As we step into winter, the pace at NGIV hasn’t slowed. From insightful events to exciting future plans, we’re continuing to connect, inform and champion the Victorian horticulture industry.
In late April, we were delighted to join the team at Norwood for a special Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria networking event, where transformation and forward-thinking took centre stage. The evening featured a site tour, a relaxed dinner with food truck flair, and a keynote conversation with Phantm on the future of packaging, sustainability, and compliance. As environmental regulations continue to evolve, it was invaluable to hear about the innovations and challenges that lie ahead, particularly from Norwood’s perspective as an industry leader committed to change.
May also saw our first free HR session at Trade Day, led by independent consultant Sheena Kane. The session was tailored specifically to the needs of garden centres, covering current HR pressures and answering member questions. Thank you to all who attended – we’ll continue to look for opportunities to offer member-focused sessions like these throughout the year.
The NextGen network also gathered in May for a workshop and behind-the-scenes tour of Australian Growing Solutions (AGS). The workshop focused on growing media and composting, giving early-career horticulturists a rare chance to learn directly from the experts. Events like these are crucial to engaging and developing the next generation of horticultural leaders.
Meanwhile, our April and May Trade Days brought the industry together again at KCC Park, with buyers and sellers braving some chilly mornings to keep greenlife moving across Victoria. We’re looking forward to July’s Trade Day and our Mildura tour, which will shine a light on regional businesses and foster stronger connections between city and country growers.
We’re also in the thick of planning for a number of major projects, including Australian Horticultural Trials Week, Plant of the Year 2026, and the Horticulture Showcase at Victorian Parliament, which will return to Queen’s Hall, Victorian Parliament House, in August. Each of these initiatives is an opportunity to showcase our industry’s value and innovation to new audiences – whether that’s the public, policymakers, or future industry professionals.
Speaking of recognition, award season is upon us. Nominations for the 2025 NGIV Horticulture Industry Awards close this month, and we’re thrilled that so many have taken the opportunity to celebrate excellence across the sector. This year we’ve introduced three new award categories – Allied Horticulture Business of the Year, Production Nursery of the Year, and Horticultural Retailer of the Year – to better reflect the depth and diversity of our members. These join familiar categories including Commitment to Environmental Stewardship, Student and Young Leader of the Year, and Distinguished Service Awards.
Looking ahead, we’ve locked in the dates for the 2026 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show and are already building on the momentum of this year’s incredible event. Put it into your diaries – next year’s show will take place from Wednesday 25 March to Sunday 29 March.
Behind the scenes, we continue to strengthen our advocacy, industry engagement and member services – all with a focus on growing a connected, resilient and forward-thinking horticulture community.
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support We look forward to sharing more with you soon.
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV Botanix Plant Supply
Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV
Craig Taberner CEO,
Garden City Plastics: 50 years of innovation and growth
Garden City Plastics (GCP) proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of growth, innovation, and commitment to the horticultural industry. From humble beginnings in 1975 as a small, family-run business, GCP has grown into Australia’s leading supplier of horticultural containers, trusted by nurseries, growers, and industry professionals nationwide.
Throughout the years, we have remained dedicated to producing high-quality, Australian-made plastic PP5 pots, tubes, and trays, and offering a wide range of allied products. Our ability to evolve with the industry, embrace new technologies, bring them to market and prioritise sustainability has positioned us as a trusted partner in horticulture.
The Wilson family’s deep roots in horticulture – initially as plant growers and sellers – laid the foundation for what Garden City Plastics is today. This firsthand experience gave them a unique understanding of the industry's evolving needs, which continues to inform GCP’s commitment to innovation. Their ability to anticipate future demands and collaborate with growers has positioned GCP as a leader in delivering efficient, durable, and environmentally responsible solutions to the market.
A standout example of this commitment is GCP’s Black Pot range. Manufactured from recycled materials – a practice in place since inception – these pots embody GCP’s sustainability ethos. For over 15 years, GCP has worked closely with Norwood Industries and Polymer Processors to collect used plastic from within the industry and reintroduce it into their manufacturing process. This closed-loop approach not only extends the life of valuable materials but also ensures the continued production of pots that meet the high standards of growers across Australia. Through initiatives like the PP5.com.au Recycling Program, GCP is helping secure a more sustainable future for horticulture, one pot at a time.
As part of our anniversary celebrations, we are once again excited to host the Annual GCP Roadshow, a nationwide event bringing together industry experts, supply partners, key
stakeholders, growers, and customers across Australia. Taking place in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland, the roadshow will serve as a platform for meaningful discussions and networking opportunities.
This year’s roadshow will feature insightful presentations on industry trends, business growth, sustainability, and innovative solutions for today’s challenges and the future. Learn how to build a resilient, adaptable business and stay ahead of industry shifts. Gain insight into current threats and how they’re being managed, as well as global best practices. Discover practical innovations that protect crops now and strengthen them for the future. Hear real-world insights from industry leaders who have successfully tackled key challenges in nursery production
The roadshow will also be an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the strong relationships we’ve built over the years. Many of our customers have been with us for decades, and their loyalty, feedback, and trust have been instrumental in shaping our success. This event is our way of expressing gratitude to those who have supported us along the way.
Looking ahead, GCP remains committed to sustainability, research, and innovation. As the horticultural industry continues to evolve, we are investing in environmentally responsible practices, including recyclable pots, reduced plastic waste, and greener growing solutions. Our goal is to deliver products that meet industry demands while minimising environmental impact
We invite our customers, partners, and industry colleagues to join us in celebrating this milestone. The GCP Roadshow will be an opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore the latest trends, and help shape an exciting future for Australian horticulture.
We look forward to celebrating 50 years of growth and innovation with you – and to many more years ahead!
Planting Potential: How one traineeship is growing more than just plants
By Future1st Group Training Organisation
When Brent from Peninsula Advanced Trees welcomed horticulture trainee Jordan to the team through the Future1st program, he wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. But from day one, it was clear Jordan was the right fit. What started as a new experience for both has since grown into a rewarding partnership.
For Brent, taking on a horticulture trainee through Future1st has been a straightforward and genuinely rewarding experience. From his first day on site, trainee Jordan slotted into the team at Peninsula Advanced Trees with ease, turning up early, getting stuck into tasks, and forming strong relationships with the team.
“He’s been a great fit right from the start,” says Brent. “Jordan’s got a solid work ethic, and you can tell he’s here to learn.” Initially tasked with pruning, Jordan has shown steady growth, becoming more confident in his skills and more mindful in how he approaches his work. “He’s really improved since he started, he’s picking things up quickly and already contributing in a meaningful way.”
Brent also praised the support he’s received from Future1st, noting the smooth onboarding process and Jordan’s own keenness to begin his course work and expand his theoretical knowledge. “It’s all been really positive. He’s motivated to learn, and we’re happy to give him the space to grow.”
For other nurseries considering bringing a trainee into their team; it’s a great way to bring fresh energy into the business and play a role in shaping the next generation of horticulturists. You’re not just investing in someone’s future, you’re strengthening your own team too!
Jordan says, “The most rewarding part of my traineeship in horticulture so far would be working alongside experienced horticulturists that are happy to share their knowledge on the
industry and the best ways to approach different tasks to maximise efficiency and the quality of my work.
“Working hands-on in the nursery has been essential to developing my horticultural skills, as I am able to apply my theoretical knowledge from the Cert III in Horticulture right away which has deepened my understanding and boosted my confidence.
“My advice would be to just go for it and not to be afraid to get your hands dirty. If you love working outdoors, learning about plants and being hands on, I wouldn't hesitate to get started, as it is a field that offers a lot of personal satisfaction. It’s not always easy but it is incredibly rewarding.”
Reflecting on the impact of traineeships in horticulture Future1st’s Anne-Marie says, “What we’ve seen with Jordan and Brent’s team at Peninsula Advanced Trees is a great reminder of the difference a trainee can make, not just in getting the job done, but in bringing fresh energy to a close-knit workplace.
At Future1st, we believe there’s so much untapped talent right here in our own communities. When given the right environment and encouragement, that talent can really make a difference.
Jordan represents the kind of local talent we’re proud to support: motivated, eager to learn, and ready to grow. When nurseries open their doors to trainees, they’re not just helping someone start their career, they’re investing in the next generation of horticulturists and strengthening the future of the industry from the ground up.”
A Global Footprints journey
By Olivia ‘OJ’ Jones
In 2023, I was fortunate enough to be awarded a BBM Global Footprints Scholarship for Horticulture. This program was originally a youth migration scheme of the Australian Government that assisted young British men to migrate to Australia between 1925 and 1982. When the program finished in 1983, proceeds were invested into a capital fund to support the successor organisation, BBM Youth Support, and its programs. The organisation is still funded today, offering young Australians in many industries the opportunity to travel overseas and gain industry experience with a scholarship grant focused on sustainability and empowering young Australians.
With my Horticultural Scholarship, I travelled over to Europe and the UK in May of 2024 in time for spring. While there, I attended the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, visited The Lost Gardens of Heligan, and while in the Netherlands I visited the Amsterdam Tulip Festival. I worked at The Eden Project, Kew Gardens, and David Austin Roses in England.
My first stop was the Netherlands. I had planned to fly into Amsterdam to visit the Keukenhof Tulip Festival. I got up early and took the first bus out to the gardens. I am so glad I got there first before the crowds. The atmosphere of the gardens first thing in the morning was breathtaking. The sun had just come up and the birds were beginning to awaken. I felt as if I was in a fairytale movie, with all the colours of the tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, and the lush green gardens and lawns. I spent hours walking the gardens and admiring the
trees and landscapes. I took a boat ride through the canals of the surrounding gardens. Unfortunately, I was a few days late and the weather had meant the farmers had cut back some of the flowering tulip paddocks already. After spending a few days exploring the city of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and a day trip out to Zaandam and Volendam, I moved on.
The next highlight of my trip was attending the RHS Chelsea Flower Show – Britain’s most prestigious flower show, running since 1913 and a bucket-list event to attend for any flower and garden enthusiast. It was as grand as I thought it would be. Held in the town of Chelsea, the streets and local pubs join in with beautiful flower displays throughout. The large-scale display gardens were definitely the highlight of the show, as well as the incredible bonsai collections.
My first work placement was one month at The Eden Project in Cornwall, in the southwestern peninsula of England. The Eden Project is an ecotourism attraction where over half a million visitors attend every year. It was a former clay mine spanning 30 acres, with the crater being transformed into a garden and biodomes – one of which houses one of the world’s largest indoor rainforests, a place where you really have to see it to believe it.
My first placement was in the Rainforest Biome. The Rainforest Biome is the largest glasshouse in the world, covering 3.9 acres and home to plants from all around the globe. I would spend my days planting new palms, watering the areas, pruning palm trees, and replanting garden beds. Being inside felt like walking through Jurassic Park – it was beautiful.
My next placement was in the Mediterranean Biome. The Mediterranean Biome is a huge indoor garden, including an Australian garden. After being six weeks overseas already, it was nice to work with some familiar plants like Anigozanthos and Callistemons. While there, I was part of the team redoing a display involving replanting a large vegetable garden, where the produce would be used in the on-site restaurants. The “Growing Point”, a large greenhouse powered by geothermal energy and heated from an underground hot spring, was where I spent my final week. It also produces food used
in the restaurants. It was fascinating to learn how it works and inspiring to work alongside such passionate people.
My next stop was Kew Gardens. I was fortunate to experience a real highlight – not only getting a behind-the-scenes look at the world-renowned gardens, but also seeing a Titan arum, commonly known as the stinking corpse lily. Although I had missed the prime bloom by a few days, it was still a thrill to see it up close, along with another Titan arum about to bloom and many others in leaf. I worked with the team in the greenhouse nurseries, planting seeds and working with pitcher plants, cacti, orchids, and many other endangered species.
I also had the chance to meet and work with Carlos Magdalena, known as “The Plant Messiah” – a plant propagator renowned for his unconventional techniques that have saved plants from extinction. He is credited with saving both the smallest and the largest species of water lily. On my final day at Kew, I rode a bike around the gardens and visited the glasshouses. Seeing a jade vine in flower and the water lily collection was a highlight Kew Gardens are not only grand but are also leading important work into climate change and how it will affect different parts of the UK in the future. I look forward to seeing what they achieve next.
After departing Kew, I headed out to David Austin Roses. I spent a few days working in the retail department and with the gardening team. With the gardeners, I helped “deadhead” roses and enjoyed connecting with like-minded garden enthusiasts. I was lucky enough to be given a tour of the homestead gardens – they were immaculate and beautifully laid out. It was fantastic to learn about the history of David Austin Roses and the passion the team brings to their work.
While overseas, I took the opportunity to visit other countries including Italy, Greece, and Croatia, to name a few. It was a great experience to travel solo, explore different cultures, and learn about the rich histories of incredible cities.
I spent a total of three and a half months overseas, and it was truly the opportunity of a lifetime – one that wouldn’t have been possible without the support of BBM Global Footprints. I would like to extend a huge thank you to my sponsors: Craig Taberner at Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria, Leigh Siebler at Garden Centres Australia, and Geordie Taylor at Riddells Creek Nursery.
Beyond the till: Why nurseries like Diaco’s are rethinking their entire tech stack
By Daniel Vacic
For most of the nursery and garden sector, digital transformation has meant bolting new systems onto old ones. A POS here. A stocktake spreadsheet there. Add an ecommerce plug-in when online orders spike. For years, that’s worked – sort of.
But for multi-location operations like Diaco’s Garden Nursery, it eventually stops working.
“Once you’ve got five stores and a production arm, the cracks start to show,” says Mario Diaco, co-founder of the Melbournebased business. “We were using five or six systems that didn’t talk to each other – one for sales, one for online, another for payments. It became unmanageable.”
Diaco’s experience reflects a growing challenge for the industry: the tools that helped nurseries modernise over the past decade are now slowing them down.
The app avalanche
According to research from SmartCompany and Deloitte, small businesses in Australia now manage between 5–10 digital tools daily – from scheduling and invoicing to CRM and inventory. That’s up from 3–4 apps pre-pandemic, and it’s creating what Deloitte calls “operational drag”: wasted time, siloed data, and overlapping systems that frustrate staff and customers alike.
In Diaco’s case, reconciling online orders with in-store stock was a manual task. Pricing updates had to be keyed in per location. Inventory management lagged behind actual product
movement, and staff were spending more time dealing with systems than with customers.
“It got to the point where we were paying for technology but not getting efficiency,” Mario says. “We needed something that brought it all together.”
Why this matters now
The push toward unified systems isn’t just about tidying up back-end processes. It’s about staying viable under pressure.
According to Greenlife Industry Australia’s latest data, 58% of nursery businesses faced labour shortages in the past 12 months. At the same time, inflation has driven up the cost of materials, freight, and utilities. Meanwhile, customers now expect seamless experiences – stock availability online, smooth checkout in-store, loyalty rewards that work everywhere.
This convergence of cost, complexity and consumer demand is forcing nurseries to think differently about how they operate.
“We don’t have extra hands or hours in the day,” Mario says. “The only way we scale now is through better systems and the latest technology.”
The only way we scale now is through better systems and the latest technology. ” “
The hidden cost of fragmentation
The productivity loss from juggling disconnected systems is not trivial. A 2023 Slack SMB study found that Australian business owners lose an average of 96 minutes per day to “context switching” –moving between platforms that don’t integrate. Over a year, that’s nearly three weeks lost to inefficiency.
And then there’s the revenue impact. IDC estimates that up to 20% of potential revenue can be lost due to mismanaged stock and delayed response times, especially in sectors with fast-moving seasonal inventory like horticulture.
What integration looks like in practice
For Diaco’s, the solution came in the form of a unified business platform built by a local company, Jaffle. Rather than stringing together new tools, they are replacing their entire system with a single platform that combines point-of-sale, online orders, payments, inventory, and customer accounts –across all locations.
“It was a reset,” Mario says. “Now when we scan a product, the stock will adjust in real time. Online and in-store systems will talk to each other better. And if we need to update prices, we do it once.”
Training new staff takes days, not weeks. Customers get a consistent experience, whether they’re buying potting mix in-store or a Japanese maple online.
The key, Diaco notes, is not just having tech – it’s having the right kind of tech
“We looked at bigger systems, but they were built for corporations. We needed something that understood our business, not just retail in general.”
A sector-driven shift
Diaco’s is not alone in this shift. Across Victoria, nursery operators are starting to adopt smarter, more integrated platforms – many built specifically for multi-site operators with both retail and production arms. Some are still early in the transition; others are seeking digital solutions that can also support compliance, bookings, or loyalty in one place.
It’s part of a broader trend: 74% of small business owners now say they want a one-stop solution, according to Gartner.
And with government mandates like e-invoicing on the horizon, and digital compliance becoming the new baseline, the pressure to modernise is growing.
What this means for the industry
The question for nurseries isn’t whether to digitise – it’s whether their current systems are helping or hindering them.
Integrated platforms won’t solve every problem. But they will:
» Reduce duplicated admin
» Make data more usable
» Free up staff time
» Improve customer experience
» Create resilience in times of disruption (especially with offline capability)
For Diaco’s, the benefits have been clear. “We’re not a tech company – we’re a garden nursery,” Mario says. “But we realised if we didn’t get the systems right, we couldn’t grow.”
As nurseries navigate labour shortages, economic pressure, and rising digital expectations, integrated platforms like the one used by Diaco’s may become less of a luxury – and more of a baseline.
Strategic business planning for the new financial year: Smart financial strategies for success
By Vivienne Bethune, SMART Business Solutions
As the new financial year begins, it’s an ideal time for business owners and operators to review their plans and refine their strategies. A well-structured business plan, supported by smart financial management and expert advice, strengthens stability and growth. Integrating tax flow planning, business forecasting, and CFO services ensures a high-performing, financially secure future.
