, team morale, and productivity. That’s why having a solid recruitment and onboarding process is so important. Write clear, specific job descriptions that outline not just the responsibilities, but the kind of person who will thrive in your team.
When someone joins the business, onboarding shouldn’t stop at forms and policies. Use those first few weeks to set expectations, embed values, and help new hires understand how their role contributes to the bigger picture. Tools like DiSC assessments can also help make sure your new team members are a good match in terms of working style and communication
Recruitment isn’t just about filling a role – it’s about finding the right fit.
If something’s not working, don’t wait. Address issues early –ideally before the probation period ends – so you can coursecorrect without unnecessary costs or disruption.
The impact of clear leadership and defined roles
Unclear leadership often leads to confusion, duplicated work, delays, and poor decisions – all of which cost money, chipping away at time and profits.
Leaders need to model the behaviours and standards they expect from their teams – it sets a clear tone for how the business needs to operate day to day. Effective leadership is about creating clarity, building trust, and empowering your team to make informed decisions that support your business goals.
This begins with role clarity. Every team member should know what they’re accountable for, what success looks like, and where they fit within the broader business. When people understand their responsibilities and how their work contributes to the bigger picture, they’re more confident, efficient, and engaged – less time is wasted and more gets done.
Unlocking productivity and profitability
We know that clarity can be the key to unlocking profitability. We’re passionate about helping horticultural businesses find where time, money, and energy are being wasted, and about providing the practical support that you need to fix it.
If you’d like to chat, have any questions or want to know more about our Financial Health Check Service, let’s talk! We’ll help you find at least $35,000 in savings – guaranteed.
Moshie contact information
Bruce Yelland | e: bruce@moshie.biz | m: 412 241 801
Josh Kyne | e: josh@moshie.biz | m: 0451 283 715
www.moshie.com.au
New Member Profile: Fair Dinkum Fertilizers
For over 23 years, Fair Dinkum Fertilizers has been driven by a passion for sustainable, highquality plant nutrition. Proudly Australian, they use 100% locally harvested seaweed from the pristine West Coast of Tasmania to produce premium seaweed-based and eco-friendly fertilisers. Their products are designed to enrich soil health, promote vigorous plant growth, and support eco-friendly farming and gardening practices.
What makes your business unique?
Fair Dinkum Fertilizers has had a long-standing commitment to producing the best seaweed-based crop nutrition solutions for both home gardening, horticultural and agricultural applications. We also manufacture zero poison snail and slug baits, developed in Australia for Australian conditions, which goes under the “Eradicate” branding.
Our company specialises in using seaweeds only derived from Australian waters, offering natural and organic options for plant nutrition.
We have some 30 different formulations within our range, as there is no one product that can do everything. There are many nutritional needs for the vast range of crops and growing needs in Australia.
What is your stock range?
We’ve got a bit of everything across home gardening, agriculture, horticulture, and pest control. A few highlights from the home garden range include Garden Feast, Indoor Plant Food, Seaweed Gold, and Bloom Boom, as well as our Super Munch Seaweed Granules. On the agricultural side,
products like Eco Stim, MultiFeed, and our Fish Emulsion offer great natural nutrition for crops and pasture.
For horticulture, our Lawn & Plant Starter, Lawn Greener, and Tomatoes products are popular choices, and of course, our Eradicate and Eradicate ECO snail and slug baits remain popular for their pet safety and environmental friendliness.
For a comprehensive overview and detailed information on each product, you can visit Fair Dinkum Fertilizers’ website.
Who is a typical Fair Dinkum Fertilizers customer?
We supply a vast range of people and groups. Whether they be from a community garden, home gardener, horticulturalist, agricultural grower or running a retail store, the most common reason people come to us, is to source a more natural alternative to growing and protecting their crops, with a desire to move away from more conventional chemical fertilisers.
Have you worked with any NGIV members before?
I’m sure we have worked with many members before, but probably unknown to us, as we rub shoulders with many different people in the industry, both end users and trade clients
How do you market yourselves to your customers?
Fair Dinkum Fertilizers employs a multifaceted marketing strategy to promote products. First and foremost, we highlight the sustainability and quality of our products, especially our use of sustainably harvested Tasmanian kelp. We also place a big emphasis on offering variety – our wide range means we can provide tailored options for a range of needs and applications.
Do you have any long-term plans for your business?
