Welcome to the final edition of Groundswell for 2024. As we prepare to close out another successful year, we reflect on the many milestones our industry has achieved and look forward to what lies ahead. We hope this issue provides a chance to reflect on the successes of the year before setting our sights on 2025.
One of the most anticipated events in Australia’s horticultural calendar, 2024 Australian Horticultural Trials Week, takes place this month. From 3–6 December, NGIV, along with leading breeders, growers, and allied businesses, will come together for an exciting week of innovation and networking.
Presented by The Garden Gurus, this year’s Trials Week will highlight the latest advancements in container and bedding plants, indoor and outdoor green life, and allied products. With exhibitors including Anthony Tesselaar Plants, Ball, Fleming’s Nurseries, Haars Nursery, and more, attendees can expect a diverse and dynamic showcase. Allied exhibitors such as Garden City Plastics, ICL, and Syngenta will also be on hand to share their latest offerings.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, looking to create new connections, or simply want to explore upcoming trends, Trials Week offers an unparalleled platform for industry professionals from Australia and beyond.
In November, we gathered for our 120th Annual General Meeting, hosted in conjunction with the
Tree and Shrub Growers of Victoria networking event. This year's AGM was held at two iconic venues: Carawah Nursery and Established Tree Transplanters.
During the meeting, we acknowledged the dedication and contributions of Ryan Cotter and Matthew Mills, two departing Board Directors whose service has been invaluable to our association.
With their departures, we were pleased to formally announce the new Board of Directors. Suzie Shearer (Coolabah Turf) and Michael Bednarz (Powerplants) have been elected for a three-year term, while Ian Firth (Warners Nurseries) has been appointed Vice President for a two-year term.
It’s a pleasure to welcome fresh perspectives and expertise to the Board. The knowledge and insight our new Directors bring will further strengthen NGIV and, in turn, benefit our entire industry.
The AGM concluded with a networking dinner, offering a fantastic opportunity to connect with
fellow members and reflect on the year’s achievements. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the evening.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to invite you to an event that is always hotly anticipated, the NGIV Golf Day Classic, to be held next year on Friday 14 February at Yering Meadows Golf Course. Renowned for its world-class course and exceptional facilities, Yering Meadows will offer a picturesque backdrop for a day of networking and friendly (or not-so-friendly) competition. Whether you are an experienced golfer or simply wish to engage with peers in a relaxed environment, we look forward to welcoming you to this exciting event.
We’ve been thrilled to launch a brand-new initiative in 2024: the Plant of the Year. This accolade, awarded for the first time in 2025, celebrates outstanding plant varieties, sparks innovation, and highlights the creativity and expertise within our industry.
At the time of printing, judging for the 2025 award has wrapped up, and we’re preparing to reveal the winner at our inaugural Summer Soirée in early December 2024. Alongside the overall winner, we’ll also announce highly commended plants and category winners. Stay tuned for updates as we make our announcements soon.
Finally, the Victorian Schools Garden Program has enjoyed another fantastic year, with a record number of entries across both the Awards and Grants categories. This overwhelming response highlights the importance of gardening in schools and the benefits that are recognised by teachers and education staff. We’ll have all the winners in the February edition of Groundswell
As we bring 2024 to a close, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our members for their unwavering support, commitment, and passion for horticulture. It’s been an incredible year of growth and achievement, and none of it would have been possible without the dedication of our vibrant community From the invaluable insights shared at our networking events to the collaborative spirit displayed at our major industry gatherings, your contributions have strengthened NGIV. Whether you’ve participated as a Trade Day stand holder, exhibitor, volunteer, spokesperson, advocate, or in any other capacity, your efforts have not gone unnoticed. It’s this sense of unity and shared purpose that drives us forward, and we are grateful for the trust you place in NGIV to represent your interests. We can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in 2025.
We wish you a joyful and restful holiday season and look forward to achieving even greater things together in the new year.
Carl Soderlund President, NGIV Botanix Plant Supply
This August, NGIV hosted its fifth (yes, fifth!) Annual Parliamentary Horticulture Showcase in Queen’s Hall, Victorian Parliament House. This event highlighted the diversity and significance of the industry and its crucial contributions to Victoria’s economy, environment, and communities.
Last year’s Showcase was outstanding, but in my view, 2024’s was our best ever. With multiple touchpoints and a garden design that created an immersive experience in nature, it offered countless opportunities for meaningful discussion and engagement with the state’s decision makers. This year’s garden, designed by Madeleine Scott-McKenzie of Holyman Gardens and Andy Sargood, featured a captivating display of Australian native plants, trees, and edibles, providing a tranquil space for conversation. Carefully curated and designed to reflect the beauty and diversity of Australian green life, the garden served as the event’s focal point.
The team from Powerplants created and showcased an exceptional model greenhouse, which was meticulously designed to highlight innovations in horticultural technology. Complimenting the greenhouse was a video loop that ran continuously, offering a glimpse into the daily operations of a working production nursery. This visual element gave MPs a real sense of the efficiency and scale of modern horticultural practices, and with Powerplants’ virtual reality headset, they were able to step into an immersive tour of a nursery without leaving the event space. This engaging element provided a memorable, tech-forward experience that brought the reality of modern horticulture to life in an innovative way.