1. The importance of strategic business planning
Many business owners get caught in the day-to-day operations, reacting to issues as they arise rather than planning proactively. Without a clear roadmap, businesses risk drifting without direction, making it difficult to achieve sustainable growth.
Strategic business planning involves setting clear financial and operational goals, identifying risks and opportunities, and developing action plans to improve profitability and efficiency. Your plan should include:
> Revenue and growth targets
> Cash flow projections
> Budgeting and expense management
> Tax planning strategies
> Contingency planning for economic fluctuations
By working closely with your accountant and business advisor, you can create a comprehensive plan tailored to your business goals.
Tax flow planning is not just about compliance – it’s a strategic tool for improving your financial position. Effective tax planning involves:
> Structuring income and expenses to reduce tax liability
> Taking advantage of tax incentives and deductions available to businesses
> Optimising superannuation contributions for tax efficiency
> Planning asset purchases and depreciation schedules to maximise deductions
> Reviewing payroll and employee benefits to ensure tax effectiveness
Proper tax planning helps manage your business’s cash flow throughout the year, preventing last-minute surprises and ensuring you retain more profit to reinvest in growth.
3. Virtual CFO services: Financial leadership without the full-time cost
Not every business can have the need or resources for a fulltime CFO, but all can benefit from expert financial guidance. A Virtual CFO (vCFO) provides strategic advice, financial oversight, and business planning—offering high-level expertise tailored to small and medium businesses without the full-time cost.
A vCFO can provide:
> Regular financial performance reviews
> Cash flow forecasting and management
> Benchmarking and financial analysis
> Budgeting and cost control strategies
> Accountability in achieving financial goals
By engaging a vCFO, businesses gain access to the expertise and insights of a CFO at a fraction of the cost, ensuring they have the financial visibility and strategic insight needed to make informed decisions.
4. Cash flow management: The lifeblood of your business
Understanding and improving your business’s cash flow is critical for financial stability. Key actions to enhance cash flow include:
> Monitoring your cash conversion cycle – the time it takes to turn sales into cash
> Improving debtor days by setting clear payment terms and using automated invoice reminders
> Reviewing overhead expenses to identify cost-saving opportunities
> Planning for seasonal fluctuations in revenue and expenses
A detailed cash flow forecast helps identify potential shortfalls and allows businesses to take proactive measures to maintain liquidity.
5. Business accountability: Staying on track with your goals
One of the biggest challenges business owners face is holding themselves accountable to their business goals. Regular financial check-ins, monthly strategic reviews, and accountability meetings with a business advisor or vCFO ensure you stay on track.
A structured review process should include:
> Assessing progress against financial and operational goals
> Adjusting business strategies based on market conditions
> Identifying new opportunities for growth
> Ensuring compliance with tax and regulatory obligations
By committing to regular business reviews, you create a culture of continuous improvement, making your business more resilient and agile.
Final thoughts: Take action now
The new financial year presents an opportunity to reset, refine, and re-align your business for long-term success. Strategic business planning, when combined with expert accounting, tax flow planning, and vCFO services, provides a solid foundation for financial growth and stability.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level?
Start working on your business, not just in it. Book a complimentary 30-minute discovery meeting with a SMART Business Solutions advisor to develop a tailored financial strategy for success. Available online or in-person.
McCulloch, Partner/Accountant
NGIV’s Horticulture Industry Awards: Why recognition matters
By Nancy Salinas, Moshie Australia
Moshie is proudly sponsoring the Young Horticulture Leader of the Year Award in 2025
With nominations closing in early June, NGIV will once again recognise the individuals and businesses making a real difference in horticulture.
For Bec Neeson from Warners Nurseries in Narre Warren North, winning NGIV’s Young Horticulture Leader of the Year award in 2024 was more than just a personal achievement – it was a moment that validated her growth as a leader and motivated her team.
“I told myself I wouldn’t be bothered if I won or not,” she recently shared. “But when my name was called, I realised how important it was to acknowledge how far I’d come, and how much my team and I had achieved together.”
Since receiving the award, Bec has noticed a boost in confidence and clarity – not just in her leadership, but in her role across the business. “It made me feel more capable, more connected. I’m now more motivated to keep improving and to positively influence the people around me.”
Bec’s award last year included a scholarship to the Moshie’s Lean Leaders Program, where she’s been developing skills that extend well beyond the nursery. “It’s helped me refine how I lead and communicate, both professionally and personally,” she said. “I now see my impact on the broader business, and I feel more equipped to drive meaningful change.”
Her advice for anyone thinking of nominating a colleague or themselves in NGIV’s awards?
“Do it. The recognition is motivating – and just going through the process helps you reflect on what you’ve accomplished. It’s a reminder that your hard work matters.”
Proudly sponsored by Moshie, the Young Horticulture Leader of the Year Award is one of several prestigious honours at the 2025 NGIV Horticulture Industry Awards. All winners will be recognised at NGIV’s Horticultural Industry Awards Night in August and celebrated in a future edition of Groundswell
Bec Neeson, Young Horticulture Leader of the Year Award 2024 Winner.
Image: Warners Nurseries
Clyde Plant Nursery: End of an era
After four decades of dedicated service to Victoria’s horticulture industry, Clyde Plant Nursery has officially closed its doors. Founded in 1984 by John Marshall on a modest two-hectare site, the nursery blossomed into a respected industry name, supplying flowering groundcovers, shrubs, roses, camellias, topiary, and PBR varieties to an ever-growing community of customers and fellow growers.
From the very beginning, John set high standards – both in the quality of plants and the professionalism of operations. Under his guidance, the nursery achieved industry accreditation and became a benchmark for others to follow. Beyond the nursery gates, John’s contribution to the broader horticultural community was exceptional. He chaired NGIV’s State Accreditation and Technical Committee for a decade, represented Victoria on the National Accreditation
Committee, and more recently, served on the National Governance Committee overseeing biosecurity systems.
In 2019, NGIV honoured John Marshall with the Award of Merit, recognising not only his technical expertise and leadership, but his generosity of spirit and service to the industry.
As John steps into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of trust, excellence, and community. A recent message from Clyde Plant Nursery expressed their heartfelt thanks: “The business has always been about more than just the work – it’s about the relationships built along the way… Thank you for being a part of the journey.”
We thank John and the Clyde Plant Nursery team for 40 remarkable years of contribution. John Marshall
A smarter, simpler future: NGIV’s Tree and Shrub Growers visit Norwood Industries
By James Nicklen
NGIV’s Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria group gathered at Norwood Industries in May for an eye-opening session focused on innovation, compliance, and the future of sustainable packaging in horticulture.
Following a guided tour through Norwood’s factory and cuttingedge digital print department, attendees gained a firsthand look at the technology and craftsmanship behind the company’s industry-leading packaging solutions. But the day’s highlight was undoubtedly the presentation from Edward Whitehead of Phantm, who delivered a timely and compelling overview of evolving APCO (Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation) guidelines and other regulatory changes on the horizon.
Edward unpacked what these updates mean for growers –especially in light of reporting requirements for major retailers – and introduced a forward-thinking solution currently in development. In partnership with GCP and Norwood, Phantm is building a streamlined compliance service designed to relieve growers of the burden of complex packaging regulations.
The new system will automatically manage PREP (Packaging Recyclability Evaluation Portal) and APCO compliance processes, offering a significant time-saving advantage and greater peace of mind. Not only will it help businesses stay ahead of the regulatory curve, but it also reinforces the horticulture industry’s broader shift toward transparency, traceability, and environmental responsibility.
This event was a powerful reminder of the value of collaboration between industry groups, manufacturers, and sustainability experts – and a strong example of how NGIV continues to bring growers together to navigate change and thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
On-farm drought infrastructure grants
The Victorian Government is providing practical support to farmers impacted by drought.
The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grant Program supports on-farm upgrades that provide immediate support in managing drought and build future resilience.
The grant program (announced in September 2024) continues in southwest Victoria and for this region the grant amount has been increased to up to $10,000.
Farmers across the rest of the state will be able to access grants up to $5,000. Newly eligible farmers can express their interest directly with Rural Finance via admin@ruralfinance.com.au.
Updated program guidelines will be available soon.
A dollar-for-dollar co-contribution is required from the grant recipient.
Eligible farmers can apply for grants for on-farm improvements including water infrastructure upgrades, stock containment areas, grain and fodder storage and drought management tools such as soil moisture monitors and weather stations.
Eligible activities under the grant program are being expanded to cover water carting activities and pasture re-establishment in recognition of the broad pressures farmers are managing.
Eligible LGAs
Eligible LGAs in southwest Victoria as of September 2024 (up to $10,000) are:
» Ararat
» Moyne
» Colac Otway
» Pyrenees
» Corangamite
» Southern Grampians
» Glenelg
» Surf Coast
» Golden Plains
» Warrnambool
» City of Greater Geelong
» West Wimmera (postcodes 3312, 3317, 3318 and 3319)
All other LGAs in Victoria are eligible for up to $5,000.
Farmers currently eligible in southwest Victoria (as of September 2024) can continue to apply for the $5,000 grant.
The grant program is being administered by Rural Finance on behalf of the Victorian Government. Applications will be processed in order of receipt and the program will close when all funds are allocated.
For more information about the grants program visit ruralfinance.com.au or call 1800 260 425 during business hours.
For more information on dry seasons and drought support, email drought.support@agriculture.vic.gov.au, or call 136 186.
Greening the Garden State: A Roadmap for a Greener Victoria
In response to the escalating challenges associated with urban heat, biodiversity loss, and population growth, Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) partnered with Mosaic Insights to develop Greening the Garden State: A Roadmap to a Greener Victoria. This comprehensive report, summarised below, outlines the urgent need for urban greening across Victoria and presents a strategic framework to create cooler, healthier, and more resilient urban environments.
The Case for Urban Greening
Victoria, celebrated for its lush parks and tree-lined streets, faces increasing pressures from climate change and urban development. Urban areas, particularly Melbourne, are experiencing rising temperatures due to the “urban heat island” effect, which intensifies during heatwaves. Heat exposure is already a significant health risk, responsible for more deaths than any other natural disaster in Australia. As those in the industry recognise, by expanding green spaces, Victoria can lower surface and air temperatures, improve community health, protect biodiversity, and deliver economic benefits.
1. Environmental and Health Benefits
The practice of urban greening cools cities by providing shade and facilitating evapotranspiration, reducing temperatures by up to 2–5°C in shaded areas. This cooling effect is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, reducing heat-related illness and mortality.
Additionally, green spaces encourage outdoor physical activity, fostering better mental health and reducing the prevalence of obesity-related diseases.
Green infrastructure also enhances air quality by filtering pollutants, mitigates stormwater runoff, and strengthens mental well-being. Studies show that people living in green neighbourhoods experience lower psychological distress and fewer health issues. Expanding Victoria's backyards, turfed areas, tree canopies and understory plantings can thus significantly contribute to healthier, more sustainable urban living.
2. Biodiversity Preservation
Urban development often fragments and degrades habitats critical for native flora and fauna. The roadmap emphasises the importance of biodiversity-rich urban areas, noting that tree canopies of at least 30% can significantly bolster ecosystems, supporting various species and improving ecosystem services like pest regulation and pollination. The report calls for strategic restoration efforts to prevent further biodiversity loss, promoting habitats that can support a range of species.
3. Economic Rationale
Investment in urban greening is economically sound, with studies showing a return of approximately $4 for every dollar spent. Benefits include carbon sequestration, reduced energy costs for cooling, increased property values, and decreased infrastructure maintenance costs. The roadmap encourages policymakers to recognise urban greening as essential infrastructure, warranting investment comparable to other public services.
Challenges and Key Recommendations
Despite its benefits, Victoria’s green spaces are declining. The roadmap identifies critical challenges and opportunities to increase urban greening. Some of the primary obstacles include inconsistent targets across local councils, workforce shortages, inadequate planning regulations, and limited funding. The roadmap outlines several key actions:
1. Setting Targets and Accountability: Establish measurable, time-bound targets for urban greening across all councils, aiming for a minimum 30% tree canopy cover in urban areas. This includes tracking progress through a consistent reporting framework. An urban canopy target supports increased understory plantings and expanded turfed areas, fostering a sense that green spaces are vital and valued within our community.
2. Expanding Skills and Resources: With workforce shortages in the horticultural and arboricultural sectors, there is an urgent need to train professionals capable of supporting ambitious greening projects. The roadmap proposes establishing a Horticultural Centre of Excellence to build industry skills and increase the availability of suitable plant species.
3. Incorporating Greening in Urban Planning: Urban planning must prioritise green space in both new developments and urban densification projects. This involves mandating sufficient plantable space, soil depth, and irrigation systems to sustain large canopy trees. Revised guidelines for greenfield developments, including wider nature strips and dedicated space for trees in streetscapes, can help ensure that green spaces grow alongside residential expansion.
4. Funding and Incentives: Sustainable funding models are crucial for urban greening projects. The roadmap suggests creating incentives, such as reduced land tax for retaining or planting trees on private property, alongside government grants for greening initiatives. This financial support could be especially beneficial in high-priority areas vulnerable to extreme heat and biodiversity loss.
5. Enhanced Coordination Among Stakeholders: Effective urban greening requires collaboration across multiple levels of government, including state agencies, local councils, and community organisations. The roadmap recommends forming a Ministerial Advisory Council to unify urban greening efforts, streamline decision-making, and ensure cohesive implementation of greening strategies.
Planning and Design Innovations
In response to population growth and the demand for housing, the roadmap emphasises the need to rethink urban design. Compact, high-density cities often lack green space, resulting in higher temperatures and less canopy cover. To address this, the roadmap advocates for innovative design practices that incorporate green infrastructure into urban areas. This includes creating “green streets” with shaded pathways, enhancing green roofs and walls, and preserving mature trees on private land.
Future Vision
Ultimately, Greening the Garden State envisions a Victoria where urban greening is integral to city planning, resulting in
cooler, more liveable, and ecologically rich communities. The roadmap calls for a shift in mindset, treating green infrastructure as essential for public health, environmental resilience, and economic prosperity. By committing to these goals, Victoria can transform its urban landscapes, fostering sustainable spaces that benefit all Victorians and future generations.
Greening the Garden State: A Roadmap to a Greener Victoria has been well received by the Victorian Government, who have held numerous meetings with NGIV and the report’s author in the lead up to their release of Plan Victoria. We look forward to the benefits that their commitment to a greener Victoria will provide for all Victorians.
Scan the QR code to read the full report or visit ngiv.com.au.
Our annual function in March 2025 was amazing and even better than previous years. We had over 170 industry people attending. They were entertained and informed by the eight GIG member companies.
GIG presenters showed off new releases and innovations.
The presentations were all different and informative. GIG companies also had excellent displays of plants and products that were enticing and inspiring.
The GIG evening is open to Independent Garden Centres and their staff; it is arguably the best networking event for Garden Centres in Australia.
GIG celebrated 30 years on this evening since the nucleus started in 1995 with PGA and Floriana taking staff training and new plant information directly into Garden Centres Pre-Spring and Autumn. GIG has expanded hugely since then.
Our aim at all times is to assist owner-operated garden centres to compete in the marketplace and help them improve sales and profits.
GIG presents an Industry Champion Award at the function every year. The GIG members look at which businesses or people have excelled over the year or years and select the deserving winner.
This year was different in that it was a joint Award and richly deserved
Nursery.
Current members are: Biemond Nurseries, Bombora Pots, Grow Better, Plant Growers Australia, Takasho, Trenton Cottage, Ausflora Pacific, Scotsburn Nurseries and Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria, NGIV.
GIG 2026 date is Monday evening March 2. Invitations will be posted and emailed in early 2026 but put the date on your noticeboard.
Inquiries to Leigh Siebler: E: leigh.siebler@bigpond.com
Growbetter Garden Products has recently acquired Harry’s Garden Products, a brand that originated from a collaboration between Harry Jackson and Jo Pringle. From humble beginnings, bagging topquality fertilisers at East Malvern Idaho Nursery, the products have grown into an iconic brand within the nursery industry.
Harry brought years of nursery expertise, while Jo contributed her strong marketing background, resulting in a successful range of garden enhancement products. Today, products such as Gardenia, Citrus, Camellia, All Purpose, Rose, and Daphne foods are widely available in retail outlets, presented in eyecatching buckets.
Once gardeners experience the great results from using Harry’s products, they become loyal customers, which is a true testament to the brand’s effectiveness
About Growbetter
Growbetter is a family-owned Australian company servicing independent retailers. They manufacture quality potting mixes, composts, fertilisers, watersaving solutions, and mulches, with a vast distribution network.
The acquisition of Harry’s Garden Products is a perfect synergy, as Growbetter has been distributing the brand for the last 12 months, making Growbetter a one-stop-shop supplier. This also includes a range of unique garden pots branded Bombora.
Contact: Growbetter
Phone: 9 720 7475
Email: sales@growbetter.com.au
GIG Champion Announced – Olivia and Andrew Jones, Poyntons
Trade Day report
By Nan Cleven
The beautiful Autumn colours were on full display for our April and May Trade Days – a busy time for growers and buyers alike, with April leading into school holidays, Easter, Anzac Day, and the last week of Daylight Savings. Our April Coffee Cart Sponsors were Bronze Industry Partners – Grandview Monbulk and Evergreen Connect. May’s market embraced our annual ‘Think Pink’ theme for Mother’s Day and our fundraising effort for the Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA). Alongside the vibrant seasonal tones, there was strong support for the cause – with over $200 raised through raffles and donations. Our Coffee Cart Sponsors for May were Gold Industry Partners – All Green Nursery & Garden.
« GRANDVIEW MONBULK PTY LTD –CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN THE NURSERY INDUSTRY!!