We’ve got a few key goals: keep sourcing responsibly, continue investing in research and development, and keep expanding the product range to meet emerging needs. We’ve got a great team behind the scenes – over 60 years of combined experience – working across production, R&D, sales and marketing. Everyone plays a part in ensuring our products are effective, consistent, and easy to access.
Tell us about a little bit about your core team and skills.
Fair Dinkum Fertilizers’ core team possesses a diverse set of skills essential for producing high-quality, sustainable fertilisers. Combined we have over 60 years of experience in our staff. Core roles include:
> Research & Development: Innovating and refining product formulations.
> Production: Overseeing sustainable manufacturing with strict quality control.
> Marketing and Sales: Promoting through Instagram, Facebook, and store visits to maintain strong customer relationships.
How can NGIV members learn more about your products and services?
You can explore Fair Dinkum Fertilizers through several avenues: Visit our website at www.fairdinkumfertilizers.com. Follow our Instagram and Facebook accounts for updates on products, gardening tips, and company news. You can also contact us directly via email at sales@fairdinkumfertilizers.com or call us at 03 9357 5488 to request further information.
Why did you decide to become an NGIV member?
After careful consideration, we saw a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share our commitment to sustainable growth. Becoming part of NGIV allows us to engage with a community that aligns with our values while accessing invaluable resources and support.
We look forward to a strong and lasting partnership with NGIV for many years to come.
Interview with NextGen NAOMI HICKEY
Summit Open Spaces
Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at a company called Summit Open Spaces, which has a wide range of teams experienced in arboriculture, grounds maintenance, horticulture, rail and roads maintenance, parks and gardens, bush regeneration, graffiti removal, and litter control. My current position is Grounds Maintenance Officer. I feel very lucky to be able to see the different sides of our company and how we work as a whole.
How long have you worked there and how has your role progressed in that time?
I’ve been at Summit for about a month now. In that short time, my role has already progressed significantly. I started working with the parks and gardens team and have since moved into a mowing crew. This shift has given me the opportunity to explore different areas of the business and see how everything operates together.
What do you enjoy most about working in horticulture?
I love that every day is different. It’s hands-on, rewarding work where I can apply what I’ve learned. I particularly enjoy identifying plants and weeds and using that knowledge out in the field. It’s also great to work in a team where ideas are shared and everyone brings something different to the table.
What are your achievements and ambitions within the industry?
I was incredibly honoured to be named NGIV’s 2024 Student of the Year, after being nominated by my TAFE teacher, Bec Bennett. It meant a lot to have my hard work recognised. I’ve also been nominated for Chisholm Institute’s Student of the Year award, which is another huge honour.
Proudly sponsored by
I’d love to help others starting out in the industry – especially young people. I want to encourage more of them to get involved and learn about the different aspects of horticulture and how our industry operates.
Who has inspired you on your journey?
My TAFE teacher, Bec Bennett, has been a huge inspiration. From day one, she believed in me and helped build my confidence. Her teaching style made me want to aim high and stay committed. She’s incredibly knowledgeable and such a positive mentor – I’m honoured to now consider her a fellow industry colleague.
What is a typical day like for you?
Each day varies, but lately I’ve been doing a lot of lawn maintenance like whipper snipping, removing branches, and litter collection. Some days I work with the parks and gardens crew on mulching projects for local councils, such as the City of Casey. No two days are ever the same, which keeps it interesting.
Why should more young people choose horticulture as a career?
It’s such a rewarding career and offers a real sense of purpose I think more young people should get the chance to see how the industry works. Attending trade events like Trade Day or the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show can be really eye-opening and help them understand the opportunities available.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve received on your journey?
The best advice I’ve been given is to trust myself and push outside my comfort zone. My teachers and mentors have always believed in me, and that belief has helped me grow and realise I do have the knowledge and capability to succeed.
Are you studying/have you studied a horticultural course?
Yes, I’m studying the Certificate III in Horticulture. It’s already had a big impact on me – I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned on the job every day. It’s helped me build confidence in decision-making and deepen my understanding of the industry.
Tell us a bit about you; what you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I run a small side business called The Peninsula Bee, where I make beeswax candles using wax from a local beekeeper. I love how relaxing it is to watch the beeswax melt and transform into something beautiful. It’s really satisfying and creative – and it smells amazing!