The storyboards placed around Queen’s Hall played a key role in engaging attendees. Featuring clear calls to action and direct
links to the latest research and reports, these displays initiated meaningful conversations, with information that was easy to access and understand, encouraging deeper dialogue around the industry’s pressing issues and opportunities. Alongside them, the two green walls – lush and visually appealing – offered prime opportunities for photo-taking and contributed to the Showcase’s aesthetic while providing a backdrop for conversation.
Students from both primary and secondary schools were once again a welcome addition, adding an educational element to the event. A key highlight was the alignment of students with local MPs, reinforcing the connection between the next generation of horticulturalists and the leaders shaping their future. Additionally, the collaboration with Footscray High School, where the Premier herself propagated seed material in June, was a significant point of engagement and provided a unique photo opportunity that symbolised the intersection of education, politics, and horticulture.
Adding another layer of interest, the involvement of Agriculture Victoria was particularly notable. The introduction of beneficial bugs and pests into the discussion offered attendees a chance to learn more about biological control and the sustainable practices used to manage plant health. This hands-on demonstration highlighted the importance of integrated pest management in horticulture and showcased the innovative methods used to protect crops.
Furthermore, the participation of representatives from the Barengi Gadjin Land Council added a rich cultural dimension. This collaboration not only enriched the Showcase but also emphasised the broader societal and environmental impact of the horticultural industry.
Our official opening and launch on the Tuesday was well received, with the Agriculture Minister, the Hon. Ros Spence MP providing some brief remarks, with a response provided by the Leader of the Nationals the Hon. Peter Walsh MP. Although informal, it was a great way to kick off the week, with the Minister and Peter then joined by NGIV President Carl Soderlund, and industry representatives Millie Ross and Graham Ross to officially open the exhibition by cutting a pothos vine.
For Horticulture Appreciation Day, Sammy J delivered and played a pivotal role in engaging the audience with his quick wit and humour, effortlessly captivating attendees. His professionalism shone throughout the event, and he went above and beyond by staying afterwards to chat with guests and pose for photos. The panel discussion held on Wednesday was another highlight, featuring renowned garden designer and Better Homes and Gardens TV presenter Charlie Albone, alongside Coolabah Turf founder Suzie Shearer. Their combined expertise provided rich insights into the horticultural industry. Both were incredibly generous with their time, and their passion for horticulture was evident.
Our policy priorities brochure also garnered positive feedback from MPs, effectively conveying our key objectives. In addition, flyers promoting the Horticulture Centre of Excellence Feasilibility Study, the Greening the Garden State report, and case studies on the ‘Grow Your Future’ and ‘Branch Out’ initiatives were well received. These materials not only informed but also sparked interest and discussions around the future of horticulture, sustainability, and career opportunities within the industry.
We had horticulture experts from NGIV member businesses on hand throughout the week to share their insights and
engage with decision-makers about the impact of our state’s industry, emphasising the vital role their businesses play (and offering some growing advice along the way!). We extend our thanks to all members and partners who contributed, whether as industry spokespeople, suppliers, or in other capacities. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Our Policy Priorities
NGIV’s policy priorities focus on addressing key challenges facing the horticultural industry and driving future growth through strategic initiatives. Our policy priorities focused on:
i) Workforce Development (Attraction, Retention, and Training)
The horticultural sector plays a critical role in Victoria’s economy, environment, and food supply chain but faces obstacles like workforce shortages, skill gaps, and the need for innovation. To address these issues, NGIV is advocating for the development of a Horticultural Centre of Excellence (HCoE) in Victoria, serving as a hub for education, innovation, and collaboration. This Centre would enhance training, research, and industry unity, while promoting sustainable plant production and landscape design. NGIV also seeks government support for school-based programs and initiatives like ‘Branch Out’, to inspire young people to pursue careers in horticulture.
ii) Commitment to Greening Victoria
NGIV proposes a “Roadmap for a Greener Victoria”, emphasising the importance of urban greening to combat climate challenges like urban heat and biodiversity loss. By integrating green spaces into urban development, Victoria can create cooler, more resilient communities. NGIV calls on the government to endorse and implement the recommendations in the roadmap as part of the Plan Victoria strategy, ensuring sustainable urban development that benefits both people and the environment.
iii) Horticultural Industry Resilience
To strengthen the industry's ability to cope with climate change, NGIV recommends the creation of a resilience fund. This fund would provide grants for businesses to invest in disaster planning, emissions reduction, and sustainable resource use, ensuring the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of Victoria’s horticultural sector.
iv) Funding for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS)
Recognised globally as one of the top garden shows, MIFGS needs ongoing financial investment to expand its reach and enhance visitor experiences. NGIV seeks $1M+ in funding to market the show, ensuring it continues to boost Victoria’s reputation as a major events capital while showcasing horticultural excellence.
Engaging leaders and strengthening connections
Premier Jacinta Allan stopped by for a chat with the NGIV team, while Opposition Leader John Pesutto, along with numerous Members of Parliament engaged with the showcase, underlining their commitment to Victorian horticulture. With our conservative estimates, this year was our best year for engagement, with over 85% of all Victorian Members of Parliament visiting.