Proudly growing plants since 1985 – and now, Next Gen coming through. Tom Sands enjoyed the spotlight on bell duty, declaring the start of trade.
« The crew from Grandview sharing the milestone, offering up celebratory cupcakes with a coffee for members – Ted, a long-time Grandview stalwart of 16+ years; his daughter Kelly, 9 years; and Tom, born to the business!
« Top Ten crew at it again – Kim and Tim always keen to highlight a monthly theme. This was the perfect lead-in to Easter – the pair of ‘bunnies’ brought a smile to all who passed by their stand, with chocolates and fun assured.
« Sounding the bell for the start of trade –Harry McCarthy, amused at being the centre of attention as he kicked off our May Trade Day.
« A colourful pre-Mother’s Day promotion on the Norwood stand – Camila showcasing some promotional features on offer.
« What the?? No phones. Now what are the KCC folk up to? How can they possibly enforce this…
Gotcha! Shout out to the GCP boys, caught up in this 1st April antic.
« Chris Mankey from Outfront – very pleased with his purchase from Feingold Flowers, selected from their stunning display of orchid gift lines.
« In support of BCNA Pink Day – many thanks to members for their generous raffle donations, including Mojay Pots, Facey’s Nursery, Ausflora, and wine from Orths. Harry on raffle prize-drawing duties.
Mother’s Day is all about chrysanthemums – and the annual, imposing display on the Wright’s Nursery stand provided a virtual sea of beautiful disbuds on show, all very quickly snapped up by buyers.
« The crew from Triffid Park – (L to R) Kyle, Donna, Jason and Ryan Smith – a family affair. Fresh from the finish line of their epic, bucket-list Kokoda Trail journey, returning just in time for our May Trade Day. Congratulations on a super effort!
PRICE UPDATE
Interview with NextGen KENDEL PITTARD
Australian Growing Solutions
Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at Australian Growing Solutions (AGS) as a Quality Assurance Technician.
How long have you worked there and how has your role progressed in that time?
I have worked at AGS for one year, and throughout that time my responsibility has increased from basic sampling/testing to include scheduling windrow maintenance and releasing finished product for commercial use.
What inspired you to choose horticulture?
I was initially drawn to the opportunity to work in the laboratory at AGS due to my background in science. I was interested to learn about the types of chemical testing required to meet industry standards and how chemical levels impact plant growth. In addition to this, I have always loved working outdoors and have fond memories of gardening with my parents throughout my childhood. For these reasons, working in horticulture seemed like a good fit for me.
What do you enjoy most about working in horticulture?
I enjoy the opportunity to work outdoors and live an active lifestyle at work. In addition to this, it is a huge industry with many different aspects and so much to learn.
Proudly sponsored by
What are your achievements and ambitions within the industry?
I am ambitious to learn more about the production of potting media, and how our products are used by growers and nurseries in many different ways. I aim to continue studying the different chemical levels and components that make up our unique media blends, and how each one is best suited to a particular type of plant growth. For these reasons, I enjoy going out to visit our customer sites to see firsthand the ways in which our products are being used.
Who has inspired you on your journey?
My boss Felicity has inspired me to learn more about the horticulture industry. She knows everything about potting media from a chemical to industrial level and is a font of knowledge, who is always willing to share her expertise. Felicity is a kind person with a deep love of science, and it’s great to work alongside her every day.
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day in the AGS lab involves going out around site to collect samples and record the status of all our compost windrows. In the lab we then conduct chemical testing such as pH, EC, nitrate, ammonium and phosphorous testing. Each product being sent out to a customer is individually checked, and all the raw ingredients coming in are tested and tagged for storage. We also conduct routine testing to monitor the maturity of the compost and other site maintenance such as water testing.
Why should more young people choose horticulture as a career?
It is such a broad industry with so much opportunity for personal and professional development. There are so many career opportunities and so many helpful, knowledgeable people that are willing to help you along the way. I can’t recommend it enough.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve received on your journey?
The best piece of career advice has come from my Dad – he told me to always stay curious and to never stop learning.
Are you studying/have you studied a horticultural course?
No, I completed a Bachelor of Science.
Tell us a bit about you; what you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy crocheting and reading. I love living on the Mornington Peninsula and being able to spend so much time on our beautiful beaches.
RETAIL STATE OF PLAY
National Tree Day is Coming – Get Ready with the 2025 Let’s Get Gardening Activity Bags!
Gardening is one of the best ways to connect families with nature – and the 2025 Let’s Get Gardening Activity Bags are the perfect tool to inspire young green thumbs.
Each bag includes a 20-page activity booklet filled with fun, educational projects, record-keeping pages, stickers and a Let’s Get Gardening keepsake pencil – making it an ideal offering for National Tree Day, school holidays and family events at your garden centre.
Independent garden centres are more than retail spaces – they’re family-friendly destinations that help foster a love of gardening from an early age.
Contact Lisa McCann at GCA on 0438 387 677 to order your 2025 Activity Bags and make your garden centre part of the story this National Tree Day!
Follow GCA on Facebook for updates www.facebook.com/gardenreleafaustralia | www.gardenreleaf.com.au
for body and mind Lisa McCann, GCA General Manager | e: manager@gardencentresaustralia.com.au | m: 0438 387 677
Gardens and plants are
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Vale Greg Walker
Henry Walker, better known as Greg Walker, passed away at age 99 in January 2024 after witnessing his beloved Pies win the grand final.
Greg had been a nurseryman for over 60 years, starting with his father-in-law in a small nursery, Silverleaves, in Thornbury. From there, he moved to Bundoora, and then to South Morang.
It was at Bundoora where he specialised in fuchsias and clematis and was honoured when a fuchsia was named after him. Greg travelled to England for the Chelsea Garden Show and conducted further research into clematis.
Greg was an early supporter of Garden Week (now the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show), initially as an exhibitor, then on the committee, before eventually becoming President and
holding the position for several years. He was awarded a certificate of appreciation which reads:
“In sincere appreciation of your unselfish leadership and contribution to the advancement of the horticultural industry Your hard work, perseverance, and personal sacrifice have moulded Garden Week into a bridge spanning the gap between public awareness and the Nursery Industry. For this, the Australian Nurserymen will forever be indebted. Presented as a token of our appreciation on 17th March 1984. The Garden Week Committee.”
Greg was a long-time member of the Nurseryman’s Association (which later became Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria) and was made a life member. Greg was also an early member of Plants Plus. Upon retirement, he led the Wonthaggi U3A Gardening group, with the community garden named after him.
He always maintained his interest in horticulture and took pride in his garden at Inverloch. In 2023, after a bout of COVID, he transferred to Woorayl Lodge, taking some of his favourite plants with him.
Greg is survived by his daughter Sandra and her husband Graeme, who shared a partnership with him in the nursery for over 40 years, as well as his son Phillip and daughter-in-law Sandy, and two granddaughters. If anyone remembers his ‘series of short speeches’ in acceptance of life membership, they would know he was inordinately proud of his family.
Greg passed away quickly and peacefully, a lifelong cricket fan, just missing out on his century.
Interview with NextGen NICHOLAS DYALL
TGA Australia
Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at TGA Australia as a horticultural apprentice in the production team.
How long have you worked there and how has your role progressed in that time?
I have been a part of the team for eight months now and in that time my role has gradually grown as I have gained more knowledge and experience within the industry.
What do you enjoy most about working in horticulture?
I love seeing the unique characteristics of the plants we work with, their bold colours and wild shapes, how they excite the five senses and challenge us to find the beauty within them, and all that is around us. I also enjoy working outside all day with a team of enthusiastic, likeminded people which lets us get through whatever weather may dawn upon us with a smile and a laugh.
Who has inspired you on your journey?
My inspirations come from far and wide, from family and friends who have a love for tending to their gardens, to famed bush poets like Henry Lawson and Banjo Patterson that so elegantly described the country and its flora and fauna in their work. I have also a developed a deep interest in First Nations culture and their knowledge of the land, something that challenges me to find my own connection to country.
What is a typical day like for you?
A normal day could include a variety of different jobs, such as preparing our beds for potting to minimise any weed germination for as long as possible as our stock spends a lot of time growing.
Proudly sponsored by
We spend time pruning and shearing our stock to encourage thicker foliage and more robust root systems. A potting day includes driving our front-end loaders to move media and using our potting machine to pot our stock up into larger pot sizes to give a plant more room to grow. Of course there is plenty of weeding to be done too, using different methods to try and get on top of them.
Why should more young people choose horticulture as a career?
I find it connects you with what is around you in an almost unexplainable way. It humbles you by bringing you back down to earth. As I spoke of before, it challenges you to find the beauty with what lies ahead of you, like an ever-flowing painting, unable to change yesterday’s brush stroke. I encourage not just young people, but everyone to open up to horticulture, as it is not just a gateway to more learning and opportunity, but it plants the seeds to a fulfilling career spent in awe of the world around us. You look after the earth, and the earth will look after you.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve received on your journey?
Strangely, the best advice was something that I told myself: it is quite simple but can apply to any situation. That being, “best efforts” as something to remind yourself of while doing any task or job. Such as ‘have I given my best effort to enjoy this?’ or ‘is this my best effort?’ I found it’s a good way to challenge your thinking towards what you are doing and makes you pick up on any bad habits that may rapidly form.
Are you studying/have you studied a horticultural course?
I am currently studying a Certificate III in Nursery Operations.
Tell us a bit about you; what you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love listening to music – any number with the blues, and preferably from an old record. I play a few instruments, so I enjoy writing music too. I like reading books and poetry by Australian authors and getting out to support the local football and cricket club. Go Tyabb Yabbies!
About NextGen
The Victorian nursery and garden industry is full of young, enthusiastic people, who are shaping the industry of the future. NGIV’s NextGen is a forum for people under 35 years of age to meet, exchange ideas and hone their leadership skills.
NextGen provides a unique opportunity for young horticulturalists to form networks and develop their careers, learn more about the industry, and have fun.
Trade Day report
By Nan Cleven
After a sweltering weekend, it was a very pleasantly cool and overcast start to the day for this time of year – the third of our summertime markets at KCC Park in February School was back; holidays were over and time to re-focus for the year ahead.
It was a full house for February, with much seasonal colour about, stock plentiful for buyers – and a particular focus on the upcoming Valentine’s Day and Lunar New Year – with some distinctive gift lines on show.
February Trade Day was proudly sponsored by Bronze Industry Partner DNA Training.
March Trade Day heralded the start of autumn for us all. Anticipating a busy season ahead, standholders were back and in full swing with all indoor trade stands covered, along with several outdoors in extra marquees. Buyers were out and about early, keen to stock up in the lead up to Labour Day long weekend, MIFGS and Easter all occurring within the next month.
The Gala BBQ Day and Coffee Cart were proudly sponsored for March by NGIV Platinum Partner, Norwood, and Bronze partner, Arborgreen.
« Our ‘Sponsors for the Month’ – Bronze Industry partner, DNA Training – Belinda Tardini more than happy for the chance to officially begin trade for February – yet another of our enthusiastic ‘bell ringers’!
« Evergreen Connect were also duly recognised on the day as another of our Bronze Industry Partners, as were all of our Industry Partners – with an ‘Avenue of Honour’ of newly decorated bollards to welcome all members and visitors upon arrival.
« Elliot on “L’s” – Look out! We handed over the keys of the DNS electric cart to Elliot to unload and bump-in the gear for the GCP stand. No speeding allowed – all went well!
« Taking on the duty as Bell Ringer for the Autum Gala Day, Marc Jarvis from Arborgreen amused at the instant action of our buyers, following his antics with the bell.
« Marc, joined by Perry Lemon and Sam pre-trade time.
«
Merrywood were in the spirit of Lunar New Year.
«After withstanding some severe weather damage earlier in the year, Mirboo North Garden Centre were overwhelmed by the support of growers, who generously donated stock to their nursery. Gino and Karen were grateful to everyone who showed their support.
« Winner of the ARS professional secateurs and leather pouch, courtesy Arborgreen in the Gala Day Prize raffle draw – Alowyn Garden Centre – no doubt will be put to very good use!
PRICE UPDATE
NGIV Monthly Industrial Relations Webinar Series
NGIV has created a series of free webinars hosted by our industrial relations consultant Sheena Kane for HR managers, business owners and team leaders/supervisors of NGIV member businesses.
The webinar series will provide our members with key insights and information across the following topics:
• Drugs and alcohol in the workplace
• Personal/sick leave
• Unfair Dismissal
• Sexual harassment
• Christmas parties
The webinars will take place on the first Thursday of every month.
Registration: Register in advance for each of these meetings. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Sheena Kane of Kane Independent Consulting is NGIV’s independent industrial relations consultant. NGIV Full Members can contact her on 0413 191 708 | skane@kaneindependentconsulting.com.au to discuss industrial relations matters with no charge.
If you would like to join the webinar and you are not a full NGIV member, please contact NGIV on (03) 9576 0599 or email ngiv@ngiv.com.au to discuss your options..
The Garden Gurus are seeking presenters
The Garden Gurus returns to Channel 9 nationally this year for its 21st year on Australian television. Victoria is home to our biggest audience, and we want to show more fabulous gardens and share gardening tips and ideas while showcasing industry innovation and new genetics, delivering better, more beautiful garden results.
We have a whole new generation of people discovering gardening and we are looking for the next generation of presenters to join our team. We are looking for two presenters; you will need solid horticulture or landscaping knowledge and must have the ability to connect with younger viewers in our demographic (20–30-year-olds). We provide training and direction in your role.
If you are looking for a fun way to share your knowledge and passion of gardening, send your CV to jessica@guruproductions.tv. Along with your CV, please include a short video (approximately 1 minute) of yourself presenting to the camera – think of it as a way to show off your knowledge and presenting skills!
Watch the Garden Gurus now at https://www.thegardengurus.tv.
That’s why I’m a member
Founded in 1903, Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV), is the peak industry body for the state’s horticultural sector.
NGIV engages with over 2,000 stakeholders, ranging from small family based operations to multinational organisations. A high percentage of our members are involved in production (turf and green life) and retail nurseries, while others are involved in horticultureallied trades, botanic gardens, educational institutions/not-for-profit organisations, and government agencies. NGIV represents the interests of the Victorian horticulture industry, a sector worth over $1.6 billion that employs more than 11,000 people.
NGIV membership identifies you as a leader in your profession and gives you access to a wealth of expert knowledge. Additionally, it provides support, training and networking opportunities for you and your staff.
Experience the real benefits of NGIV membership:
1. Build your business
2. Stay informed and up-to-date
3. Increase staff knowledge
4. Save time and money
5. Protect your interests
1. Build your business
NGIV membership identifies your business as an endorsed and reputable contributor to the industry and provides valuable networking opportunities.
Participate in Trade Day Market at Caribbean Gardens
• Gain access to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest horticultural wholesale market, held on the first Tuesday of each month.
• Connect with over 500 buyers and over 150 top producers.
• Participate, either as a buyer or a seller, or just come along to network.
Add credibility to your brand
• Build your image and brand as a proud NGIV member and proudly display the NGIV logo on your website, social media and all external correspondence.
• Assure your clients that you are a reputable business with your NGIV membership.
Build solid, profitable networks
• Build relationships by having access to the largest, most proactive and
“Being a member of the NGIV has been an asset to our business. The benefits available to members have helped our business considerably.
Through the NGIV we get access to up-to-date information regarding industry matters, advice, and technology support.
engaged special interest group within Australia’s horticulture community – the Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria.
• Increase your current market share.
• Build relationships and connect with new customers.
2. Stay informed and up-to-date
As an NGIV member, our dedicated and knowledgeable team members are there for you. With a focus on providing excellent member services, we are able to provide the information and answers you need to keep your business growing.
Keep in the know through quality communication
• E-News is emailed weekly with feature articles,job vacancies, and the latest industry news.
• Groundswell, our monthly magazine, keeps you informed about events, training and news and has the largest reach of any of Australia’s nursery and garden industry publications.
• The dedicated members-only section of NGIV website has everything you need to know to support your business.
Receive technical support and benefit from the expertise of others in the industry
As an NGIV member, you’ll receive:
• Dedicated field support.
• Information about the latest requirements in key areas of risk management and emergency preparedness.
Leah Opie Greenhills Propagation Nursery
We have gone down the path of NIASA accreditation, which is invaluable in assisting us to produce high quality products … and that’s why I’m a member.
• Updates on legislative changes and advice about what they mean to your business.
• Full assistance with Human Resources and Industrial Relations requirements.
Heidi Martin Van Loon’s Nursery
“The NGIV’s monthly trade market is a great way to access new stock and network with other members. Also, the regular updates and industry information is really helpful. I love that the profile of our industry through the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show is strengthened and also, on a personal level, I love the support and friendship you gain with people throughout our industry ... and that’s why I’m a member.
”• Advocacy and technical advice with regard to:
> Best management practice
> Industry capacity building
> Professional development
> Market access support
> Policy analysis
3. Increase staff knowledge
Our affiliations help you to build your business and develop the knowledge of your staff.
Receive the very best in horticultural training
• NGIV’s affiliations with reputable educational institutions will help to engage young staff (e.g. Apprentice awards sponsorship, Avenue of Achievable Gardens at Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, NextGen Program).
• NGIV works in collaboration with over 2,500 primary and secondary schools around Victoria to coordinate the highly successful Victorian Schools Garden Awards (VSGA).
Membership of the NGIV has provided us with endless resources of information and unrivalled networking opportunities.
The positive impact on our business has been tremendous. ... and that’s why I’m a member.
u
Peter Wilkins TGA Australia
“ ”John Van der Horst Acorn Nursery
“I make a living o I support this indus and what the benefits o industrial relations, in particular the Melbour and Gar Membership of NG our in ... and that’s wh
Give your staff the best opportunities to grow in their careers
• By developing the knowledge of your staff, you can encourage them to take on additional responsibilities and become more accountable for their work.