A career in teaching horticulture: Inspiring the next generation
With the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE) currently offered as a free TAFE course across Victoria, there’s never been a better time to explore a pathway into teaching horticulture. Flexible study modes, including in-person, virtual, and self-paced options at institutions like Chisholm Institute, make it more accessible than ever. And with TAFEs and private Registered Training Organisations actively seeking passionate and knowledgeable staff, the demand for horticultural educators is growing.
Teaching horticulture is more than just a job – it’s a chance to inspire the next generation, share a passion for plants, and shape the future of our industry. Bec Bennett, a dedicated horticultural educator at Chisholm Institute, discusses why teaching horticulture is such a rewarding career and the steps she took to find her way into teaching.
Tell us about your career and how you got into horticulture.
I started in the horticulture industry when I was just 14. Back then, I was working part-time at a nursery and realised early on that this was something I wanted to pursue. Towards the end of school, I even arranged to take a day off each week to work. Being outdoors, surrounded by plants, felt so much more fulfilling than sitting in a classroom.
I took every opportunity to learn – getting my quarantine ticket, gaining experience with machinery, and even stepping up to manage staff and propagation schedules when my bosses travelled overseas. Those experiences taught me so much about the industry, from the technical aspects to leadership skills. It wasn’t just about doing a job; it was about learning everything I could.
How did your career progress once you knew horticulture was your path?
After school, I completed Certificate III in Horticulture through distance learning while working. I eventually moved
to Melbourne and found a new range of opportunities. Melbourne’s plant palette is so different from what I had grown up with, it was quite exciting.
I worked in a variety of roles, including landscaping and a few nurseries, which broadened my skills and deepened my understanding of the industry, as well as continued study. One highlight was participating in the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, creating an Achievable Garden. Each step of my career allowed me to do a bit of everything – from hands-on work with plants to creative and technical roles. It all reinforced my love for the industry and its endless opportunities for growth.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Teaching wasn’t something I planned – it just sort of found me When I was a nursery site supervisor, I took on apprentices and helped guide their training. A trainer would visit them once a fortnight, but it was my responsibility to ensure they were learning and developing the skills they needed on the job. I set aside time every week to focus on their training, and honestly, it became the best part of my week.
I loved creating activities to make their learning engaging. We’d do things like plant identification keys and trials with different fertilisers. It wasn’t just about ticking off tasks; it was about understanding why plants grow the way they do and how to nurture them properly. Watching them develop
– not just as workers but as passionate horticulturists – was incredibly rewarding.
What steps did you take to become a teacher?
My trainers from Swinburne where I was studying a Diploma of Horticulture encouraged me for years, saying, “You’d make a great teacher.” For a long time, I didn’t think I was ready. But after working with those apprentices, and this encouragement, I realised I could do it.
I enrolled in the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE) and completed it part-time over six months. I worked full-time during the week and attended classes on Saturdays, which was tough, but it fit my schedule. The course was eye-opening – it gave me insight into the behind-the-scenes aspects of teaching, like compliance and assessments. It was a different perspective, but it made me appreciate the importance of good training even more.
How did you get started in teaching?
I returned to Swinburne to teach casually, supported by my former trainers. It was amazing to come full circle, teaching where I had once been a student. Casual teaching gave me flexibility – I could teach a couple of days a week while staying active in the industry the rest of the time. You don’t have to be a full-time teacher, and the rates are great so it’s a great addition to still being active in industry.
I now teach four days a week at Chisholm Institute of TAFE. The job and my team are amazing.
Standing in front of a classroom for the first time was nerve-wracking, but I quickly found my rhythm. Sharing my experiences and knowledge felt natural, and seeing the students connect with what I was teaching was incredibly fulfilling.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
Watching the students grow – both in confidence and in skill –is the most rewarding part. I love seeing them go from unsure
beginners to passionate professionals. It’s even more special when you see them build relationships with one another, forming bonds that will carry them through their careers.
Teaching also keeps me learning. Whether it’s discovering a plant I hadn’t worked with before or exploring new techniques, I feel like I grow alongside my students. And the balance is perfect – I get to spend time in the classroom as well as where I want to really be, which is outdoors, staying connected to the plants and the hands-on side of horticulture.
Any advice for those considering teaching?
Teaching doesn’t have to be full-time. You can start with just one or two days a week and still stay active in the industry. It’s a great way to share your knowledge while continuing to grow yourself.