And the feedback we received from them has been overwhelmingly positive. The garden design, with its immersive walk-through layout, was a common talking point, with numerous photos being taken and widely shared on social media. The Powerplants display also received praise for its innovation and contribution to the showcase's success. Additionally, NGIV’s connection with Indigenous nurseries was noted as a positive and important element of the event.
The event generated strong media coverage, with social media engagement from MPs, and Parliament House. The showcase was also featured on the Parliament House website’s ‘latest news’ section. Parliament staff were highly complimentary of the display and expressed their desire for NGIV to return, offering support for a future spring event. Many MPs shared that this is their favourite display each year and eagerly anticipate its return.
On the policy front, there was significant interest in NGIV’s Roadmap for a Greener Victoria, with many MPs keen to understand more about the Centre of Excellence. Several MPs expressed interest in participating in tours of member facilities or future NGIV events. Overall, the feedback highlighted the event’s success in promoting key industry priorities and strengthening relationships.
Collaborating for a remarkable showcase
As the peak body for Victoria’s horticultural industry, NGIV proudly represents businesses of all sizes, from small nurseries to multinational enterprises. With the sector employing over 24,100 people across the state, we continue to remind MPs of our commitment to promoting excellence among our members, both in the marketplace and through advocacy.
Once again, we thank everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s Horticulture Showcase. We’re grateful to our members for delivering plants and engaging with Parliamentarians throughout the week, with a special mention to Sevron staff for their seamless bump-in and bump-out support, and to Botanix for coordinating plant delivery and pick-up. Thanks also to our exceptional MC Sammy J and guest speakers Charlie Albone, Suzie Shearer, Graham Ross, and Millie Ross. The students from Berwick Lodge Primary, The Patch Primary, and Footscray High added an extra layer of engagement. The Powerplants mini greenhouse, video loop, and VR experience, along with Agriculture Victoria’s bugs and pest display, were fantastic attractions. Finally, our deep appreciation goes to the First Nations people who supported and enriched this year’s Showcase. Your collective efforts made this event truly memorable.
We were thrilled with the bipartisan support and engagement throughout the week, and we look forward to continuing many productive conversations in the coming months. NGIV’s vision remains focused on fostering a united, growing, and sustainable industry, strengthened by support from all political parties.
Welcoming new NGIV Industry Partners in 2024
Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria is excited to welcome some new Industry Partners who have recently joined us and who bring a wealth of expertise, innovation, and passion to the horticulture industry. These businesses, like all NGIV’s Industry Partners, are seen as leaders in the industry and contribute to the growth and sustainability of our sector.
Fernland (Silver Partner)
Future1st (Silver Partner)
Fernland is a family-owned and operated business with over 46 years of experience, serving as a comprehensive source for the nursery, turf-care, landscape, and protected cropping industries. Their growth has allowed them to establish global partnerships and become exclusive distributors for numerous international brands. Fernland’s diverse clientele includes wholesale and retail nurseries, golf clubs, sporting facilities, landscapers, educational institutions, and government entities –both within Australia and across the globe.
Future1st is dedicated to providing traineeship programs in the horticulture industry, offering a unique pathway for young talent to grow and thrive. They specialise in connecting passionate individuals with nurseries through the completion of the Certificate III in Horticulture program.
Alfresco Gardenware (Bronze Partner)
Alfresco Gardenware is a Melbourne-based wholesale supplier specialising in high-quality garden décor and accessories, proudly serving businesses across Australia. With a diverse range of stylish and functional products, they cater to garden centres, landscapers, and retailers looking to elevate outdoor spaces. From planters and pots to outdoor furniture and decorative accents, Alfresco provides the finishing touches that transform gardens into beautiful, inviting spaces.
Copperhead Wines (Bronze Partner)
Situated in the heart of St Huberts Rd in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Copperhead Wines stands as a testament to Hans and Anna Orth’s deep-rooted passion for horticulture. With over 30 years of experience and a partnership spanning 40 years, they initially ventured into horticulture with a wholesale plant nursery. The allure of grape growing and their shared love for wine led them to establish a vineyard as part of their business, where Copperhead Wines now thrives.
Speciality Trees (Bronze Partner)
Speciality Trees is a specialist in the environmentally sustainable production of premium quality advanced landscaping trees and screens. For more than 46 years, Speciality Trees has been a leader in the production and supply of advanced, containerised landscape trees for local government, the landscaping industry, and retailers. They grow a broad range of native, deciduous, and evergreen trees in semi-advanced to super-advanced sizes up to five metres in height, including a range of specimen trees and shrub varieties suitable for screening.
As an industry we are collectively indebted to our Industry Partners and the work they do; that’s why we would ask you to seek out opportunities to show them your support.
We’d like to extend our enormous gratitude to all of our partners; welcoming the new and thanking all those that have renewed this year. We couldn’t do what we do without your help.
The media’s role in growing our industry
By Trevor Cochrane
It’s a year of reflection for us at The Garden Gurus as we celebrate 23 years on Channel 9 and over 800 episodes produced. In that time, we’ve told more than 6,400 stories about innovation in garden care and new plant introductions emerging from the garden industry.