• Increase your staff’s sense of pride and their professionalism through industry engagement.
• Educating staff leads to better performance in the workplace, ultimately benefitting your business.
Make your presence felt at major horticulture events
• Join industry leaders, key industry bodies and educational institutions, to build your business and gain knowledge at the Southern Hemisphere’s premier horticultural event, the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS) which attracts over 110,000 visitors each year.
4. Save time and money
NGIV strives to make things easier for you and your business. We work for you to ensure that your business is as profitable and as efficient as it can be.
NGIV membership saves you valuable time
• Membership entitles you to generously subsidised training and accreditation programs that build your team’s skills and knowledge, to ensure their productivity increases.
• Our HR/IR you update manageme matters.
• We connec the field to is available And saves yo As a member
• Industry sp prices.
• Discounted Groundswe website.
• Discounted Internation the Southe horticultura
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COVID-Safe practices for your horticultural business
By Matt Ross
On Thursday 23 September, over 50 NGIV members joined our webinar to hear from Dr John Parkes, on COVID-Safe practices for horticultural businesses.
Dr John Parkes, Senior Medical Advisor for the Department of Health delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the steps horticultural businesses can take to minimise the risk of a positive COVID case and how to adapt operations if there is one.
Dr Parkes began by stressing the highly infectious nature of the Delta strain and whilst the Victorian horticulture industry had previously navigated the pandemic without any positive cases, this represents a much more serious challenge. He encouraged a change of attitude from ‘if’ the virus impacts your workplace, to ‘when’.
What happens if you have a case at your site?
If you have a positive COVID case at your workplace it becomes the responsibility of the Local Public Health Unit. As a business, you need to be able to quickly inform them who was on site when that case was infectious (two days before becoming symptomatic, or if asymptomatic, two days before the positive test) and who was, and was not, in close contact.
Who gets deemed a Tier 1 (isolate at home for 14 days, with tests along the way) and a Tier 2 (Test and isolate at home until negative test result) will depend on the workplace bubbles a business has operated.
A two step deep clean must be executed; cleaning with detergent first and then a disinfectant from the approved TGA list. This can be completed without having to close the site and work can then continue with ‘clean’ staff from other shifts, bubbles or perhaps labour hire.
How can we give ourselves the best chance to keep our site open?
Having a tight, updated, practised COVID-Safe Plan that:
1. Stops the virus getting into your site
2. If the virus does get into your site, severely limiting its spread; and
3. Proactively and aggressively manages any cases on site to affect your business in the smallest way possible.
How to stop the virus getting into your site
• Making sure workers don’t attend work if they, or people in their household, are symptomatic.
• Regularly communicate your expectations with your employees and ensure CALD communities understand your instructions. Communicate local exposure sites that may impact your workforce
• Be mindful of workers that attend several sites and try to keep them in a bubble from your other workers.
• Avoid any unnecessary visitors, if a visitor is essential, ensure they don’t come into close contact with your team. Take the same approach with drivers, ensure they have their own bubble wherever possible.
• Be mindful of workers who have household members in high-risk sites or parents to school children; try to bubble these workers together if possible.
• Encourage staff not to carpool.
• Try to maintain a consistent, ongoing workforce.
How to limit the spread of the virus if it reaches your site
• If possible, operate your business with split shifts and no crossovers.
• Put your workforce into bubbles wherever feasible; a potting bubble, a despatch bubble, etc.
• Consider having same household members in the same bubble and likewise for parents of school children.
• Have separate entries, exits, toilets and lunchrooms for different shifts and bubbles.
• Encourage staff to avoid mixing bubbles/shifts during smoking breaks, carpark encounters and after work.
• Staff who need to work across multiple bubbles/shifts (e.g. – managers, maintenance staff, etc) should endeavour to remain physically distanced.
• Use of masks, social distancing and sanitising, are all still important measures.
• If you have capacity to engage a COVID marshal to ensure your team operate in a COVID-Safe fashion, it is recommended.
• Avoid indoor environments without ventilation as much as possible.
• Communicate the benefits of getting vaccinated to your team and encourage them to do so; whilst respecting their personal wishes.
Final message
Dr Parkes left attendees with the message that this is real, the number of cases are increasing but we can all play a part in minimising risk and to do so many of us need to raise our game.
The webinar concluded with a Q&A session that gave attendees the opportunity to ask their specific questions.
A big thank you to Dr Parkes for giving us his time and expert knowledge. We’d also like to thank Agriculture Victoria for bringing this opportunity to industry.
For small, specific advice on ensuring you are operating in a COVID-Safe fashion email occupational.physicians@health.vic.gov.au.
If you are in a situation where a member of staff tests positive to COVID-19, please ensure you notify the NGIV office, the matter will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
Ozbreed Easy Access –Our New No-fuss Offering
By Ally Jackson, Communications and Business Relations
At Ozbreed we’ve been breeding no fuss, functional and reliable plants for landscape professionals since 2002. For almost 20 years, our plants have graced roadsides, commercial and residential landscapes, and gardens Australia-wide.
Todd Layt and his family have been synonymous with the Ozbreed enterprise, whose humble beginnings started in turf breeding in 1995. The success of a decision by Todd to breed Lomandra cultivars in the early days of the business, has grown into what it is today. We are now represented by licenced propagators and growers in Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Europe and Japan, supplying each country’s landscape industry with a huge variety of greenlife products.
In 2021, while Todd remains at the forefront of the breeding and research arm of the business, the day-to-day running of the company is undergoing some radical changes. Whereas, in the past Ozbreed were perceived as a ‘closed book’, with
access to our signature plants and growing options limited –things are changing. Industry feedback has been building and we are listening.
After almost 20 years, we are evolving to make access to our plants easier and meet ever-increasing industry demand.
Ozbreed Easy Access Offering
From 1 July 2021, we are launching a new offering called Ozbreed Easy Access (OEA). The OEA will make it easier to access young plants from specialist propagators and growers to pot on and sell. Fewer complications in accessing available propagation stocks for approved OEA growers, will in-turn
Yareena™ Myoporum parvifolium ‘PARV01’ A
Blue Gem™ Westringia hybrid ‘WES03’ A
Low Horizon™ Westringia fruticosa ‘WES06’ A
increase the potential availability of supply of each Ozbreed plant to market.
Whilst we will maintain our current business relationships with our limited number of licenced propagators and growers, the OEA will be available to nurseries who meet the new OEA criteria. For more information on the OEA criteria go to ozbreed.com.au/ozbreed-easy-access
Working with NGIV
As Ozbreed grows and improves, we want to support the established industry that helped to build us. This year, we are connecting with NGIV in a collaborative relationship with an aim to grow, innovate and develop the industry, especially at the ‘grassroots’ level, to engage the next generation of nursery men and women.
A Team for Transformation
Where previously the Layt family used to run every aspect of the company, some family members are taking a step back from the coalface. Todd’s wife Marina, and daughter Katrina, are winding up their positions in the company to pursue other opportunities, Todd’s son, Nathan, continues to consult the Senior Management Committee.
'Callistemons in Ozbreed Gardens'
Tropic Cascade™ Lomandra hystrix ‘LHWP’ A
Experience NGIV Trade Day; it’s more than just a market
As Victoria’s peak industry body, we are committed to helping your business to grow. As a member of Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria you have access to many benefits, whether it’s our ongoing advocacy work for the industry, promoting your business to your target audience, access to industry training for your team or the opportunity to network with the best in the business. .
NGIV Trade Day is more than just a market, it’s:
• Australia’s premier wholesale trading market
• A monthly industry networking event
• A quarterly horticultural showcase Don’t miss out on:
• The finest quality greenlife and allied products
• The best wholesale prices
• The convenience of everything under one roof
• An unparalleled range of plants and gardening products
• Network with Australia’s leading growers, allied suppliers and other retailers
• Up to 100 stand holders and 1000 buyers
KCC Park in Skye is the perfect place to showcase the Victorian horticultural industry.
• Spread across 75 acres
• Ample parking
• Convenient location
• 4,500sqm of flexible undercover facilities
Whether you’re interested in becoming a stand holder or a buyer, find out everything you need to know about Trade Day at ngiv.com.au
NGIV; helping your business and Victoria’s horticultural industry to grow
As Victoria’s peak industry body, we are committed to helping our member businesses and the State’s horticulture industry to grow. Becoming a member of the NGIV is simple.
As a full member you’ll have access to many benefits, here are just a few:
• Networking – Learn and connect with the best, our members are the country’s leading professional horticultural businesses.
• Promotion – Let us promote your business and our industry, we’ve got the communication channels and the audience to do it; whether it’s our monthly industry magazine , our weekly e-newsletter with an engaged audience of over 4,500 industry professionals or our social media channels that speak to the consumer.
• Advocacy - We regularly engage with Government to represent your interests, and that of our industry, educating them on issues including COVID-19, biosecurity, employment, water security, climate change and many more.
• Trade Days – Whether you’re a retailer or a grower, whether you want to trade or network; experience the largest regular gathering of horticultural businesses in Australia.
• Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS) – As the owner and operator of MIFGS we welcome your participation in Australia’s largest consumer marketing horticultural platform and offer a significant saving on exhibiting.
• Technical Advice and Education – Your NGIV membership is a gateway to discounted industry training, support from our knowledgeable team and a wealth of member only online resources.
• On-Site Visits – We look forward to visiting you, to learn more about your business and how we can help to grow it.
• Free Professional Support – You’ll receive complimentary access to industrial relations, legal, business, marketing, accountancy and insurance advice, from expert professionals.
And don’t take our word for it, here’s what our member business owners had to say about how their NGIV membership helps them.
How to nominate
1. Make sure you carefully read the 2021 Victorian Training Awards Nomination Guide to ensure you have noted the conditions of entry and eligibility criteria for your chosen category.
2. Go to the nomination portal: vta.awardsplatform.com. Register to nominate and follow the step by step process.
3. Contact the Victorian Training Awards team for advice or for help with obtaining the assistance of our nomination writers, if required.
4. Make sure you submit your nomination by the closing date, midnight on Friday 4 June.
Todd, while remaining Director of Marketing, is focussing on breeding and has assembled a team of industry professionals to manage and run the day-to-day aspects of the business and deliver the changes associated with the OEA offering.
Michael Rigg is leading the new team in the role of General Manager. His new team accompanies the new management style and fresh ways of doing things at Ozbreed. James Maitland connects supply and demand in the recently created role of Distribution and Relationship Manager. Eleanor Cadalbert will oversee all contracts, administration, and compliance as the Office Manager.
Ozbreed is reinvigorated with new marketing and communication expertise on board. Ally Jackson’s role of Communications and Business Relations focuses on personal communication with influencers and businesses at the forefront of the landscaping industry. On top of that, we are embracing the digital age and building on our marketing presence through social media platforms, under the guidance of Marketing Assistant, Bianca Boman.
Ozbreed is combining the strengths of our new team members with the expertise of those who have been with the company since its inception. This synergy allows us to evolve and improve the way we operate.
Our History
From our inception, we have focussed on breeding plants that were tough enough to withstand the climatic extremes of drought and flood, that were low maintenance and reliable in their horticultural uniformity and performance. We revolutionised the landscaping industry with natives that behaved the way we claimed they would, thanks to selective breeding and consistent trialling and testing of products in
u Nafray® Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘PA300’ A
the development phase, through to uniform propagation. Still today, new plants are only released to market when they successfully pass all vigorous controls, over several years. Describing the process, Todd said, “Discarding beautiful plants that do not perform in landscape testing is always the hardest part as a breeder but testing and not guessing is part of our culture”.
Over the last two decades, our plants have become landscape design darlings, featuring in high-profile landscapes all over the country. What started with signature Lomandras has led to a constant evolution in the plants that Todd bred. As the business evolved, we also became a representative for other national and international breeders needing a platform to distribute their carefully bred plants to growers and propagators alike.
Regular contact with the professionals in the landscaping industry has been at the core of new product development and acquisition and continues to be today. The plants they required or were at a loss to find, Todd has always sought to represent.
Looking forward
Breeding and selecting plants has never slowed down in the Ozbreed nursery, and the results of that focus will be revealed in the upcoming months and years. Plants that have been requested by industry, will become available to approved OEA nurseries, to buy, pot on and sell to a market that continues to go from strength to strength. As long as there is demand for exciting new plants and reliable performers, Ozbreed will continue to deliver them, and OEA-approved nurseries will have ‘easy access’ to growing them.
Scarlet Flame™ Callistemon viminalis ‘CC19’ A
Blue Horizon™ Eremophila glabra prostrate ‘EREM1’ A
Tanika® Lomandra longifolia ‘LM300’ A
Grey Box™ Westringia fruticosa ‘WES04’ A
Tree and Shrub Growers: Dinner and tour of Crittenden Estate
By Matt Ross
It seems that nothing draws a crowd of horticulturalists like a tour and dinner of a winery. On an autumnal Wednesday 28 April, over seventy NGIV members came along to the Tree and Shrub Growers April meeting at Crittenden Estate.
Rollo Crittenden, a second-generation winemaker, at the family business provided an expert tour of the mature vineyard that he helped plant as a child. Everyone sat down to enjoy a stunning dinner, catch up on industry news and make new acquaintances. And it would be rude not to cap off a fantastic evening without a tasting session of the Crittenden Estate wines.
Crittenden Estate has been a labour of love for Garry Crittenden, and his family. With a background in horticulture and inspired by his love of wine, Garry transitioned from nurseryman into viticulture in 1982 just as the Peninsula was emerging as a wine growing area.
The feedback from attendees was fantastic, and it was wonderful to see such diversity amongst the attendees and lots of new faces. The Tree and Shrub Grower meetings are proving to be a resounding success with a diverse offering of events, an inclusive and friendly atmosphere, and a growing guest list.
The Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria is the largest sectional interest group of the Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria
(NGIV). The group consists of members of the NGIV involved with nursery plant production and allied trade and provides fantastic networking opportunities across all areas of industry.
A big thank you, as ever, to the Tree and Shrub Growers committee:
Ben Scoble (Speciality Trees)
Carl Soderlund (Botanix Plant Supply)
Will McIntosh (Mansfield Propagation Nursery)
Howard Fox (Plant Growers Australia)
Our charismatic Chairman Heath McKenzie (Australian Growing Solutions) and NGIV’s Training & Events Officer Lizzie Earl, who work tirelessly to create an engaging calendar of events and an inclusive atmosphere.
If you, or your team, haven’t been to one of our events, make sure you join us next time. The more the merrier. Visit the events page at ngiv.com.au to see what’s coming up next.
By Nan Cleven
August Trade Day report
After an impressive Trade Day debut at KCC Park in July, with lots of kind words and positive feedback from the many stand holders and buyers in attendance, August was an opportunity for NGIV to make little tweaks and improvements to the operating process.
The attendance from stand holders and buyers alike was fantastic, especially given the ongoing difficulties of delivering in-person events. August was our last winter Trade Day before the colourful spring markets take over.
« The crew at Haar’s brightened things up with a stunning display of pre-spring blooms to entice buyers. Their cyclamens and African violets proved to be particularly popular.
There were early signs that spring is approaching at Trenton Cottage’s stand. A beautiful selection of potted Daffodils, Jonquils, Muscari, Wasabi and many other varieties of potted colour to tempt buyers. Deb and the team always know how to present a beautiful display.
A big thank you to August Trade Day sponsor Silver Industry Partner Humphris Nursery
It’s always nice to welcome back one of our members to Trade Day. True Blue Nursery made a welcome return with their beautiful stock and signage. We caught up with Ray and Jody, with one of their happy customers, Garry from Bamboo Creations.
« Not to be outdone, Zig and the crew from Hortwide, presented from their potted colour range, with dazzling petunias catching the eye of the buyers.
NGIV Trade Day is more than just a market, it’s:
• Australia’s premier wholesale trading market
• A monthly industry networking event
• A quarterly horticultural showcase Don’t miss out on:
• The finest quality greenlife and allied products
• The best wholesale prices
It fell to Mat Parker, Sales Representative and all-round nice guy, to ring the bell and commence trading.
« A big thanks to Dianne Mitchell of DNS Electric Vehicles who was on site Monday and Tuesday to help stand holders and buyers move their stock in and out of the shed.
DNS is a small family run business, based in Keysborough, proudly providing electric vehicle support to the nursery industry since 1995. Contact Dianne on (03) 9769 0201 | dnselectricvehicles.com.au
• The convenience of everything under one roof
• An unparalleled range of plants and gardening products
• Network with Australia’s leading growers, allied suppliers and other retailers
Join us next time to enjoy the experience and the benefits of NGIV Trade Day. Find out more at ngiv.com.au.
New nursery project offers free diagnostics to all production
By Andrew Manners
All commercial production nurseries can now receive six free diagnostic samples each calendar year via the diagnostic service, Grow Help Australia. This service is supported by the Hort Innovation and Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), the levy funded project ‘Resourcing, supporting, and assessing biosecurity in nursery production’ (NY20000).
Included in the testing are molecular identifications, where knowledge of the exact species will help growers to manage the problem more effectively. This service continues to help growers minimise losses and total discarded plants, and better manage and prevent future outbreaks. Any additional samples submitted are then charged at a much-reduced cost.
All commercial production nurseries across Australia can submit samples to Grow Help, based in Brisbane, as long as they are not subject to specific quarantine restrictions. For example, solanaceous hosts from Perth cannot be sent because of the tomato potato psyllid unless plants are treated appropriately. Refer to your state’s plant biosecurity organisation for more information.
Plant pest and disease diagnostics is complex, potentially with many causes to plant health problems. We aim to provide preliminary results to clients within a week. Depending on the tests that have to be completed and the type of pathogen isolated, it can take several weeks to get your results, sometimes longer in certain circumstances. We work to update you on new results that become available as soon as we can.