If you’re passionate about your trade and enjoy helping others, teaching can be an incredibly rewarding path. There’s something special about being part of someone else’s journey, helping them find their place in the industry you love.
Trade Day report
By Nan Cleven
A hot and humid couple of days leading into our February Trade Day set the tone, with an overcast start keeping the temperatures down slightly – at least for a little while. The action, however, was heating up as we kicked off our third summertime market at KCC Park. We were pleased to see an almost full house of standholders, with plenty of seasonal stock and colour on display for buyers. A number of trade stands had a strong Valentine’s Day focus, adding an extra splash of interest for retailers preparing for the peak gift-giving period.
« Our ‘Sponsor for the Month’ for February –Silver Industry Partner, BioGro – with Bruce Durant taking on the duties to officially begin trade for February. Yet another of our enthusiastic bell ringers! Bruce is well known throughout the industry due to his involvement over the past 30+ years; from Knoxbrooke/Yarra View Nursery for 17 years, to SureGro TreeMax/Arborgreen for 16 years and now with the Bio Gro team. A wealth of knowledge and experience and renowned teller of a great joke or two.
March’s Trade Day marked the arrival of the vibrant autumn season. Anticipating the weeks ahead, standholders were back in full swing and geared up for a big day of trading. Buyers were out early, eager to stock up in the lead-up to the Labour Day long weekend and, of course, the excitement of MIFGS.
Our March Trade Day also featured the return of the Autumn Gala BBQ Day, with the Coffee Cart and BBQ proudly sponsored by NGIV Silver Industry Partners, Arborgreen and Transplant Systems.
« Silver Industry partner Powerplants were also duly recognised on the day as another of our valued Sponsors – Keith ‘Rocky’ Rockman and Yuvraj were keen to chat to members, showcasing sample Javo potting machine.
« New Member at Trade Day – Karinga Nursery located in Keysborough – Lizzy Schirmer, a ‘Next Gen’ taking on the family business, which has been operating for some 52 years. On show in February – a quality sample of their range including conifer, citrus and blueberries.
« Looking forward to Valentines Day – and some truly relevant and very attractive product lines on show:
- Hanneman Roses, Haars, Top Ten Trees, Plantopia all featuring heavily
- Wrights featuring spectacular Abutilons trained up as standard weepers.
« DNS – Dianne and Adam showcased their new Ad-Ute, generating much interest from this initial ‘soft’ launch.
« New Season, new Month and taking on the duty as ‘Bell Ringer’ to begin trade for our Autumn Gala Day, Sam Bailey from Arborgreen happily taking on the spotlight challenge.
« And true to form, Tim and Kim again dressed for the occasion, all in green pre St.Patrick’s Day – and with the luck of the Irish perhaps, winning the Arborgreen raffle.
« Well, we can’t keep a good man down –post knee surgery, Rex Newton back in action again, wheelchair bound but still able to do his ‘shopping’.
« Morning Glory – snapshot of the stunning sunrise, with Southern Plants in the foreground – thanks to Karen from Ausflora.
« New to Trade Day – Fair Dinkum Fertilizers –Darren and Steve were keen to chat to members.
RETAIL STATE OF PLAY
Garden Centres Australia kicked Autumn off with a bang with the incredible GCA MIFGS Sneak Peek and Twilight Tours for our members and staff including the GCA Young Retaillers Collective, setting the tone for an inspiring season ahead. These standout events were made all the more special by the vibrant energy and wisdom of the wonderful Teena Crawford. Her infectious passion brought the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show to life, as she guided us through behind-the-scenes insights, emerging trends and the creative visions of leading designers. It was a feast for the senses and a true celebration of horticultural excellence.
Teena’s new book, Plantology, is the perfect reference guide for Australian gardens – cleverly crafted for our unique conditions, plant palette and gardening culture. It’s an essential item for garden centres as a reference as well as to stock, offering value as both a trusted guide for the serious gardener and a stunning coffee table book that inspires at every page turn.
If you loved the GCA MIFGS events, make sure you join us for the next big moment – our Annual General Meeting, Monday 2 June at 5:30pm at Riddells Creek Nursery followed by a social function. It’s your chance to connect, reflect and help shape the future of our industry. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Follow GCA on Facebook for updates www.facebook.com/gardenreleafaustralia | www.gardenreleaf.com.au
Lisa McCann, GCA General Manager | e: manager@gardencentresaustralia.com.au | m: 0438 387 677
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