The program is a unique platform, providing commercial exposure for brands through a third-party expert presenter. It airs weekly on Channel 9 during autumn and spring and is broadcast internationally in 86 countries across seven languages, including on ROKU Television in North America, which boasts over 60 million subscribers. Our website engages 126,000 unique visitors weekly and has recorded over 80 million fact sheet and video downloads since its launch. Of course, broadcast alone isn’t everything these days; social media has enabled The Garden Gurus to cultivate an organic following of 150,000+ people over the past decade. These followers engage in a two-way conversation with the program, which grows in popularity daily. Every Friday, more than 14,000 garden enthusiasts join our live sessions, where their gardening issues are addressed in real time. Media is rapidly evolving, offering exciting new ways to connect with content consumers.
We’re nearing the completion of Series 37 for Channel 9 and, during Australian Horticultural Trials Week in December, we will film another 37 stories about new plant releases – improved selections of some of our favourites and enhanced genetics for inclusion in Series 38. This will be the 23rd year filmed nationally, set to air in autumn 2025.
The name The Garden Gurus has its roots in a long history within the industry, from growing to retailing. It reflects an understanding that a catalogue description or a 30-second TV commercial could never convey the years of hard work behind the plants and products that make home gardening more successful and accessible. The name was carefully chosen to acknowledge the role of a teacher in India, where gurus impart knowledge to help people better understand their environment and themselves.
Our industry is brimming with great stories, but telling them in a concise, entertaining way is not something every grower, landscaper, or garden supply company can do. Series One began with 18 sponsors, and by Series 37, 15 of those original sponsors were still partnering with us to share their stories with our 500,000 viewers* across Australia each week.
At times, comparisons have been drawn between The Garden Gurus and Gardening Australia. However, the distinctions are clear. The Garden Gurus serves as an industry interface with consumers, while Gardening Australia is a more traditional, down-to-earth garden show, delivered via our national broadcaster. Gardening Australia faces limitations in promoting garden products and plant breeding innovations under brand names, whereas The Garden Gurus requires industry support and funding to produce content. Despite their different methodologies and strategies, both programs cater to the public’s insatiable demand for gardening content, ultimately benefiting the future of our industry. Together, they share Australia’s positive stories about plants, gardens, food production, and sustainable backyard success.
It’s been an incredible journey: 23 years of filming across Australia in every state and territory, as well as overseas in destinations like Europe, the UK, Ireland, Canada, and New Zealand, to name just a few.
The exciting part is that there has never been a better time to share the stories behind our amazing industry. Investments in new plant releases and environmentally friendly innovations for garden care are accelerating. We are thrilled to be planning Series 38 and 39 for 2025, continuing to tell the stories of the people who make this industry vital to our lifestyles and future
The world faces critical challenges, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating climate change –especially in heavily urbanised areas where heat sinks affect residents’ health – and addressing food production as global population pressures ease. Waste reduction, recycling organic materials, and pollution management are more important than ever. At the heart of these solutions are the people who love and work in the garden industry, who strive to improve the beauty and sustainability of our environment. The Garden Gurus remains an essential part of Channel 9’s line up in Australia and we look forward to continuing to tell our viewer base the stories behind the people that strive to grow a better world. *aggregated total audiences according to OZTAM research.
Uniformity through automation: Australian Growing Solutions delivers consistency for growers
By James Nicklen and Steve Bath
Australian Growing Solutions (AGS) has a clear mission: to support nurseries, landscapers, and councils with a growing media that’s as consistent as it is high-quality. Their latest leap in automation capabilities now makes AGS’s media uniformity an industry benchmark, providing a reliable foundation for growers whose success hinges on predictability and quality.
AGS understands that growers’ needs are as varied as the plants they nurture. The team collaborates closely with each customer to tailor growing media suited to their unique operations. Whether a grower focuses on retail-ready plants, hardy landscape varieties, or durable trees for council projects, AGS tailors the media to fit their needs – taking into account factors such as plant varieties, pot sizes, watering regimes, and the specifics of their equipment, to name a few.
One of the biggest challenges growers face is achieving and maintaining uniformity in their products, and AGS has responded
by engineering their processes to deliver consistency at every stage. From careful ingredient selection and rigorous QA testing to the newly automated blending process, every part of AGS’s production line is designed with precision in mind.
AGS has over 50 years of expertise, evolving from its roots as Debco, a producer of organic manures, to an industry trailblazer Known for its superior potting mix introduced in the 1980s, AGS has continued to innovate with significant investments in technology. During their evolution into a Klasmann-Deilmann GmbH (KD) company, and with federal government backing, AGS installed Australia’s first wood fibre line in 2020 – reducing reliance on traditional peat and imported materials – as well as a state-of-the-art Continuous Blending Line.
This Continuous Blending Line, designed in collaboration with KD engineers, is now the heart of AGS’s consistency drive. Replacing their traditional batch blending process, the line automates blending for a consistent, high-quality mix. This transformative technology, paired with proprietary software and advanced quality controls, positions AGS to meet evolving industry demands with unmatched precision and reliability.
Proprietary software developed in Europe controls and monitors accurate dosing.