You can send us photos to growhelp@daf.qld.gov.au if you have a query about whether it is worthwhile submitting a sample. We will do our best to provide general advice in this way, but samples are often required before specific advice can
be given
Annual surveys of clients indicate that recommendations are helpful and have provided assistance to better manage pests and diseases, reduce crop loss and costs associated with managing the problem.
Nursery diagnostics is just one aspect of the levy funded project. They are also completing research to better understand the effect of nursery practice on pests and diseases present on plants post-sale. This will involve assessing the effect of
hygiene on pest and disease incidence to better understand the value of best practice management of nursery stock.
In addition, the project will continue producing new resources (factsheets, management plans, Nursery Papers and webinars) on various pests, diseases and plant health issues to be included in the Australia Plant Production Standard. In addition, old
factsheets and pest management plans will also be updated.
More information
If you have any queries about the project, please contact project lead and DAF Principal Entomologist, Horticulture and Forestry Science, Andrew Manners, at e: andrew.manners@daf.qld.gov.au.
Lemon infected with Phytophthora nicotianae.
Sedum infected with Fusarium wilt.
Preserving Cloudehill Gardens for Future Generations
The Diggers Foundation is very pleased to announce that the world class Cloudehill Gardens in Olinda will be preserved for future generations of garden lovers. Cloudehill creators Jeremy and Valerie Francis have guaranteed its preservation by signing a contract for its eventual transfer to the Diggers Foundation.
“We are delighted that Jeremy will continue to manage the garden as he has for nearly 30 years and oversee its ongoing development,” Clive Blazey, Founder of the Diggers Foundation said. “Very little at the garden will change apart from the eventual ownership and long-term preservation, which is pleasing for both Jeremy and I and the many thousands of garden visitors who relish its beauty,” Clive added.
Jeremy and Clive have been garden friends since the Diggers Club set up a garden shop at Cloudehill in 2014 and share concern over the preservation of leading Australian gardens. Both Clive and Jeremy are thrilled that now Cloudehill, one of Australia’s internationally-acclaimed gardens, will remain open to the public for generations of garden visitors to enjoy.
The seeds of the Diggers Foundation were sown nearly 40 years ago with the acquisition of historic Heronswood in 1983 by the Blazey family as their home and the headquarters of the fledgling Diggers Club. Clive reflects, “When you are lucky enough to be a custodian of a place like Heronswood or Cloudehill, you realise that precious historic houses and gardens should never be traded like real estate, but should be preserved for all to enjoy.”
In 1996 Tommy Garnett’s unique Garden of St Erth was bought by the Blazey family to ensure Tommy’s legacy would continue and be preserved as the second garden for Diggers. Cloudehill will be the third garden that the Diggers Foundation will own, giving access to three of Australia’s finest gardens to
Diggers Club members for free and other public visitors for a small fee which assists with upkeep.
“Because the preservation of Australia’s finest historic gardens gets no funding support from Government, the Diggers Foundation has emerged as a focused garden charity, in a similar tradition to the Royal Horticultural Society in the UK,” says Clive.
The Diggers Club now has over 80,000 members Australia wide and is best known for its campaigns against GMO seeds and its success in rescuing heirloom seeds. In 2011, the Blazey Family gifted The Diggers Club and its gardens to the charitable Diggers Foundation – a bequest estimated at over $15 million dollars – in order to ensure the Diggers legacy would continue and their historic gardens would be preserved. Profits from the Diggers Club now go to the Foundation and are combined with public donations and bequests to continue their work in preserving historic gardens and heirloom seeds.
Connecting Junior Gardeners
By Matt Ross
The Homegrown Meadow was a display garden created for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show by Master of Urban Horticulture students from the University of Melbourne.
NGIV, through the Victorian Schools Garden Program (VSGP), are 1 of only 39 organisations to have received funding for the Victorian Government Let’s Stay Connected Fund. The Fund was developed to help communities to stay connected during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and beyond. We’re excited to deliver an educational gardening resource to inspire the next generation of gardeners and reconnect children with their peers after what’s been a challenging time for them.
The Connecting Junior Gardeners Program is a four-part educational gardening resource developed by the VSGP for primary aged school children. The Program consists of a suite of videos, fact sheets and activities, developed to inspire and excite children to discover the joys and benefits of gardening together. Children will also get to pack their virtual school bags and join us for an exciting excursion!
Using VSGP’s extensive database of school contacts, the Program will expose thousands of Victorian youngsters to the benefits of gardening for the first time, for many years to come. We will also use the Program to engage relevant gov-
ernment ministers and inform them of the vital nature of Victoria’s horticultural industry.
In March we visited St Peters Primary School in Bentleigh East, to launch the Connecting Junior Gardeners Program. VSGP’s educational consultant, James McLennan, delivered a free incursion using the resources to help guide his teaching. Nick Staikos MP came along to see what all the fuss was about and left suitably impressed.
The school’s Sustainability Leader, Andrea Crough, confirmed the kids had a fantastic experience and were left enthused about the prospect of growing at school.
“The children had a fantastic day, they have an instinctive curiosity around growing. Gardening is a wonderful life skill and to inspire them at such a young age will benefit them and our broader society. I can’t wait to use the resources in the classroom.”
You can view and use the resources at vsgp.org.au/
Yarra View Nursery: making a difference in their community
By Matt Ross
On the face of it, Yarra View & Bushland Flora Nurseries are much like any other nursery; bursting with stunning plantlife, humming with activity and staffed by a knowledgeable, friendly team. And that’s how Yarra View want to be recognised, as a high calibre nursery, no special treatment. But there are special things happening every day.
The nursery employs 150 staff across its 3 sites, of which 85 have an intellectual disability.
Commercial Business Manager, Josh Kyne, believes horticulture is the perfect industry to provide meaningful, rewarding work and life skills to community members with an intellectual disability.
“Our staff receive first-class, focused training. They learn all the same skills that any other nursery-worker would learn. And you can witness people going on a journey of growth and confidence that is so rewarding to see. Some have been employed at the nursery for decades and they turn up day in day out with a smile on their face, eager to learn and get stuck into their work. Just the same as in any other nursery,” said Josh.
The nursery work gives the team a sense of purpose and responsibility. They’re working outdoors, surrounded by nature. They’re using their bodies. They’re invited to learn new skills and to work at their own pace. They’re engaging with the public and building a strong team dynamic with their colleagues.
Already one of the State’s largest employers of those with an intellectual disability, Yarra View Nursery are on a quest to employ and train more and more individuals. But to do so they need funds
Winning the contract to supply over 600,000 plants, shrubs and trees, for the Mordialloc Freeway Upgrade enabled them to employ another 10 staff and most importantly provide over 15,000 hours of employment. Yarra View & Bushland Flora also do a lot of work supplying plants for many Level
Crossing Removal Authority projects.
And they don’t receive any special treatment, they tender and compete with other growers to get the job. It’s their capacity to get the job done on time, whilst supplying quality plantlife, that seals the deal.
“It’s really hard to get a job with a disability. We’re here, showing that that needn’t be the case. With the correct framework, horticulture is an industry that can support these individuals and benefit from a passionate and committed team,” said Scott Buckland, CEO at Yarra View & Bushland Flora Nurseries.
Sadly, they aren’t immune to the destructiveness of Mother Nature. The June storms wreaked havoc at the nursery, causing $200,000 worth of damage.
Numerous large trees came down damaging poly tunnels, the shade-house, drainage, irrigation systems, vents, stock and more. They were also without
phones and internet for several days, which meant no sales or dispatch, and temporary closure.
Infrastructure damage and the clean-up is estimated to total $150,000, while the cost of lost trade, production and stock is estimated at $50,000.
“As a not for profit and a charity, we don’t have a lot of cash in the bank to buffer these sorts of things,” said Scott.
So, although it’s not something they usually do, they’ve created an appeal to raise funds to rebuild and repair –knoxbrooke-inc.giveeasy.org/the-greatstorm-recovery-appeal.
Located in beautiful Mount Evelyn at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges, Yarra View & Bushland Flora Nurseries are a valued member of NGIV. They are a division of Knoxbrooke Incorporated, a disability services organisation, focused on providing critical employment, training and support for people living with a disability and producing plants for distribution to popular retail chains and the commercial landscape sector. They
Tree & Shrub Growers: Technologies to
in nursery production
By Matt Ross
On Tuesday 29 September, the Tree & Shrub Growers held an online meeting to discuss how using technology can improve efficiencies in nursery production.
About the author Adrian Parsons, Managing Director Helix Australia and 160 Acres Group – a consulting company specialising in sales marketing advice for the horticultural industry.
helix.com.au | 160acres.com.au
Your workplace safety questions answered with Safe Ag Systems
By Angela Harders
NGIV are partnering with Safe Ag Systems to raise awareness about workplace safety risks affecting Victorian Nurseries. Their Workplace Health and Safety Manager, Angela Harders, will be giving her expert insights to all your safety related questions.
To kick things off here are two of their most frequently asked workplace safety queries.
What is best practice for Group Inductions?
When you have a number of people starting all at the same time, such as pickers, doing a group induction makes a lot of sense. Group inductions mean you can share the same information to many people at the same time, so are time and cost effective for a business, especially if they are doing similar work. You need to ensure all attendees understand the information, whatever their background. This may mean providing the induction in other languages, or perhaps using images and pictures, or showing a video of a process. You could even ask a few questions of attendees to confirm they have understood the information presented. It’s important to get the names of all attendees and get them to sign against their name as evidence they have attended.
How can you encourage workers to take safety seriously?
Workers will take your lead on safety. It’s not just what you say, it’s what you do that speaks volumes. Set the standard you expect when workers first start with you, and continue to reinforce this as part of daily operations Explain how they stay safe day to day, show them, teach them and hold them accountable for what you need them to do. Explain risks associated with your industry, machinery and tasks so people understand what can hurt them and how to stay safe. If you see something that isn’t safe, act on it. Pick up the hose across a walkway. Grab a trolley to move rootstock instead of carrying it. And encourage workers to report hazards and incidents – if you don’t know about it, you can’t address it. Safety is an all day, every day thing and if you take it seriously, your workers will too.
Introducing Angela Harders, Safe Ag Systems Workplace Health and Safety Manager
With more than 15 years’ experience working in the Safety Industry and Injury Management, Angela joined the Safe Ag Systems team In October 2019 to champion compliance relating to Health and Safety requirements in Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States.
Having grown up on the family grain and sheep farm in country Victoria, Angela knows personally the risks and hazards that are faced by the agricultural industry empowering her strong belief that prevention is better than a cure when it comes to safety. Witnessing injured family and friends over the years gave her the passion to help make agriculture a safer industry without making safety a burden.
Apart from supporting compliance and driving system developments, Angela is also involved with producing training content for Regional Skills Training Pty Ltd. She has previously covered important topics such as Biosecurity, Livestock Management and Freshcare.
As part of her approach to safety, Angela is convinced preventing injury is far more cost effective than money spent on increase workers’ compensation premiums and return to work costs.
Recently partnering with NGIV, Angela is committed to helping our members improve their safety practices. Send your questions to Angela e: angela@safeagsystems.com or t: 08 8490 0939. You are welcome to remain anonymous.
Interview with NextGen SUMMER JAMES
Plantmark Langwarrin
Where do you work and what is your role?
I currently work at Nishiki Nursery, a wholesale Japanese maple nursery which also specialise in bonsai, small shrubs, fruit and ornamental trees. Nishiki Nursery is located in Monbulk, in the beautiful Dandenong Rangers. My current roles at Nishiki Nursery include inventory manager in which I am responsible for putting plants onto the retail list from production, managing plantmark and plant multi broker stands and managing our social media platforms.
How long have you worked where you are and has your role progressed in the time you have been there?
I have been working at Nishiki Nursery for just over 1 and a half years. I started out as an apprentice picking orders, shortly after that I moved into production doing tree work and plant maintenance. Recently my job role has progressed as I am now in charge of inventory and responsible for re-stocking and upkeeping our broker stands. I have really enjoyed displaying our stock and taking pride in how our stands present to the industry. I am also learning office duties and how to manage our social media sites. I have loved all parts of the nursery, but I am really enjoying the challenges I face in my new role.
What do you like most about the nursery industry?
My favourite thing about the nursery industry is that there is always something new to learn in every department. There are also so many avenues you can go down because there is so much diversity in the horticulture world. I specifically love working outside in all weather conditions with my Nishiki workmates
and expanding my knowledge on plants and how to care for their individual needs. I really admire the diversity in staff at Nishiki Nursery and I hope to continue learning and gaining personal skills alongside of them.
How did you end up working in the nursery industry?
I grew up on a cut flower farm in the Dandenong Rangers so my love for plants and nursery work started when I was quite young. My dad and Grandpa taught me how to grow and care for plants such as Liliums and Rhododendrons. I finished school and did a bit of landscaping which I loved but wanted more of a routine. I then started an apprenticeship working for a Protea nursery in Monbulk but wanted to expand my knowledge even more by growing more variety of bigger trees and shrubs. That is when I found Nishiki.
What is a typical day like for you?
I usually start my day checking emails and preparing my week with plant checks such as production to retail. This is when I physically check plants that have been potted up and cared for by our amazing team to see whether they are ready to sell or not. I have gained this knowledge and skill by working in sales and production over the years. I will also organise my truck run to Plantmark and Plant Multi to restock the stands with our fresh stock for the following day. I also try to do all my small jobs like checking label counts, putting new signs on our new plants and entering new data onto the computer.
Are any of your family members in the horticulture industry?
As I mentioned before my Grandfather and Dad have always been in the horticulture industry. I was lucky enough to be born into such a passionate family who had such an awesome outlook on all things growing. I used to love driving around the farm with my Pop as I use to
bombard him with questions on how and why things grew and why they looked the way they did, and I have never stopped learning and expanding my knowledge since then. My family have been such a huge inspiration to how I view horticulture and I will always be thankful for that.
Have you studied horticulture and where?
I have successfully completed a 4-year apprenticeship at Swinburne university in which I learnt more than I ever thought I could and made some great long-life friends and connections along the way. I loved the study and work combination as it made the week feel so full and busy. I hope to one day study at a higher level to expand my knowledge even more.
Where would you like your career to go within the industry?
I hope to continue my work at Nishiki Nursery and expand my knowledge on sales and how to run a small business. I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by great mentors who helped me understand why and how things happen within horticulture and I would love to be able to do the same once I become more knowledgeable. I cannot wait to be a mentor for the younger generation of horticulturalists in the coming years.
Proudly sponsored by
Interview with NextGen TEAGAN FAULL
Nishiki Nursery
Where do you work and what is your role?
I currently work at Nishiki Nursery, a wholesale Japanese maple nursery which also specialise in bonsai, small shrubs, fruit and ornamental trees. Nishiki Nursery is located in Monbulk, in the beautiful Dandenong Rangers. My current roles at Nishiki Nursery include inventory manager in which I am responsible for putting plants onto the retail list from production, managing plantmark and plant multi broker stands and managing our social media platforms.
How long have you worked where you are and has your role progressed in the time you have been there?
I have been working at Nishiki Nursery for just over 1 and a half years. I started out as an apprentice picking orders, shortly after that I moved into production doing tree work and plant maintenance. Recently my job role has progressed as I am now in charge of inventory and responsible for re-stocking and upkeeping our broker stands. I have really enjoyed displaying our stock and taking pride in how our stands present to the industry. I am also learning office duties and how to manage our social media sites. I have loved all parts of the nursery, but I am really enjoying the challenges I face in my new role.
What do you like most about the nursery industry?
My favourite thing about the nursery industry is that there is always something new to learn in every department. There are also so many avenues you can go down because there is so much diversity in the horticulture world. I specifically love working outside in all weather conditions with my Nishiki workmates and expanding my knowledge on plants and how to care for their individual needs. I really admire the diversity in staff at Nishiki Nursery and I hope to continue learning and gaining personal skills alongside of them.
How did you end up working in the nursery industry?
I grew up on a cut flower farm in the Dandenong Rangers so my love for plants and nursery work started when I was quite young. My dad and Grandpa taught me how to grow and care for plants such as Liliums and Rhododendrons. I finished school and did a bit of landscaping which I loved but wanted more of a routine. I then started an apprenticeship working for a Protea nursery in Monbulk but wanted to expand my knowledge even more by growing more variety of bigger trees and shrubs. That is when I found Nishiki.
What is a typical day like for you?
I usually start my day checking emails and preparing my week with plant checks such as production to retail. This is when I
physically check plants that have been potted up and cared for by our amazing team to see whether they are ready to sell or not. I have gained this knowledge and skill by working in sales and production over the years. I will also organise my truck run to Plantmark and Plant Multi to restock the stands with our fresh stock for the following day. I also try to do all my small jobs like checking label counts, putting new signs on our new plants and entering new data onto the computer.
Are any of your family members in the horticulture industry?
As I mentioned before my Grandfather and Dad have always been in the horticulture industry. I was lucky enough to be born into such a passionate family who had such an awesome outlook on all things growing. I used to love driving around the farm with my Pop as I use to bombard him with questions on how and why things grew and why they looked the way they did, and I have never stopped learning and expanding my knowledge since then. My family have been such a huge inspiration to how I view horticulture and I will always be thankful for that.
Have you studied horticulture and where?
I have successfully completed a 4-year apprenticeship at Swinburne university in which I learnt more than I ever thought I could and made some great long-life friends and connections along the way. I loved the study and work combination as it made the week feel so full and busy. I hope to one day study at a higher level to expand my knowledge even more.
Where would you like your career to go within the industry?
I hope to continue my work at Nishiki Nursery and expand my knowledge on sales and how to run a small business. I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by great mentors who helped me understand why and how things happen within horticulture and I would love to be able to do the same once I become more knowledgeable. I cannot wait to be a mentor for the younger generation of horticulturalists in the coming years.
