Celebrating Excellence: A Night

of Recognition at Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria's Annual Horticultural Industry Awards Night

The atmosphere was charged with excitement as NGIV hosted its highly anticipated Annual Horticultural Industry Awards Night. Held at the prestigious Zinc at Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, the event brought the industry together to celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and businesses.

Guests were welcomed with drinks on arrival, setting the tone for an evening of celebration. Gideon Cox, MC for the evening, took the stage to extend a warm welcome to all attendees, both new and familiar faces. The event provided an opportunity to recognise and appreciate esteemed guests, including Glenn Fenton, President of Greenlife Industry Australia, and Megan Flower, CEO of Landscaping Victoria. A tribute was also paid to life members John van der Horst, Peter Wilkins, and Paul Boland, as well as honorary members Marcus Gale (IMG) and Leigh Siebler for their invaluable contributions to the industry.

The heart of the evening was dedicated to recognising and honouring exemplary individuals and businesses that have set new standards in the horticultural industry. The room buzzed with excitement as the first award, the Horticulture Student of the Year, was presented. Jacob Chizik from Speciality Trees and Swinburne University was named the deserving winner, with the award presented by Suzie Shearer, founder of award sponsor Coolabah Turf.

Next, the Young Horticulture Leader of the Year Award showcased the industry’s bright and promising future. Olumuyiwa Akintola Elliott from Garden City Plastics impressed the judging panel with his adaptability, professionalism, and dedication to sustainability throughout his career.

Environmental stewardship took centre stage as the Commitment to Environmental Stewardship Award was presented to Speciality Trees. The company’s dedication to innovation, technology, and environmental education continues to set an inspiring example for the industry.

The final prestigious honour of the night, the NGIV President’s Distinguished Service Award, was given to Roger Boyle. Roger’s almost five decades of exceptional service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the horticultural industry have made him a continual inspiration and a worthy recipient of this award.

The Awards Night not only celebrated achievements but also provided an opportunity for industry professionals to connect and network. The photobooth, sponsored by Cohort Nursery, and interactive bingo game added an element of fun and camaraderie to the event, encouraging guests to mingle and laugh together.

As the night drew to a close, NGIV CEO Craig Taberner expressed his gratitude to all attendees, partners, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the event. The Awards Night not only celebrated excellence but also served as a reminder of the strong sense of community and shared passion that underpins the horticultural industry. It was a fantastic celebration of the industry’s achievements and a testament to the dedication and commitment of its members.

Through recognising high-achieving members, as well as those businesses setting exceptional standards, NGIV moves towards further developing our Victorian horticultural industry as a leader across the nation.