Unlike traditional methods that rely on front end loaders and operators, which can introduce variation depending on the individual behind the controls, AGS’s system is fully automated Ingredients are dosed with precision and recorded every two seconds via advanced SQL and Power BI platforms, ensuring there’s no room for deviation. The entire blend is made straight into the delivery truck, so what’s mixed that day goes straight to the customer, reducing handling and ensuring peak freshness and uniformity.
The result? A growing medium that’s uniform from every square centimetre to every cubic metre, across every single delivery. This automation and attention to detail mean growers can depend on AGS’s growing media to perform consistently, allowing them to focus on growing their own plants to the same standards.
AGS’s commitment to reliability doesn’t end with production. They offer next-day delivery for orders placed before midday, and their QA lab reviews every single load that is made, ensuring their high standards are maintained – in excess of the minimum Australian Standard. This adds a further layer of convenience and dependability for growers. AGS holds certifications for AS4454: Compost, AS3743: Potting Mix, and is also an EcoHort Certified, NIASA Accredited Growing Media Supplier.
Through their automated processes, Australian Growing Solutions is helping to raise the bar in uniformity – one delivery at a time – allowing growers to achieve the consistency they need for a thriving, dependable business. Contact the team on 1800 709 588 to arrange a visit for you and your growers to see it first hand.
Celebrating local growth, employment, and sustainability at All Green Nursery & Garden Supplies
By Samuel Fragapane
At All Green Nursery & Garden Supplies, we are proud to be a leader of local growth, employment, and sustainability in the Wyndham area. Recently, our commitment to these core values was recognised at the 2024 Wyndham Business Awards, where we received several prestigious accolades, including Business of the Year, Medium/Large Business of the Year, and the Excellence in Sustainability Award. These honours reflect our dedication to both our community and our mission to provide “Opportunity for All”.
Locally grown opportunities
Our local operations go beyond providing premium plants and landscaping materials. They represent our ongoing commitment to create a resilient ecosystem and sustainable community connections. At our Locally Grown Nursery, we collaborate with local businesses, landscapers, council and engage with schools to create a thriving community-based business. By repurposing organic waste into high-quality landscaping soils and utilising locally sourced materials, we not only reduce our environmental footprint but also support local industries.
Our innovative partnership with Port Phillip Prison exemplifies our dedication to social sustainability. Through this program, inmates learn horticultural skills by cultivating plants for use in local landscaping projects. This initiative provides valuable experience for participants while delivering quality products to our customers – proving that sustainability can go hand in hand with community impact.
This localised approach also provides unique advantages: by reducing the reliance on external suppliers and minimising
transportation costs, we offer landscapers affordable plant options without sacrificing quality. Our team has the flexibility to contract grow projects, meaning that with adequate lead time, we can cultivate specific plants to meet project requirements, eliminating the need to source from multiple nurseries and ensuring that landscapers receive exactly what they need, on time and within budget.
Commitment to local employment
As a family-owned business with nearly 100 employees, All Green Nursery & Garden Supplies is dedicated to fostering local talent and creating meaningful job opportunities within our community. We actively recruit from the local area, filling roles that range from junior maintenance positions to skilled horticultural experts. By investing in the growth and success of our team, we contribute to a thriving local economy while empowering individuals to reach their potential.
Our Junior Maintenance Program offers young people a unique entry into the workforce. This initiative provides local youth with invaluable exposure to the job application process
and hands-on experience that prepares them for future employment. Designed to nurture talent from an early age, the program equips students with essential skills and confidence through interviews, practical work tasks, and mentorship. This not only helps them succeed in their future careers but also strengthens our team with fresh perspectives and dedicated young workers. Our goal is to transition these young individuals into meaningful roles within our organisation, creating a pathway for long-term growth and success.
Beyond entry-level opportunities, we’re committed to ongoing development through our Future Leaders Program This initiative offers comprehensive on-the-job training and a structured pathway to leadership roles within the company. Focused on internal promotion and professional growth, the program is part of our Leadership Succession Planning, ensuring that every employee’s career aspirations are supported. For those who may not seek leadership, we provide numerous opportunities for skill development, cross-functional training, and career progression across the business. This approach creates a supportive and inclusive workplace, allowing our employees to flourish in roles that match their strengths and aspirations.
Through collaborations with local organisations, such as our partnership with Wyndham City Council and Gordan TAFE, we have created opportunities that extend beyond our business. In this partnership, we welcome participants who earn a Certificate in Horticulture and gain hands-on experience in our nursery, building a foundation for their future careers. Employees have grown from trainees to valuable team members, taking
on part-time and full-time responsibilities and enriching our family business with their skills and passion
At All Green, we believe in “Opportunity for All” and our commitment to local employment is more than filling positions – it’s about building a community that thrives together. Through training, development, and mentorship, we empower our employees to grow personally and professionally, contributing to a culture of excellence and service. By investing in our people, we not only strengthen our business but also build a legacy of opportunity, sustainability, and community impact that will resonate for years to come.
