Awards Retrospective

from Earthstyle Spring Summer 2020

Create a perfectly lit outdoor space this summer | Gardens at Night

Awards - a retrospective look over the years

MEGAN FLOWER | LVML

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.

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.

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!

**WHO REMEMBERS WALLS AND WALLS OF ENTRY PHOTOS?**

**STEPPING UP TO LARGE HOTELS IN 2007 - SOFITEL**

The FASHION

It was 1991. Let's just say that like landscaping trends, fashion trends change....

**25TH ANNIVERSARY AT RIPPONLEA | 1991 1998**

And every year, across every decade, it seems that the definition of Black Tie is never quite understood. From acid wash jeans in the 80’s to plain old denim in 2018 (and whatever shirt was on the floor), some people just don’t get it.

The TRENDS

Let's take a stroll down 'History Lane'.... segmental paving, dry stonework, in-situ concrete, minimalist designs, lush plantings and an abundance of Iceberg Roses …the Awards have reflected trends in landscaping and gardening across the decades.

**THAT'S NOT A ROCK.... THAT'S A ROCK!**

**RUST AND ORANGE TONES WERE BIG IN 2008**

The AWARDS

Everyone wants one, but not everyone can have one.

The prestige of winning an Award not only boosts your business capacity but looks pretty good in the office and makes for some great photos on the night.

(With thanks to LUMP for many years of provisioning LV with our designer trophies)

The SPONSORS

Arguably the most important people without whose support these fabulous nights just wouldn’t happen. From annual Partners through to those who specifically support the Awards, to every business who has provided financial support or products in kind, our deepest gratitude and thanks once again. The JUDGES

The JUDGES

Judging is a serious business and not too many people get to see behind the scenes. So even though there are only a few images to share, there is a small army of people to thank for their contribution over the years to making our Awards program so successful.

To all the Judges – you know who you are - in addition to the thanks you received in the year you helped, take some more! We couldn’t have done it without you.

And an extra special thanks to our Head Judges who assist with the coordination of this mammoth task, wrangling up to 35 judges per year, collating results and ensuring the integrity of the program.

Over the years this task has been capably carried out by Peter Curson, Stewart Detez, Don Thompson, Steve Taylor and Anthony Scott.

The MC's, GUESTS & ENTERTAINERS

MC's have included John Patrick, Steve Moneghetti, Tim Shaw the Salesman, Sam Kekovich, and the lovely Max Walker who so generously let anyone who wanted to, try on his baggie green.

We laughed ourselves silly with Lawrence Mooney and were stunned just a year later at how badly Lehmo tanked. That's showbiz!

A number of Members have taken the mic for their 15 minutes of fame too, such as Bruce Winstanley, and many a President has stepped into the MC role like John Van der Linde circa 1991.

According to the record books, to entertain guests on arrival or throughout the night, there have been string quartets, DJ's, bands and even ‘Crazy Peter the Magician’ (danggit for missing that one!)

The sheer FUN of it all!

What more can we say?! It's just a really good night and much work is being done behind the scenes to ensure that our Awards Program will be delivered in 2021.

We can’t wait for you to be a part of it, celebrating and acknowledging the achievements of individuals, and of the industry!