If you have a project you want profiled in the next ODS Exemplary Showcase contact Pilar Danlag at pdanlag@umco.com.au
“ ” The physical properties of the mix can significantly impact nutrient uptake…
“ ” …reducing the amount of labour required to create a product results in increased profit.
New members
A big welcome to our latest members who joined the NGIV in February and March. We look forward to helping you build your business and a long and fruitful relationship.
Quick-Pick Seedlings (Production)
Quick-Pick Seedlings (QPS) sow a large variety of vegetable seedlings and has a proven capacity to produce high volume wholesale orders for Victoria. They provide commercial grade seedlings and are committed to exceeding client expectations.
qpseedlings.com.au
Cocohouse Australia (Allied)
Manufacturers and suppliers of premium quality organic coir growing media; 100 per cent organic, natural, biodegradable soilless. They also have erosion counter, landscape and garden products, and commercial and Industrial rubber mats.
cocohouse.net.au
Essentially Natural (Allied)
A provider of Australian made, sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives. They specialise in organic fertiliser, natural cleaning products, mould removal and biodegradeable bags. essentiallynatural.com.au
Contact Organics Australia (Allied)
Contact Organics introduces an innovative and natural Weed Killer to the safe weed control space - a series of bio-herbicides made from Acetic Acid! By combining cutting-edge technology, in-depth scientific research and natural ingredients, we present a breakthrough in environmentally friendly weed control.
contactorganics.com.au
Balcony Gardens By Deepdale (Allied)
Balcony Gardens by DEEPDALE is a boutique studio based in Melbourne creating unique bespoke garden spaces and designs tailored to our client’s needs, desires and preferences. They also create designs for courtyards, small gardens and patios.
bgbdeepdale.com.au
Rosewood Nursery Sales & Transport (Allied)
Rosewood Nursery Sales & Transport began trading in 1991, operating from a centralised depot facility in Kenthurst, NSW Owners, Roger & Alexandra Ambrose, have over 25 years of experience in the
Tap into NGIV’s complimentary
As Victoria’s peak industry body, we are committed to helping your business to grow. As a member of Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria you have access to many benefits, whether it’s our ongoing advocacy work for the industry, promoting your business to your target audience, access to industry training for your team or the opportunity to network with the best in the business.
We have also built up a community of expert professionals who understand the industry and will provide a complimentary service to support your business.
Receive a free four-hour business diagnostic from NGIV industry partner, Moshie – Enterprise coaching and development. Contact Bruce Yelland on m: 0412 241 801 or e: bruce@moshie.biz
For general industrial relations queries contact Sheena Kane of Kane Independent Consulting on m: 0413 191 708 or e: skane@kaneindependentconsulting.com.au
For legal matters, Michael Coker of NGIV industry partner Piper Alderman, will provide a complimentary one-hour phone consultation. Contact Michael on m: 0417 334 232 or e: MCoker@piperalderman.com.au
For accountancy advice SMART Business Solutions will provide a complimentary 30-minute phone call. Contact Paul Cunningham e: paul@smartbusinesssolutions.com.au
Understand your businesses insurance needs with a complimentary visit from NGIV partner Gallagher, specialist insurance provider for the nursery and garden industry. Contact James Walker on m: 0412 583 831 or e: james.walker@ajg.com.au
With a combined value of over $3000, this is just one more reason why your NGIV membership represents excellent value for your business. And that’s not to mention the free expert support from the NGIV team.
If you’re not an NGIV member – join today
Appealing to the current trend in terrariums Tell stories to attract attention: “Plants increase Focus!”
The tall feature pot attracts attention. Using plants in consistent colours maintains attention.
Tony Allsop, Acorn Nursery and Kosta Salatas
Desmond Maidment and Phil Shaw, Mt William Advanced Tree Nursery
Jessica Teese and Craig Taberner
Highly commended: Jane Saunders, Se-
Highly commended: Phil Stevens, Apple
2nd Place: Ali Rahimi, Bobbing
3rd Place: Wesley Dombrecht, Pink Lady Domed Highly commended: Kayako
Adven-
1st Place: Michael Meisen, Still Life
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria wins major Victorian Tourism award
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria won the Major Tourist Attractions category at the Victorian Tourism Awards, held on November 28, 2019 by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC).
The judges selected Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria from many outstanding competitors based on its achievements in areas of tourism, business planning, marketing, customer service and sustainability.
’This award is recognition that our Cranbourne and Melbourne Gardens are not only places for contemplation, learning and science, but one of the world’s great tourist destinations,’ said Tim Entwisle, Director and Chief Executive. ’As someone said to us at the awards night ‘Of course you should win, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is the future of tourism in Victoria’. I agree!’
’And there is more to come. We have big events planned for both Gardens, including a first for Australia, Lightscape. This illuminated light trail builds on the success of Fire Gardens and offers yet another incentive for Victorians and tourists from around the world to visit Melbourne and to experience our beautiful Melbourne Gardens. It will bring more people to Victoria in winter and provide a new night-time attraction.’
With Gardens in both Melbourne and Cranbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (RBGV) offers a strong program of visitor experiences including guided walks, nature education, Indigenous led walks, mini-bus tours, picnic packages, retail, food and beverage and arts and cultural experiences. Both Gardens attract interstate and overseas visitors, with over 2.3 million people visiting both Gardens combined last year.
The future of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria continues to get brighter. The organisation is committed to creating a welcoming gateway to nature in Victoria with the proposed development of a Nature and Science Precinct: an attractor for tourism and a place where visitors can engage in lifelong learning. The precinct responds to evidence highlighting the link between increased connection with nature and improved physical and mental wellbeing
Landscaping Victoria 2019 award winners
The Sustainable Landscape
Winner: Australian Ecosystems, Port Melbourne Project Judge’s Comments:
“At first appearing to be quite simple, this Australian Ecosystems project was a wonderful surprise package. Looking beyond the surface it was discovered to be truly inspirational in regard to sustainable practice. The modular construction of the garden beds utilise recycled materials and every segment of the food cycle has been considered, whilst simultaneously addressing heat island effect and urban hydrological systems.
Truly a design for the future, Australian Ecosystems are to be congratulated for addressing waste processing, reducing pressure on storm water systems, food security and social issues when planning this productive urban landscape.”
Greener Spaces Better Places
Introducing Greener Spaces Better Places, the new name for 202020 Vision! As Australia’s cities, towns and suburbs grow, so should their green spaces.
Greener Spaces Better Places’ mission is to make Australia’s urban areas the greenest in the world.
Looking back, what's been achieved?
202020 Vision launched in 2013 and since then, the program has brought together 7,000+ organisations and individuals to form the world’s biggest network of green space champions
The aspirational goal of 20% green space by 2020 also generated a vast amount of research, advocacy, awareness and actual plants in the ground.
Gardening continues to bring wellbeing releaf to the public
By Matt Ross
Garden Releaf was established by Garden Centres of Australia (GCA) in 2014 to help people understand the many benefits of gardening and plantlife for our health and wellbeing. Now in its seventh year, Garden Releaf has gone from strength to strength; exposing thousands of Australians to gardening and raising over $330,000 for Beyond Blue in the process.
GCA Manager, Leigh Siebler, was eager to establish a program to promote gardening to the public. In 2014 he organised an industry event and heard ou’re a retailer and you’d like to take part in the 2022 Garden Releaf registrations will open in October 2021.
SEPTEMBER
3-8 September
• European Symposium on the Quality of Poultry Products. Edinburgh, Scotland.
4-8 September
• WAAVP. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
2020 EVENTS
10-14 September
• International Egg Commission (IEC) Global Leadership Conference. Brugge, Belgium.
MARCH
3rd Trade Day (Gala Day –Closes 11:30am followed by BBQ)
5th Lean leaders
20th Lean Leaders
Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS)
25th Opening day
26th TSG event at the Show 6pm to 9pm everyone welcome to attend
27th Gardens by Twilight 6pm to 9pm
28th MIFGS
29th MIFGS Last Day
APRIL
3rd Lean Leaders
7th Trade Day
17th Lean Leaders
21st TSG and Retail joint event
MAY
1st Lean Leaders
5th Trade Day
15th Lean Leaders
19th TSG event
29th Lean Leaders
JUNE
2nd Trade Day
(Gala Day – Closes 11am followed by BBQ)
12th Lean Leaders
JULY
7th Trade Day (closes at 11am)
28th TSG Event
AUGUST
4th Trade Day
18th TSG event
SEPTEMBER
1st Trade Day (Gala Day – Closes 11am followed by BBQ)
15th TSG event
2020 TRADE DAY DATES
MONTH
Tuesday February 4
Tuesday March 3 GALA
Tuesday April 7
Tuesday May 5
Tuesday June 2 GALA
Tuesday July 7
Tuesday August 4
Tuesday September 1 GALA
Tuesday October 6
Tuesday November 10
Tuesday December 1 GALA
Preliminary Calendar. Dates subject to change. Details of Events and booking details will be released closer to each date. Please check our website for the latest information.
“It has to be the ‘Monbulk Mafia’. Leo Koelwyn, David Daly Senior, Bob Allison, Peter De Groot and Frank Hammond. Industry decisions were made and protocols set, all in the name of improving the Victorian industry and ensuring everyone pulled their weight to all flourish.
”Greg Carrick, Sales Manager, Garden City Plastics
“Meeting and networking with the growers of our products, learning what was working well for them so we could meet what they and the consumer were after. The ‘buzz’ that trade day generates, there was such a positive vibe in the atmosphere, smiling faces all around, reflecting the season was looking good!
”Kate Grant, Marketing Manager, Ball Australia
“My abiding memory of Trade Day is getting to know people in our wonderful industry and having fun decorating our stand for special occasions such as Think Pink, Christmas and Halloween Ausflora Pacific is 40 years old this year and I believe we’ve been attending Trade Day from almost the beginning.
”Linda Sijpkes, Nursery Manager, Ausflora
“ ”My abiding memory of trade day are the people I have met along the way from other participants to the many customers who have come and gone over the past 35 years, made a lot of friends and contacts which could only occur through events like this. Trade Day has been our main point of contact with the rest of the industry.
Jeno Kapitany, Owner, Paradisia Nursery
“I remember attending Trade Day while a student at Burnley, the scale and activity was simply impressive.
The Scotsburn display allegedly creeping beyond our specified boundary was the cause a famous “confrontation” involving long time Market Manager, Frank Hammond. The stand holder opposite us had stock spilling into the pathway. Frank was policing the paths and the stand holder pointed at our display suggesting Scotsburn had stock on the path. Frank was having none of it and read them the riot act, meanwhile I was looked for a hole in the floor to swallow me up.
Apart from that it’s always been a great opportunity to check what’s happening in the broader marketplace, catch up with colleagues and customers, especially those from areas we can call on regularly. Trade Day has also provided a terrific venue for a product launch or a celebration.
“In the early years, after the market closed, most stand holders would meet for lunch at about four venues which were determined by the direction you travelled home. This demonstrated the great friendship that existed between them.
”Justin Muhlebach, Owner, Flinders Nursery
“Getting up at 4am come rain, hail or shine to open gates, organise trucks and set up tables for a 7:00am start. Making sure everyone obeyed the strict rules set up by the original committee back in the mid 1970’s and there were some memorable occasions when some overstepped the mark. Any early members will have some recollection of these.
”Frank Hammond, Market Manager
Whilst we have many great memories of bringing the industry together at Caribbean Gardens, we’re excited about the opportunity that comes with change, to do things differently and create new memories together.
The time for change is now Monbulk Rural becomes Hortitech and Horticraft
By Matt Ross
There comes a time when a business must decide whether they will stick or twist. For Monbulk Rural that time is now and they’re choosing to twist. Established in 1982, they’ve been servicing the nursery and flower industries, providing crop protection solutions to almost every area of horticulture and agriculture. We caught up with Accounts and Manufacturing Coordinator, Dean Smith and Marketing Coordinator Ashley O’Hara to find out more about the changes they’re undertaking.
With increasing demand for their products from New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and most recently the Northern Territory, Monbulk Rural, a name that is tied to it’s Victorian location, will be phased out and replaced by Hortitech. Their motto, grow with us, seems even more fitting as they look to build on what they’ve achieved in Victoria.
“It’s sad to see the name go, I’ve been here a number of years and it will be strange to not be Monbulk Rural. But I completely appreciate that as we grow and supply to more of Australia it makes sense to move away from that localised feel,” said Dean
They’ll still be delivering the same high-quality product and supporting their customers with outstanding service. For decades customers have enjoyed visiting their site in Monbulk, talking to Stan, their manufacturing foreman or Richard, their yard hand, about their needs. And that personal touch will not be compromised, it’s part of their DNA.
They’re also launching a sister company, Horticraft, which will
take on the wholesale side of the business; supplying bulk greenhouse plastic, weed matting, bird netting, new build shade structures, and the like. They’ve established a warehouse in Gatton, QLD, and are looking for a suitable premises in Tasmania, to house wholesale products that they can quickly distribute to interstate customers.
And now they want to get the word out; to share their new identity and start telling their story. They’ve created a new website (hortitech.net.au) that allows customers to place their own orders for increased efficiency and Ashley has started applying her creativity and energy to their social media channels to share the skill and workmanship that goes into their design and manufacturing.
And Dean’s quick to point out it’s already being reflected through their sales. “We shared photos of Stan manufacturing our benches on Instagram and received so many comments from customers who had no idea that we manufacture everything right here, from the benches and potting trolleys to the tunnel
house kits. That really blew me away and made me see the value of creating and sharing more content to tell our story.”
And for every innovation and step forward they take they are careful to retain things that still work.
They’ve expanded their team to bring in a civil engineer for the first time, but they still use the same 70-year-old rolling machine.
The orange branding stays, but the shade will have a refresh.
The recruitment of younger team members is balanced with the retention of those that have been part of the team for decades and carry so much knowledge, indeed original owner
Dave Arnott, now 76, chooses to work three days a week and enjoys sharing what he knows. Stan has been part of the team for 25 years, Richard 12 and Heather 11.
And why would they want to leave, together they’ve cultivated a special workplace culture. This is a united team who learn from and inspire one another. They all know their roles and owner James trusts they will execute them. This is not a place for micromanagement or hierarchical structures; they respect each other’s talents and enjoy one another’s company too much
As I left the Hortitech offices I could feel the excitement and the passion they have for where they’re heading. Change isn’t always easy but sometimes it’s necessary and NGIV is looking forward to seeing Hortitech and Horticraft expand their business throughout Australia.
“The launch of Hortitech and Horticraft, and the new website, represents the biggest changes in our 39-year history. But it’s the right time. It’s big for us, it’s big for our customers and
A nurseryman and his nursery Evan Clucas, Kuranga Native Nursery
By Jane Edmanson
Jane Edmanson, caught up with her friend and nurseryman, Evan Clucas, to discover where his passion for growing came from, how his love of native plants shaped his garden and nursery, and how the public perception of native plants has changed through the years.
Evan Clucas and Leanne Weston are well known for their love of native plants. Their retail nursery, Kuranga Native Nursery in Mount Evelyn, is always a delight for gardeners to visit.
When he was a young lad, Evan’s parents had half an acre in Mont Albert that they let him plant up. They also owned a bush block in Pakenham Upper where he loved to roam around and take note of the bird and plant life which instilled a love of nature that has never left him.
Actually, his first love was birdlife, and he became interested in which plants attracted birds, then eventually nature and plants took over.
Evan is blessed with a large one-acre garden, populated entirely with native plants. There is a wide variety, a bit of everything, he is not prejudiced in his choices. He loves the way plants meld together in shape and form and is passionate about different plant groups, such as eucalypt, grevilleas, boronias,
phebalium and as he calls them, the “odd ball” persoonias.
Over the years he has had a significant collection of native plants, sometimes certain varieties fade away to make room for another collection. Right now, his attention is on the Phebalium species.
“It is a plant that should be better known by growers and gardeners, as they are so rewarding, such easy maintenance and with wonderful colourful flowers.” Says Evan.
Evan has always liked walking in the bush and in the past has gone on collecting trips, having his garden and nursery provides places that he can showcase his native plants.
There is so much diversity and things are always changing, for instance the general public’s interest in bush food is huge. It has always filled a small niche but now it is quite a trend. He loves the way breeding and research has meant that so many native plants are smaller growing and freer flowering,
and this will go on infinitum.
Evan says that everyone has learnt so much about the incredible range of Australian plants compared to where gardeners started in the 1970’s and 80’s. He gives the example of Grevillea rosmarinifolia which was “a prickly old choice” in those days, choices were minimal, but nowadays there are over a dozen varieties including hybrids and lower growing species that are vastly superior.
Evan and his partner, Leanne, had always wanted to own a nursery. Evan had gained experience working in a large production nursery and Leanne started her career at a retail nursery.
They opened Kuranga Native Nursery in Ringwood in 1983 and the first thing they realised was that there was only a very limited range of native plants being grown in the mainstream native nursery industry. They wanted to stock the nursery with a decent range so they had to grow a lot of their own stock. The nursery has always had a reputation for carrying an impressive range of plants and soon customers were coming from near and far.
The nursery continued operating from Ringwood until 2005 when they moved to a beautiful four-acre site in Mount Evelyn. The new site incorporates new features like a gift shop and their Paper Bark Café offering lots of Australian bush food and products.
“The overall picture for native plants is very encouraging, especially with the variety that is available for today’s smaller gardens.”
As they step back a little from the day to day running of Kuranga, the nursery is in good hands. Together they have created a friendly and knowledgeable team of nursery people who are dedicated and enthusiastic to continue their work.
Located at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, NGIV Member Kuranga Nursery, displays Australia’s largest range of Australian native plants and is a must visit.
