retrospective MEGAN FLOWER | LVML
Awards - a retrospective look over the years In the emerging pandemic, it was agreed by the Board at the March 2020 meeting that COVID restrictions would hinder this year’s Awards program and our members hard work and achievements couldn't be given the celebration they rightly deserve. On-site judging is also a unique point of difference compared with other industry awards, so with uncertainty surrounding our judges’ ability to enter and physically inspect properties, it was felt the integrity of the Awards program would be compromised and this was not an option the Board could accept. As such, the difficult decision was made not to proceed with the 2020 LVML Victorian Industry Awards.
E S | S p r i n g / S u m m er 2020
Usually, this edition of Earthstyle would feature the Awards in all their glory – the winners, the commendations, and of course the celebration. Instead, we now bring you a retrospective of the Awards throughout the decades! So sit back and enjoy the ride as we step back in time and look at some of the highlights, and possibly lowlights, of the Victorian Landscape Awards. The Awards started in the late 80’s as a result of some Members seeing that other states held these programs. A letter to the then-President, Max Thomas, from John Van de Linde and others outlined the benefits that could be generated from the publicity – essentially a platform to promote the industry and its professionalism, as well as promotion of the individual contractors. Max of course said yes, and the rest is history.
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The VENUES From the lofty heights of Argenti’s Receptions in Balwyn North and the Elizabethan Lodge in Box Hill to the Forum, the National Gallery, Crown Palladium, Hyatt, Sofitel and the MCEC, we’ve seen the Awards hosted at a variety of venues across Melbourne. The 25th Anniversary of the Association was celebrated at Ripponlea and the 50th at Pullman on the Park. In the early years it was about what funds were available and how many people might come. Nothing much has changed in that regard! It is still a detailed spreadsheet that underpins decisions: income vs expenditure and what can be done to deliver the best possible event. Sophistication and technology have been far more prevalent in recent years with larger attendances and thankfully we have been able to move on from wall banners, balloons and pull up screens!
AN APPROPRIATE BRICK WALL BACKGROUND FOR THE SPONSOR