Excellence in sustainability
All Green’s approach to sustainability earned us the Excellence in Sustainability Award, a testament to our enduring commitment to eco-friendly practices. Our sustainability initiatives include our soil production process, which transforms raw materials into landscaping soils that meet industry standards while minimising waste. This dedication to sustainable practices enables us to offer environmentally friendly solutions to the community, ensuring that our operations contribute to a greener, more sustainable Wyndham.
The recognition we’ve received through the 2024 Wyndham Business Awards affirms our commitment to a flourishing local economy and a sustainable future. By maintaining our focus on local employment, supporting community-based initiatives, and creating sustainable practices, we continue to grow as a business that Wyndham can be proud of – now and for years to come.
Strengthening the team: JD Propagation welcomes new managers
By James Nicklen
JD Propagation has infused fresh energy and expertise into its ranks with the recent appointments of Matt Curtis as National Sales Manager and Andy Cowen as Operations Manager. Since Matt and Andy joined in May, the company has embraced new ideas and reinforced its robust management practices, thanks to a team already rich in industry experience.
These changes are shaping JD Propagation’s future by combining diverse skills, extensive experience, and mutual trust within the team. Adding to the collective wisdom of owners Jen and Dan Patience, and General Manager Bruce Wallace, Matt and Andy bring fresh perspectives that have further strengthened JD’s foundations. “It just gives us more horsepower,” Jen says. “If you put together Matt, Andy, Bruce, Dan, and myself, with all our years in the nursery industry, it’s huge.”
As a family-oriented business, Matt was a natural fit for the role and has seamlessly integrated into the team. An industry veteran known for building strong professional relationships, Matt contributes not only sales expertise but also a shared commitment to JD’s values. “We know how Matt’s operated over the years. We know his background and what type of person he is. We’ve always had a family feel to our business,” Jen says. And with Matt having worked with Jen and Dan in various capacities over the years, Jen says, “It feels a bit like getting the family back together.”
Andy’s impact has been equally transformative. As Operations Manager, he brings the operational leadership Jen and Dan have long sought. Andy’s hands-on approach recalls JD’s early days, setting a new standard for training, productivity, and team cohesion. “Matt, Bruce, and Andy treat the business like it was theirs,” Jen says. “And they act like it. You can see that
with what Andy’s doing out in the nursery. He’s creating the same culture that we had when Dan and I were out there.”
This strengthened team and newly organised structure have allowed Dan and Jen to take on different roles within the business. Dan, now focusing on developing his growing team, is thrilled to be back in a hands-on role, nurturing the plants that are the heart of JD’s operations. Meanwhile, Jen has stepped into an accounts-focused role, overseeing the company’s finances while continuing to guide the ship strategically.
Looking ahead, JD Propagation aims to seize new opportunities, refine operations, increase efficiency, and align long-term growth with client needs. This month, they will once again be a key player in Australian Horticultural Trials Week. Set to feature an expanded lineup of breeders and showcase a broader selection of genetics, this year’s exhibition – Bee Happy – will put pollinator plants front and centre. The JD team has been hard at work, preparing to display an extensive variety of plants, grouped by variety for ease of comparison. With genetics from major breeders such as Dummen Orange, Danziger, Syngenta, Shoneveld, Hartwig Bull, Greenfuse and Royal Van Zanten, and with many other Trials Week exhibitors exhibiting at their site, JD Propagation’s showcase is shaping up to be their best yet.
With fresh perspectives, a solidified management team, and an unwavering commitment to quality and collaboration, JD Propagation is well-positioned to keep innovating and thriving
L–R: Andy Cowen, Jen Patience, Bruce Wallace, Matt Curtis and Dan Patience.
New Member Profile: Cazna Australia Pty Ltd
For thirty years, Cazna Australia has introduced innovative products and technology to the nursery and retail garden centre markets of Victoria.
Their mission is to continuously improve outcomes for potting mix manufacturers, nurseries and their customers.
Previously known as Hortex Australia, Cazna specialises in plant nutrition, plant protection, water management, and growing media, offering new alternatives and solutions through the supply chain to end with growers and their customers.
What makes your business unique?
Cazna have over 40 years engagement in the nursery, turf and landscape sectors with excellent agronomic and technical support to growers. We are dedicated suppliers to potting mix companies and growers throughout Australia and New Zealand.
What is your stock range?
Specialist products for the one of the most important but hardly ever seen areas of nursery production; the root zone. Our product range includes fertilisers, water crystals, peat, coir, zeolites, wood fibre/peat blends and much more.
New products introduced include:
» Triabon: a unique quick and slow-release fertiliser that sticks to the top of the potting mix. Ideal for top dressing and as a starter for most plant types.
» Crystal Rain: new generation low-rate water crystals. For extending retail shelf life and getting better mileage out of applied water and fertiliser.
» European Peat: Nine different grades for incorporation into growing media.
» Cazna Coir peat and chips: Nine grades available from orchid, tree and shrub grades to fine propagation grades.
» In field and bench nutrient test equipment for a range of essential minerals, EC and ph.
» Nano technology.
» Zeolites, granular wetting agents, MU based starter fertilisers.
We were previously a major sponsor for the Tree & Shrub Growers gardens at MIFGS. We were also engaged at NGIV’s Trade Day for many years and have conducted field and site visits for sales/technical support to many NGIV members.