A big thank you to Jane Edmanson for writing this piece and
THE IMPORTANCE OF HORTICULTURE TO THE VICTORIAN ECONOMY
With targeted government investment and support, horticulture in its broadest sense can improve the health and well-being of all Victorians, drive further economic development, boost tourism and create the green infrastructure Victoria needs to remain liveable and resilient. To this end, NGIV seeks to:
• Establish dedicated resources within the public sector that are directly aligned to horticulture, chartered with the responsibility to support commercial investment, thereby unlocking economic opportunities and reducing unnecessary regulation.
• Acknowledge the economic value of horticulture to Victoria by strengthening government and industry partnerships through consultation on policy decisions that may negatively impact business investment.
• Encourage and facilitate government investment to help drive Victoria as Australia’s home of horticultural activity and major events through our Botanic Gardens, Open Garden Schemes and the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
• Partner with government to develop an advertising/marketing campaign designed to promote the benefits of a green Victoria, given the contributions horticulture and green infrastructure deliver in developing healthy communities, the economy and environment.
ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Victoria is Australia’s horticultural hub and by recognising NGIV’s efficient water-use and re-use practices and the benefit for
households, communities and the wider horticultural industry, NGIV seeks:
• Government support to engage with water retailers and relevant agencies to form a meaningful collaboration with industry, with a shared goal of educating consumers about efficient water management practices.
• Government support and grant funding to connect businesses with class A water supplies to enable improvement in business productivity and performance.
• Government support and grant funding to connect businesses with class A water supplies to enable improvement in business productivity and performance.
• The convening of a high-level government working group, chartered with the responsibility to examine Melbourne’s future water challenges and options, and its impact on industry, household welfare and the overall community benet a ced greening agenda will bring.
JOBS, SKILLS AND PRODUCTIVITY
To amplify the Victorian Government’s commitment to horticultural TAFE courses, NGIV seeks to partner with Government to ensure that our next generation of horticulturists meet the needs of a resilient, sustainable and skilled workforce, now and into the future through:
• Government investment in a comprehensive review of the Victorian horticulture sector to identify employee shortages and improve future workforce planning, encourage business investment and provide direction as to how the sector can better market horticulture as a career of choice.
• Increased commitment to horticultural education via the Victorian Schools Garden Program, highlighting the benefit of horticultural education to health and well-being, inclusive of development of associated horticulture learning resources.
• Ensure that all green infrastructure procurement for Victorian Government projects are sourced from Victorian horticultural businesses, thereby ensuring all economic productivity returns remain within Victoria.
CLIMATE, ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH
Immersion in horticulture can enrich the lives of all Victorians. It is a gateway to a life-long connection with nature and we must recognise the importance of horticulture to the health of people and our planet. Green infrastructure provides essential environmental services, mitigating climatic events, and benefiting our physical and mental health and wellbeing. To support this goal, NGIV seeks to:
• Engage with Government to establish a ‘Ministerial Green Infrastructure Advisory Committee (MGIAC)’ with the aim of facilitating integrated, collaborative and equitable urban and regional green infrastructure planning, to deliver quality outcomes for Victorians. In this regard:
» We note that a broad range of departments, agencies (VicRoads/ VicTrack), local government, and other stakeholders have stewardship over Victorian land assets, which at times results in fragmented or absent green infrastructure outcomes, whereas Victoria should be well positioned to deliver green infrastructure that benefits all Victorians.
» A stronger state-led approach through the MGIAC would provide the
leadership and governance to enable Plan Melbourne’s, and Victoria’s wider greening and liveability agenda, to be multifunctional and networked, achieving economic, societal and environmental benefits and in building resilience for all Victorians, leaving a thriving green legacy.
• Identify and amend those areas within the Victorian Planning Scheme that currently are in opposition to Victoria’s future green infrastructure objectives, such as:
» The failure to reflect the original intent of the Minimum Garden Area Requirement in the Victorian Planning Scheme to deliver quality green infrastructure and plantable surfaces, whereas performance-based targets to increase permeability, environmental performance and health and well-being benefits for the occupants of all new buildings should be incorporated.
• Incentivise private landholders to exceed minimum green infrastructure targets, by establishing a program to reverse the current trend of losses from this sector, referenced alongside international best practice.
• Support local governments to increase capacity in developing, enhancing and protecting green infrastructure in their communities through:
» higher density and greater diversity plantings and ongoing maintenance;
» improved management and planning of linear infrastructure that currently competes for space with green infrastructure e.g.: sufficiently sized verges and appropriately located underground services in new developments to enable the planting of passively irrigated trees;
» comprehensive data capture, compliance and enforcement of existing and new vegetated areas.
BIOSECURITY AND MARKET ACCESS
Ensure Victoria remains the national leader in biosecurity management by:
• Building biosecurity capacity through an increase in monitoring ,diagnostic, compliance and response capabilities, closing biosecurity knowledge gaps and boosting preparedness activities.
• Supporting the development of two biosecurity pilot projects in collaboration with industry:
» A formal horticultural registration and licensing system to improve identification, traceability, communication and to expedite emergency plant pest responses.
» A co-regulatory market access project that empowers industry and delivers better biosecurity outcomes for all Victorians
Oasis Horticulture and Kangan Institute collaborate to upskill
By Matt Ross
In an industry first, Oasis Horticulture and Kangan Institute are collaborating to deliver Certificate lll in Horticulture at Oasis’ Devon Meadows site. We went along to their Program Launch on 18 May to learn more about how the collaboration came about, to speak to those involved and understand the benefits.
Oasis Horticulture and Kangan Institute are conducting the program under the auspices of the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE initiative. The program will deliver a relevant horticultural industry prescribed tertiary course to upskill Oasis Horticulture employees within the convenience of their workplace.
Oasis Horticulture are currently supporting 36 of their existing permanent and casual employees to undertake a pilot of the 18-month course.
One of the students, Belinda Reville, Pots and Packing Team Leader in Dispatch, has been with Oasis Horticulture for two years and has welcomed the opportunity to step back into the ‘classroom’ and undertake a formal qualification.
‘There is no way I would have been able to study horticulture unless it was for the convenience of being able to do it at work, during my working day and without a cost attached. It’s motivated me, it’s making me a better horticulturist and means I’m able to apply my knowledge to different areas of the nursery rather than be pigeonholed into just one.’
‘As a team we’re coming together, getting to know one another better, and we’re all encouraging one another to do our best. A lot of us have worked in the nursery industry for a lot of years without a formal qualification, it’s fulfilling to have all that knowledge and experience recognised. It’s been a gamechanger.’
The idea for the Program came about when Stephen Lade, Operations Manager at Oasis, connected with Kris Barker, Business Development Manager at Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute, at an industry event last year. Kris introduced Stephen to the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE initiative and the potential to upskill his workforce at their site.
Six months into the pilot program and Stephen is starting to see the impact that the course is having, ‘I think the biggest benefit we’ve seen to date is that as a business we have employees who are skilled across multiple areas of the nursery That means the team can step into different areas as and when we need them to.’
‘Looking ahead when we have our busier periods and bring in casual staff with less experience, we’ve got a cohort here that can effectively train them and bring them up to speed more efficiently. We aren’t a nursery that relies on automation to do the work, the knowledge and skills of our team is key to what we do.’
The training is delivered to fit around Oasis’s work schedule; more training during quieter periods and less training when they’re busy.
The educators from Kangan Institute are also enjoying the opportunity to deliver training on-site. Alisa, Horticulture Teacher at Kangan Institute, ‘we’re able to deliver hands-on training and apply the learning to the students work site, it brings everything to life. Working with students that are already
part of the industry, they know a lot already, they just need to develop their confidence and this program is giving them that.’
Kris Barker has been delighted with the partnership with Oasis Horticulture and the opportunity to deliver onsite training at a Victorian horticulture business for the first time.
‘Oasis have been wonderful to work with. They’ve been very communicative about their needs, and it’s been very much a partnership. Already we’re hearing that some of the students are being recruited into leadership positions. The success of this program using the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE initiative shows that this is a viable delivery model which other horticulture businesses can benefit from.’
Craig Taberner CEO of NGIV, Victoria’s industry body for horticulture, is also enthusiastic about the program and said, ‘as an industry we are experiencing challenges in attracting and retaining skilled workers, the convenience of this training program offers an innovative approach to meeting those challenges.’
More information
Bendigo Kangan Institute (BKI) delivers the Certificate III in Horticulture course direct to industry across Victoria. For further information relating to the onsite delivery of the Horticulture programs please contact: Kris Barker
Business Development Manager – Major Projects & Workplace Delivery
m: 0402099760 | e: k.barker@bendigotafe.edu.au
Riverside Gardens: a family business delighting customers for 40 years
By Rosalie Smith
This year Riverside Gardens, Shepparton, celebrates its 40th anniversary in business. Having been a member of the NGIV from the get-go, Groundswell wanted to catch up with the owners to learn more about the nursery, the role it plays in the community, the team, and the key to its longevity and success.
The Smith family history with Riverside Gardens began back in 1982, when Moira and Bob Smith purchased the original nursery on the banks of the Broken River.
‘We loved the big claret ash trees scattered throughout which gave the nursery a real character of its own,’ said Bob.
Moira and Bob’s sons, Larry, Murray and Rodney, all joined the family business and are at the helm today, growing the business
As have so many horticultural businesses, they’ve had to navigate their way through more than their fair share of challenges – from fires and droughts to restricted trading and economic recessions.
The 1993 floods were devastating for the nursery. It was the generosity and support of their staff, customers, friends and suppliers within the industry that made the Smiths want to keep going and bring the nursery back better than ever. The floods became a catalyst for change.
In 1996, the nursery relocated to Emerald Bank, the current site. It was a gamble; without any neighbouring businesses, the new site wasn’t a customer destination. That’s all changed now, they’ve been joined by a number of other businesses and Emerald Bank has attracted more visitors than they could have imagined. The gamble has paid off!
With the relocation, the family seized the opportunity to reimagine their product offering and nursery layout, adding a mini golf course that took players through their stunning display gardens. In 2008, 2009 and 2010, they were rewarded by winning the Best Medium Garden Centre of Victoria three times in a row.
These days, while plants remain the central draw card and passion of the business, the nursery has expanded its offering into a garden centre, selling giftware, home décor, garden décor, clothing and furniture. Utilising the latest technology and an outstanding network of quality growers and specialised plant transport companies, plants are sourced from all over the eastern states rather than weekly dashes to Melbourne to try and find stock.
Riverside Gardens is very much a family business and enjoys the stability and strength that brings. Four of the core team are family members with the rest being long-term employees. They are all on the same page and working towards a common goal. Most of the team are qualified horticulturists, but their true expertise is their ability to connect with people, listening to and interpreting what they are looking for.
The business plays an integral role in the local community, outside of the usual garden centre offering of supplying
quality plants, products and horticultural advice.
‘Our staff regularly speak at the various surrounding regional garden clubs. We also offer a place where friends and families come together to enjoy the outdoors, picnics, wedding ceremonies, family gatherings and fun and entertainment. We also support the community through school excursions, community events, sponsorship of sports clubs, community interest groups, and fundraisers.
‘We are more than just a garden centre. With our mini golf course, set among just over two hectares (five acres) of display gardens, we play our part in drawing visitors to the Goulburn Valley to spend time and money within the local community,’ explained Larry.
And word has certainly got out! Some of their regular customers drive as much as an hour to visit them, with their effort repaid through expert advice, outstanding stock range and an overall enjoyable day out.
Being a regional garden centre is not without its difficulties. A lack of immediate access to the supplier market and freight can mean that a busy midweek results in getting caught short of stock leading into a busy weekend, without an option to react quickly. The family has learnt to adapt to this inconvenience and are rarely caught out these days.
With decades of experience behind them, what advice would the owners give to other garden centres hoping to enjoy the same level of longevity and success?
‘Keep your eyes and ears open. You can always learn from what your peers are offering. Don’t be afraid to look outside of our industry as well.
‘Know your customers, listen to their concerns and needs. Know your product, your offering and what it is really worth –don’t undersell it. Keep adapting, embrace change and make
the most of what works for you,’ says Larry.
With 40 years of NGIV membership under its belt, the management team at Riverside Gardens values the advocacy efforts of the state association and the regular industry updates that keep them informed. They encourage more retailers to consider NGIV membership and NGIV, in turn, to deliver even more for their retail members.
‘It’s such a great industry to be part of. Working in the fresh air, growing things, creating beautiful environments to live in and helping people do the same. To drive past a customer’s garden a few years later and to see it coming into fruition and still being cared for is a great buzz,’ says Larry.
And what of the future of our industry? Larry’s convinced that it is in the ideal position to promote itself as a leader in the mitigation of climate change and the re-greening of our environment.
‘Together, as a united industry, we have a unique offering. We are the ultimate feel-good industry. Not only good for people’s surrounding aesthetics, their health and wellbeing, but as a leader in helping save their environment.’
With the right team, quality stock, and a unique customer experience, alongside a strong sense of identity as to who they are and their community standing, we have no doubt
Petunia Circus Sky set to light up garden centres this spring and beyond
By Matt Ross
This spring will see the launch of Petunia ‘Circus Sky’, the newest addition to the Sky family of vegetative petunias, supplied by Ball Australia and grown by Piggy Back Farm Nursery.
‘Circus Sky’ is tipped to be a best seller at garden centres this year and every label sold will see a percentage go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), meaning the more sales, the larger the donation.
Having viewed ‘Circus Sky’ at Ball Australia’s impressive Trials Week in 2021, the Piggy Back Farm Nursery team is making it their hero line this year. They’re extremely excited to take the plant to retailers in spring and anticipate it being one of their bestsellers ever.
‘Circus Sky has fantastic growing habits. We’re putting lots of energy into it, we’ve committed to growing it in large volumes and allocated a lot of space in the nursery. There’s a lot of
enthusiasm from our retail customers and rightly so, it’s a standout plant,’ enthused Shaun Koster, partner at Piggy Back Farm Nursery.
And there’s an extra personal incentive for Piggy Back Farm Nursery to have success with ‘Circus Sky’. It’s one of a number of new products being released this spring in support of NBCF’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2022 which begins on Saturday 1st October 2022.
Piggy Back Farm Nursery is a close-knit family business that
has been impacted by breast cancer. ‘My grandmother has survived three bouts of breast cancer. Knowing that a percentage of the plant sales is going to a cause that has impacted our family, and many others, so significantly is extra motivation for us to get behind ‘Circus Sky’ and see it succeed,’ explains Shaun.
‘However, we wouldn’t be putting so much energy into growing the plant in such large volumes unless it had outstanding growing habits. It’s a semi upright petunia, neat, tidy, and compact, with good internodal gaps. It’s really wellrounded and even growing.
‘Circus Sky’ flowers at a really good size and is perfect for growing in a 140mm pot or a hanging basket. As they continue to grow out, they still look stunning and don’t get too big and leafy.
‘I’ve visited a number of our retail customers and explained the project with NBCF and the excellence of the plant. They’re all right behind it and enthusiastic to give ‘Circus Sky’ prominent
positioning and promotion in their stores.’
Ball Australia has been supporting NBCF for 11 years now with similar plant promotions. With 20 cents from every label sold donated to the NBCF, Ball Australia has raised nearly $130,000 during that time.
‘Any assistance to improve breast cancer research and survival rates is enormous. As a business we see this as a significant contribution to give back and bring a focus to the program through the avenue of plants,’ explained Kate Grant, Marketing Manager at Ball Australia.
Along with Petunia ‘Circus Sky’, Petunia ‘Pink Diamond’, Petunia ‘Bees Knees’, Calibrachoa ‘Starjump Hot Pink’, and Petchoa ‘Supercal Sunray Pink’ are the other new products being released this spring in conjunction with the NBCF fundraising initiative.
Ball Australia’s fundraising efforts are certainly appreciated at National Breast Cancer Foundation.
‘We are really grateful for Ball Australia’s support. The loyalty from this partnership is a testament to both parties and their commitment to reaching zero deaths from breast cancer,’ said Peter Allwood, Chief
How you can support National Breast Cancer Foundation
The simplest way to support NBCF is to donate – every dollar counts, and the money raised goes towards game-changing breast cancer research. Since 1994, NBCF has invested $190 million into 575 world-class research projects. In that time, the five-year survival rate has increased from 76% to 91.5%. With your help, we can change the stats to improve breast cancer outcomes.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia with over 20, 000 people diagnosed each year and 9 people losing their lives to the disease every day. The only way to stop deaths from breast cancer is by funding research to improve our understanding of how breast cancer originates, grows and spreads so that we can stop it in its tracks. The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) are on a mission to end deaths from breast cancer.
Find out more at nbcf.org.au
Plant profile: Petunia ‘Circus Sky’
Petunia ‘Circus Sky’ is sure to be the main attraction in your garden this summer! This novel new variety produces a long-lasting display of bright pink blooms, each splashed and starred with dazzling white. Every flower is utterly unique, with patterns never seen before. This gently semi-trailing petunia will cascade over the sides of baskets, containers and window boxes. Boasting good vigour and superb weather tolerance, you can rely on ‘Circus Sky’ to create a show-stopping feature that will last from spring to autumn.
Height: 30cm
Width: 80cm
Tree and Shrub Growers visit Mt Evelyn Garden Centre
On Tuesday, 18 October, some 90 T&SG members and friends visited Mt Evelyn Garden Centre where they were hosted by owners Barry and Rebecca Humphris and the garden centre’s leader Steven Touzel.
The event was oversubscribed a week out, such was the desire by members to get out again. This also reflected the high regard in which the garden centre is held by the industry. Accordingly, NGIV strongly encourages members to book early to avoid disappointment of missing out
Tree & Shrub Growers’ chair and MC, Heath McKenzie welcome everyone to Mt Evelyn Garden Centre and the October Tree & Shrub Growers meeting on a beautiful sunny afternoon.
