PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Simon Gomme

President, NGIV

As 2020 draws to a close, I reflect on a year that has shown our industry at its best. I’ve seen businesses adapt quickly in challenging circumstances. I’ve witnessed a collective sense of optimism and a recognition that this year has fuelled the public’s enthusiasm for gardening. Business owners have supported and valued their employees, and in turn, been rewarded with professionalism and dedication. And as an industry we have done the right thing, maintaining our reputation as a responsible and professional sector.

And we have finished the year on a high.

NGIV’s Trade Day returned, an event that has taken years to build into what it is today, the biggest and best horticultural trade market in Australia. Your presence is what creates the atmosphere and camaraderie, that makes it such a wonderful day.

The Australian Horticultural Trials Week, a major event in Australia’s horticultural calendar, took place earlier this month. It’s always exciting to see what Australia’s top propagators and growers have been working on, and to network with industry colleagues, customers and suppliers from all over Australia.

Our retail members finally got to open their doors and welcome, old and new, customers back to their sites. I’m delighted they are finally able to experience the extraordinary public demand for plantlife and make up for lost time.

Talks with event organisers at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show are ongoing and some exciting proposals are being shared. I’m hopeful the 2021 Show will make an impressive return.

I would like to thank my fellow directors for their continued support and commitment in a year where they’ve been called upon to make some big decisions. We have a board with expertise and insight that spans the horticultural industry, and their input, professionalism and competency has been invaluable.

After completing two two-year terms as a director at NGIV, I’d like to thank James Wall for his considerable input. James often brings an alternative viewpoint that I value immensely, and I hope to welcome him back onto the board one day.

The NGIV team, led by CEO Craig Taberner, have provided an outstanding service to our members in difficult circumstances. I thank Craig for his leadership and composure to navigate NGIV through this dififcult moment.

I look towards 2021 knowing we can capitalise on the growth gardening is experiencing. I’d like to thank you all for your continued support of NGIV; together we are stronger.

Simon Gomme

President, NGIV Powerplants Australia