How do you market yourselves to your customers?
We are a relationship-based, family-owned company dealing with, at times, two or three generations at many nurseries and companies over the years.
We promote through referrals, trade advertising but mostly face-to-face meetings.
Do you have any long-term plans for your business?
To continue to be relevant to our customer base and support the nursery industry. To continue to seek our young committed talent to provide a career and springboard into our industry. We are currently looking for new team members in Victoria for sales/technical roles.
Tell us a little bit about your core team and skills. Many years of training, looking and learning, gives agronomic experience in a wide variety of Hort/ Ag sectors that brings a lot of support to a wide range of plant types. Our international network and overseas work, links us to a lot of innovation, new technology and product/solutions for growers and potting mix manufacturers.
How can NGIV members learn more about your products and services?
Contact Rob Reynolds on 0415 825 558 or robert@cazna.com.au
Why did you decide to become an NGIV member?
We have been members at state and national level over the decades and we continue to want to support current and future generations in our industry to create a sustainable financial, technical, career and ecological sound industry.
Garden Inspiration Group (GIG) is Growing
Racha Horne is NGIV’s new Member Services Officer
Garden Inspiration Group is delighted to announce that the Group now has eight members. Scotsburn Nurseries join GIG as a new member with Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) joining as a guest member.
They join current GIG members: Biemond Nurseries, Bombora Pots, Grow Better, Plant Growers Australia, Takasho, Trenton Cottage, Ausflora Pacific.
Our annual function in March 2025 will be amazing and even better than previous years. Chloe Thomson will talk and present on:
Helping Garden Centres Thrive in the Future!
We all know that times are often challenging. Come to the Best GIG in Town function on 3 March 2025 and listen to some excellent solutions. Chloe Thomson will entertain you with visuals, words and ideas.
Chloe is a young, talented multi-media person, a horticulturist and garden coach. See her on: www.beantheredugthat.com
GIG presenters will show you new releases and innovations.
Invitations will be posted to Independent Garden Centres in January 2025 but pop the date in your calendar now: 3 March 2025 at The Manningham, Bulleen.
The nucleus of GIG 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.
Inquiries to Leigh Siebler: E: leigh.siebler@bigpond.com
Editor’s note: In the October edition of Groundswell, this announcement was misrepresented as an update from Garden Centres of Australia (GCA). NGIV apologises to Garden Inspirations Group (GIG) for this error.
NGIV is excited to welcome Racha Horne as our new Member Services Officer.
In this role, Racha will oversee the administration and coordination of member benefits and services, playing a crucial part in enhancing the experience of our members. Her work will support the attraction and retention of members, ensuring that NGIV continues to provide exceptional value to all.
Racha’s background in Human Resources, combined with her experience as Project Lead for NGIV’s Grow Your Future Program, makes her ideally suited to this role. Her expertise positions her perfectly to assist both current and prospective members with any queries or support they may need.
If you haven’t had the chance to meet Rachna yet, it won’t be long before you hear from her as she continues to engage in supportive and meaningful ways with our members
2025 TRADE DAY DATES
Tuesday January 7
Tuesday February 4
Tuesday March 4 GALA
Tuesday April 1
Tuesday May 6
Tuesday June 3 GALA
Tuesday July 1
Tuesday August 5
Tuesday September 2 GALA
Tuesday October 7
Tuesday October 28
Tuesday December 2 GALA
Trade Day Report
By Nan Cleven
The first of our October Trade Days was post AFL Grand Final, with much early morning hustle and bustle to ‘kick off’ an extra busy day. Many were still adjusting to Daylight Savings time but enjoying the noticeable new growth, fragrance and colours of Spring.
For our second Trade Day for October, as we all looked forward to the ‘unofficial’ long weekend for the annual Cup Day break, the busy Spring season continuing on for all at KCC Park. Buyers were lined up at the barriers – it was difficult to hold them back to the 7am start time – then, they were ‘off and running’ in our pre-Cup market.
Punters were keen to place their bets on a winner – special thanks to Norwood for setting us up for the NGIV Cup Sweep with banner and charts.
Silver Industry Partner Fernland were recognised as one of our sponsors of the day. The 7.00am ‘sounding of the bell’ by an enthusiastic Patrick Gorman –with Nick Hutchinson watching on as buyers began their dash for stock to the many popular trade stands.
showcasing their latest products and unique novelty items and garden hardware; buyers showing much interest in their sought-after range, including an amused Andrew Jones from Poyntons.
« Mid-morning – we then found Olivia Jones from Poyntons –after a busy morning, trolley all loaded up with stunning hanging baskets of colour from the Plantopia stand.
« Bronze Industry Partner – Alfresco Gardenware – Julia and Cassie
Silver Industry Partner Gallagher sounding the bell to get them started. Greg Young was quite bemused by the whole episode of this monthly ritual, standing back as the buyers filed in to be ‘first past the post’.
Halloween for those who are keen – many signs of support about the market; none more so than the folk at Top Ten Trees – we can always count on Kim to dress up for the occasion. Well done to Kim, Tim Duyvestyn and an ‘old friend’ for creating many photo opportunities during the morning.