Everyone in attendance commented on how stunning the garden centre looked, full of stock, colour and vibrancy. The centre is celebrating 50 years of providing customers with products to create beautiful living spaces and it has evolved into a modern garden lovers’ destination, filled with inspiration.
The exciting changes, transforming a basic shed into an
impressive retail space with its simple, natural and rustic feel, were there for all to see. It was generally agreed it’s a vibrant nursery that offers locals, as well as shoppers from distant suburbs, ample choice in plants, giftware and essential gardening needs.
Dinner was held nearby at the York On Lilydale, with members giving the tab a workout after a rookie error left attendees a little dry at Mount Evelyn!
We were joined on the night by Bridget Vallence MP, State Member for Evelyn, Shadow Minister for Industry, Shadow Minister for Manufacturing and Shadow Minister for Innovation, Digital Economy & Medical Research. She officially welcomed everyone to Mt Evelyn before releasing one of the Coalition’s election policies over dinner which she believes would benefit growers.
MC Heath started the evening session off with an interesting Q&A with Barry and Steven, with the following observation recorded:
How’s the business travelling and what do you see as the opportunities for retailers?
Steven – While the big box chains are our competitors, we provide better customer service, applying honesty, advice and really a mini consultancy, thus providing a clear point of difference.
You added in a Tram Café – not without its challenges. How’s that going?
Barry – it’ll be a lot better when the liquor licence comes through! By way of a back story, I saw on the news they were selling trams through a tender process for about $1k and thought it would be cool to own one. After chatting with Rebecca, I lodged a bid and the rest is history.
Barry, you’re a regular overseas traveller always looking for the cutting edge; what do you see as some future changes in the Australian market?
Technology remains a key – Australian growers are 40 years behind Europe. A simple camera at the end of a production line assessing quality and size exists in Europe. I can’t recall seeing one in an Australian nursery.
Covid hit businesses hard; how did you adjust?
Steven – really, given there were no rules to follow, we just winged it. Overall, it ended up being positive as all customers wanted was stock to make their our homes better. But finding that stock was a real challenge.
Then Bridget Vallence MP highlighted the Coalition’s manufacturing fund and explained that, if elected at the November poll, this potential fund would be available to nurseries
CEO Craig Taberner responded to Ms Vallence’s comments on behalf of industry and provided an update to members on the current NGIV-related activities, including sharing the news of NGIV being the recipients of a $1.9M State Government grant through the Jobs Victoria Fund – Priority Workforce Projects to help our member businesses find staff and tackle the current workforce challenges.
John Van der horst, current president of Garden Centres of Australia, said a few words to conclude the evening.
Thanks to Barry and Rebecca Humphris, Steven Touzel and the whole team from Mt Evelyn Garden Centre and Humphris Nursery for hosting an outstanding evening.
Celebrating 100 years of Industry: Life Members’ Luncheon
NGIV Life Members met during the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show for their Annual Luncheon to acknowledge the rich history of Victorian horticulture extending over 100 years. The occasion was both a celebration for the Members and an update of past and future projects.
Paul Boland, President of the NGIV Board, praised the longevity and success of the industry as a whole.He discussed the success of the Horticulture Showcase 2019 at Parliament House, which ran from March 18-22. NGIV secured the prominent location of Queen’s Hall, which Members have to pass through to access to the two parliamentary chambers. The Showcase promoted the connection between horticulture and healthy Victorian communities, the environment and the economy.
During the five days at Parliament House, NGIV engaged with the Premier, Deputy Premier, Leader and Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Attorney General, Minister for Health and the Agriculture Minister.
Concluding the Life Members’ luncheon, Paul introduced two representatives from Mirvac, Chris Bracher and Andy Cartlege.
NGIV has recently exchanged letters of understanding with Mirvac expressing the intent to formalise a partnership with regard to Mirvac’s master-planned community Smiths Lane in Clyde North.
NGIV will develop this partnership into a detailed project and create a formal agreement. NGIV and Mirvac have mutually consistent aspirations and want to create Australia’s healthiest suburb, supported by research & development and with the desire to further explore a theme of resilience to climatic extremes within the urban environment.
The Nursery and Garden Industry is looking forward to the development of this partnership and the positive changes it will bring, as well as celebrating again in 2020 after what will undoubtedly prove to be another productive year.
L to R: Robert Harrison, John van der Horst, Frank Hammond and Bob Allison
L to R: Mirvac’s Chris Bracher and Andy Cartleg with Craig Taberner and Paul Boland
THE AVENUE OF ACHIEVABLE GARDENS
2019’s Avenue of Achievable Gardens, sponsored by Biofilta, Ecoliv, The Cape, Sustainable Landscape Company and Australian Growing Solutions, offered 12 students and educational institutions the opportunity to showcase their design skills and horticultural knowledge.
The gardens again proved to one of the most popular destinations for visitors to the show, with attendees loving the variety and the ability of interact with the designers. The students competed for an overall score and the top prize, The Award of Excellence, as well as Best Use of Plants and The Creative Space Award. It was a great learning experience for them, allowing them to transition from concept design and project coordination to the construction of a show garden.
Swinburne Institute of Technology, Chisholm Institute, Holmesglen Institute and Melbourne Polytechnic students prepared and constructed their garden designs. Each garden represented the average balcony or small courtyard garden of five metres wide by three metres deep with a total budget of $8,000 and with at least 75 per cent of the garden ‘soft’ landscaping.
Jessica Villani, Rainforest Nest (Swinburne University of Technology)
Jason Donnelly, Redivivus Materia (Melbourne Polytechnic)
Rachael Nardella, Where the Seeds are Sown (Swinburne University of Technology)
Katherine Westle, Gone Bushesque (Holmesglen)
Shaun Hayes, Shaun Taggert, Jacob Banks, DanielClarke,ZachMurphyandThomasDrew, Modern Pop (Chisholm Institute of TAFE)
Joshua Brammar, Josh Hurst, Adam Caarels, Alby Perry and Nick Dunn, Tapestry of Texture (Chisholm Institute of TAFE)
Alex Koskiniotis, Cascade (Holmesglen)
Kristen Mahler, The Yoga Sanctuary (Swinburne University of Technology)
David Joseph, Native Fibonacci (Melbourne Polytechnic)
Riley Cooper and Angus Houghton, Gallery to Garden (Swinburne University of Technology)
Melissa Bell, Colour My World (Holmesglen)
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
REDIVIVUS MATERIA
DESIGN:Jason Donnelly
>> Melbourne Polytechnic
BEST USE OF PLANTS
RAINFOREST NEST
DESIGN:Jessica Villani
>> Swinburne Insitute of TAFE
CREATIVE
SPACE AWARD
GONE BUSHESQUE
DESIGN: Katherine Westle
>> Holmesglen Insitute of TAFE
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
CASCADE
DESIGN:Alex Koskiniotis
>> Holmesglen Insitute of TAFE
MIFGS visitors were asked to vote on which garden they liked the best. At the close of the show, Alex Koskiniotis was presented with the “People’s Choice Award” for his design Cascade.
The Awards Ceremony and Results
The judging process involved objectively assessing each design brief, design strengths, plant selection and build quality. The judges were selected from industry professionals – horticulturists and landscape designers.
In opening the ceremony, Craig Taberner welcomed everyone and acknowledged The Avenue of Achievable Garden sponsors and judges, including Dallas and Bernard from Australian Native Plant Society who kindly helped sponsor the evening. He then called upon Glenn Fenton, Chairman of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, Brendan Condon (Biofilta) and Matt Carroll (Horticultural Media Association) to say a few words.
Glenn Fenton was enthusiastic in his comments.
‘Representing the MIFGS Board, we are very proud of what you’ve delivered and we hope it will lead to further opportunities within the horticulture sector and MIFGS. Take, for example, 2017’s Best in Show winner Phil Withers. He was a former Avenue of Achievable Gardens student.
‘Regardless of whether you take home a major prize, your destiny is in your own hands. During MIFGS 2019, you are encouraged to engage with the public, landscapers, suppliers and sponsors, as your next opportunity is just waiting to be unlocked
‘In the eyes of the industry, your teachers, family and friends, you are all winners.’
Glenn Fenton, Craig Taberner, Brendan Condon and Matt Carroll announced the award winners.
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
New members
A big welcome to our latest members, who have joined the NGIV and our growing community of horticultural businesses. We look forward to helping you build your business through a long and fruitful relationship.
ABS Horticulture (Allied)
ABS provides monthly garden maintenance year-round to domestic and commercial clients. They offer fixed-price, all-inclusive packages for complete, garden care and management.
www.abshorticulture.com.au
Botanicah Nursery (Retail)
Listed on Broadsheet as one of the best inner-city plant stores in Australia.
www.botanicah.com.au
Cazna Australia Pty Ltd (Allied)
Cazna’s specialist areas are Plant Nutrition, Plant Protection, Water Management and Growing Media.
www.cazna.com.au
Drouin West Nursery (Production/Retail)
Specialising in standard Ficus, Lilly Pilly, Olive, Kumquats and Bay Trees
Green Hip Workwear (Allied)
Green Hip provide women with work clothing that expresses their sense of worth and enhances their sense of identity.
www.greenhip.com.au
Fernland Agencies (Allied)
Fernland is a One-stop shop for all your horticultural requirements. They are a
family-owned and operated business with 45 years trading history, supplying a comprehensive range of products to the nursery, landscape and turf-care industries.
www.fernland.com.au
Indigo Specialty Products (Allied)
Privately owned business focused on the production and supply of plant protection, weed control, pest control, plant nutrition. Specialising in non-crop markets, including nursery production.
www.indigospecialty.com.au
South West Tafe (Allied)
Horticulture training: Certificate II and III in Horticulture, Certificate III in landscape Constructions, Certificate III in Parks and Gardens, Certificate III in Nursery Operations.
Sprint Horticulture Pty Ltd (Production)
Young plant suppliers in Australia of DESIGN EDGE® brand landscaping plants, Sun Kisses brand patio plants, Flamenco Brand Hibiscus, Tea Time brand Hydrangea, plus a range of new flowering Begonia and indoor plants. Exporters and export agents representing the interests of breeders in foreign markets.
www.sprinthorticulture.com
Sproutwell Greenhouses (Allied)
Sproutwell sell and distribute Greenhouses Australia wide.
www.sproutwellgreenhouses.com.au
The Pot Dealer (Allied/Retail)
Melbourne based wholesaler/retailer of garden ware and homewares. Boasts a large selection of indoor and outdoor pots, stands and accessories.
www.thepotdealer.com.au
Urban Tree Growers (Production)
Urban Tree Growers, a family-owned advanced tree nursery in Ripplebrook, has been proudly growing premium trees for 23 years. Specialising in deciduous varieties, our container sizes range from 400mm to 150L, featuring in-ground stock grown in root control bags. Committed to excellence, they supply trees to award-winning developments, councils, and nurseries. At Urban Tree Growers, they genuinely commit to fostering tree appreciation in our community.
www.urbantreegrowers.com.au
Vessel Traders (Allied)
With a focus on practical and stylish living, they have gathered understated and beautiful objects to complement any space. A home decor and giftware range that is carefully curated focusing on selections from many talented Australian makers and designers.
www.blissgardengiftware.com.au
Vale Frank Hammond
Frank Hammond, NGIV Life Member and long-time Trade Day Market Manager, passed away peacefully this year, aged 89 years. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication and profound contributions to the Victorian horticultural community.
Frank is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Beverley, their daughters Fiona and Jhodie, son-in-law Brian Goy, and grandsons Harrison Goy, Louis McGowan, Fraser Goy, and Charlie McGowan.
Frank came into the horticulture industry via Bev’s father, Stan Linton, who owned a production nursery and retail outlet in Dandenong, which Frank and Bev managed for four years from 1961–1965.
With the birth of Frank and Bev’s first child, Frank established Glenvale Drive-in Nursery in Glen Waverley, together with Bill Boucher. At this time, Frank also branched out into landscaping to supplement the nursery’s income.
The landscaping contracting business that Frank would go on to begin flourished during the home building boom in the late 1960s. And it was during this time that Frank and Bev purchased eight hectares of land in Narre Warren, where they began Warren Park Nurseries in the early 1970s.
In 1975, with a growing demand for native plants in the new suburb of Endeavour Hills, Frank and Bev established Endeavour Gardens Nursery, catering to the needs of large estate developers.
And so, throughout the 1970s, Frank and Bev operated three successful businesses: Warren Park Nurseries, Endeavour Gardens, and Frank’s landscaping contracting business. By 1980, Warren Park Nurseries had moved to Narre Warren
East, by which time Frank and Bev had developed a close interest in the industry that would continue through the coming decades.
Throughout his career, Frank has played a pivotal role in Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria, holding various positions, including multiple terms on the Board and serving as the former chairman of the Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria committee. Many will remember Frank for the role he played in Trade Day, serving as Market Manager from 1988 to 2004.
In recognition of his dedicated service to the Victorian nursery and garden industry, Frank was bestowed the honour of NGIV Life Membership.
Frank Hammond's unwavering dedication and contributions have left a lasting mark on the Victorian horticultural community. With his passing, we have lost a man who contributed immeasurably to the association and to the growth and success of the industry he loved so dearly.
On behalf of NGIV staff, Board and members, we extend our condolences to Frank’s family and friends and all who knew him.
Green roofs can cool cities and save energy: modelling
By UNSW Sydney
New research shows rooftop greenery coverage can help cool down a major city while reducing energy demand.
Extensive greenery coverage on building rooftops could significantly reduce temperatures at the city scale and decrease energy costs, according to a new study.
The research, led by Indira Adilkhanova and Professor Geun Young Yun from Kyung Hee University and co-authored by UNSW Sydney Scientia Professor Mattheos (Mat) Santamouris, found that green roofs could cool South Korea’s capital city by around 1°C during summer and slash the energy demand associated with cooling by almost 8 per cent under maximum coverage.
The study, published in Nature Cities, is the first to analyse the transformative effect of green roofs on urban-scale energy consumption and climate conditions and could provide a template for modelling their potential in other cities worldwide.
“Previously, we have only looked at the energy impact of green roofs for singular buildings, but now this is the first study to evaluate the real climatic and energy impacts of green roofs at the city scale,” says Prof. Santamouris, the Anita Lawrence Chair in High-Performance Architecture at UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture. “Our findings demonstrate the tremendous potential of green roofs to substantially decrease the peak temperature of a city and increase energy savings.”
Prof. Santamouris specialises in developing heat mitigation technologies and strategies to cool cities affected by urban overheating. Seoul, South Korea, is one such city where climate change and rapid urbanisation impact the magnitude of
overheating issues, increasing energy consumption needs and adversely affecting health.
“One of the major problems in the built environment worldwide is severe urban overheating,” says Prof. Santamouris. “And as our cities heat up, thermal discomfort and heat-related illness and death also rise.”
Green roofs are a promising strategy for mitigating urban heat and energy consumption. With the ability to be installed on new buildings and retrofitted, they’re a scalable nature-based solution to address the challenges of urban overheating.
Impact of green roofs at the city-scale
For the study, the research team ran large-scale cooling climatic and building energy simulations under three greenery coverage scenarios to evaluate the potential of green roofs to lower the temperature and cooling needs of Seoul during the hottest summer month, August. They specifically focused on nonirrigated extensive green roofs – a type of lightweight green roof with large-scale implementation potential and less maintenance costs.
The modelling found that the higher the coverage of green roof systems, the more significant the decreases in temperatures and energy demand. When 90 per cent of the buildings were covered with green roofs, the city’s air temperature and surface temperature decreased by up to 0.54°C and 2.17 °C, respectively. Meanwhile, building energy use dropped by approximately 7.7 per cent (0.64 kWh/m2).
“Green roofs help cool temperatures by facilitating evaporation through plant transpiration, which cools the surrounding air and reduces the need for mechanical cooling systems (air conditioning), lowering the overall energy demand,” Prof. Santamouris says. “Additionally, the layer of soil and vegetation on green roofs provides insulation, reducing heat transfer into buildings and further lowering energy costs.”
Current green roof coverage in Seoul is modest but is expected to expand to between 30 and 60 per cent based on local policies in the next few decades. But Prof. Santamouris says coverage of 90 per cent – the uppermost potential of green roof concentration – could be achieved with the right incentives.
“Green roofs are one of the more expensive heat mitigation technologies with initial capital costs and ongoing maintenance, so it’s not always suitable,” says Prof. Santamouris.
“But for cities and businesses in developed countries that can afford it, green roofs are an important social contribution that policymakers can create the conditions to encourage widespread adoption.”
Prof. Santamouris says the efficacy of green roofs is impacted by meteorological conditions that must be considered in the design and implementation. More detailed analysis is also needed to fully reflect the annual cooling and energysaving
potential of green roof systems over the long term.
“The performance of green roofs is very much affected by several parameters, mainly humidity, precipitation, solar radiation, and temperature,” says Prof. Santamouris. “But green roofs also have important climatic benefits as well as many other important benefits, such as absorbing rainwater, increasing biodiversity and improving the aesthetic quality of the city.”
Prof. Santamouris warns failing to implement urban heat mitigation strategies like green roofs will have severe consequences. On the current trajectory, night temperatures in cities could increase by up to 5°C by 2050. Many people, even those in developed countries, may struggle to afford the costs of electricity for cooling, and heat-related illnesses and deaths will rise significantly.
“There is an urgent need to implement a combination of heat mitigation techniques and technologies in our cities to decrease urban temperatures,” says Prof. Santamouris. “If we do not, the cost in the coming decades will be catastrophic, not just for the economy, but on quality of life, particularly for lowincome populations who will suffer the most.”