As we now begin the build up to the Festive season, ‘live’ Christmas trees are in demand – we met up with the ever-happy Bryce Lee on the Monbulk Rose, Tree & Shrub Farm stand, featuring their special offer on ‘Early cheer’ conifers.
Also in the limelight as our Coffee Cart Sponsor for the month, we acknowledged Silver Industry Partner, Chandler/Future 1st Group Training Organisation team, with Ryan, Anne-Marie and Michaela, who were busy networking amongst buyers and members at market.
And just in time for the spring racing, roses were at their peak – none more so than on the Hannemann Rose stand, with displays of stunning colour and complementing fragrance a highlight for buyers.
2024 NGIV Footy Tipping competition 1st Prize – Congratulations to:
“The Black Flash” on 153, winner of 4 Tickets to the MCC Members Reserve at the MCG for any game in Season 2025. A fabulous prize, very generously donated by Garden City Plastics. Elliott and Greg vying for honours with the ball!
LEAN LEADERS 2025
Lean Leaders is a leadership development program ideally suited to current and emerging leaders. Combining LEAN and continuous improvement with modern leadership principles to drive efficiency in your business. We use simple and effective tools to reduce waste, with measurable return on investment.
WHY ENROL IN LEAN LEADERS?
Develop your leadership capabilities
Learn key concepts to plan and take action to improve your business
The minimum return a business generally gets from having a leader in the program is $40k* - that’s a huge 10 x ROI on the programcost!
Hort Innovation scholarships have been funded by Hort Innovation using the nursery research and development levy and funds from the Australian Government. For more information on the fund and strategic levy investment visit horticulture.com.au
RETAIL STATE OF PLAY
GCA Young Retailers Collective
Lisa has coordinated five Zoom sessions now and GCA had one physical meeting at the wonderful Acorn Nursery. Response has been excellent, and many ideas are coming forward. One was that many staff do not know much about GCA, so Lisa is now producing ‘The GCA Times’ each week that is being printed out and placed on the staff lunchroom notice board. The aim is to keep staff interested, informed and motivated. The meeting at Acorn was preceded by a tour of five garden centres to get ideas and network with fellow members. Networking is a major benefit for everyone.
One Tree Per Child (OTPC) has already seen Five Garden Centres join GCA and we look forward to more. GCA will relaunch OTPC in Autumn 2025 with new ideas and photos. Around 15,000 Activity Kits have been purchased by members and given out to customers. Social Media exposure has been huge.
Siebler Garden Centres of Australia
www.gardenreleaf.com.au
The happy gathering at Acorn Nursery.
Interview with NextGen Tanisha Marshall
Warners Nurseries
Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at Warners Nurseries in Narre Warren, and my role is Despatch Hand.
How long have you worked there and how has your role progressed in that time?
I have worked at Warners for just under 7 amazing months now. My role has progressed tremendously. At first, it was very daunting coming into a workplace with colleagues who have decades of experience, as well as Warners having a sophisticated structure and over 100 years of practice. But with such great examples and a welcoming attitude, I am now very confident in my role and still learning new plants every day.
What do you enjoy most about working in horticulture?
I enjoy the community and the drive to share knowledge from my workmates the most. Not to mention, how much I still learn every day. There is more to running a nursery than most people would think—plants are incredibly interesting.
Who has inspired you on your journey?
Most of my inspiration comes from my colleague Eloyse Edwards, whose knowledge and passion for plants are motivational to say the least! She was my entry into horticulture, first as my manager at a different nursery, and now as my colleague at Warners. I’d also like to mention Rebecca Neeson, my despatch team leader. She brings a “no question is a bad question” attitude to the space and is contagiously optimistic. Everyone needs a Bec.
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day for me involves reviewing the orders assigned to me and starting on the first one. I then grab all the stock labels I need and head out into the nursery to pick. Once I’m back in the despatch shed, I clean the stock and pack it onto trolleys for
our truck drivers to deliver. On busy days, we all work together to help each other out, depending on the order’s urgency.
Why should more young people choose horticulture as a career?
Horticulture is a great career choice for young people because it offers knowledge about nature, soil, climate, and an understanding of how everything is interconnected. It also provides opportunities to learn about sustainable practices that help protect the earth. Interacting with the environment every day improves both physical and mental health. Additionally, designing gardens, growing plants, and discovering the various paths available in the horticulture industry make it an impressive career choice!
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve received on your journey?
The best advice I’ve received is to be patient and ask as many questions as possible. Additionally, it’s important to be as hands-on as you can. I’ve found this to be incredibly helpful, as there is so much to learn, and personally, I find that physically working with plants speeds up the learning process.
Are you studying/have you studied a horticultural course?
I am currently a first-year apprentice, working towards a Certificate III in Nursery Operations at Warners Nurseries.
Tell us a bit about you; what you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love to read and write. During quiet nights, I listen to music and watch my green tree frogs. It may be predictable, but what I enjoy most is tending to my jungle of indoor plants at home. Now that I can confidently identify most native plants, going for walks has become so much more enjoyable. Though, my friends tend to get stopped every minute of our walks so I can tell them about the plants we pass by. I also like to make little bouquets with the plants I see during my walks.
