Our front cover: It’s Showtime – Petunia Circus Sky – Supporting the NBCF. www.ballaustralia.com
Executive update
Simon Gomme President, NGIV
Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV
Welcome to the October edition of Groundswell.
The NGIV Board and Team would like to thank all those businesses who have renewed their NGIV memberships for the 2022/23 financial year. We’re delighted with the uptake.
NGIV is committed to continuing to support our members to improve professionalism, performance and profit while advocating, promoting and educating key stakeholders on the significance of our industry. We could not do what we do without your ongoing support.
As a member you have access to many benefits Here are just a few:
» Member and industry promotion
» Ongoing industry advocacy
» Free professional and technical support
» Entry to Australia’s leading wholesale plant market
» Opportunities to participate in MIFGS
» A varied training and events calendar
» The latest horticultural news and updates
» Complimentary member wellbeing service
» Exposing children to gardening through our Schools Program (VSGP)
» Onsite visits from NGIV team members
And on the advocacy front, we are pleased with the amount of exposure being afforded to industry of late.
The “Realisation of Growth Opportunities report within the Victorian Nursery and Garden Industry” was launched on Monday 15th August by the Minister for Agriculture, the Hon Gayle Tierney, when she visited Garden City Plastics (GCP). The report revealed that NGIV’s membership base provided the Victorian economy with an estimated $2.5 billion of economic worth and employed over 24,100 people in 2020/21. Refer to page 21 for more details or go to ngiv.com.au to read the full report.
NGIV’s third Annual Parliamentary Horticulture Showcase was successfully held in Queen’s Hall, Parliament House from 30th August through to 1st September 2022. Formal presentations occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday 31st August with the Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education, the Hon Gayle Tierney, MLC officially opening the Showcase. Leader of the Nationals, Deputy Leader of the
Opposition and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Regional Victoria and Aboriginal Affairs, the Hon Peter Walsh MP responded to the Minister’s opening address.
Industry representative Michael Warner, Director of Warners Nurseries, provided a passionate plea for all Members of Parliament to further discover the size, scale and scope of our industry and the essential role it plays in growing healthier environments, communities and economies, for Victorians. You can read more about the Showcase on page 16.
There have been some exciting developments with the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS), which will lead to more opportunities for NGIV members to become involved. NGIV is delighted that leading event management company IMG has joined us as the joint owners of MIFGS. Having managed the show for nearly 30 years, IMG has a strong relationship with MIFGS. Refer to page 31 for a detailed overview.
Trade Day continues to gain momentum now that we have overcome the stop-start period endured through COVID. In September, our quarterly Trade Day Showcase ran simultaneously with the usual trading, with exhibitors displaying their latest and upcoming products to a large, engaged and captive audience.
The Australian Horticultural Trials Week is just around the corner and we are excited to have “The Garden Gurus as seen on Channel 9” as our presenting partner for the next two years Trials Week is a major event in Australia’s horticultural calendar, an opportunity to discover exciting new lines, visit some of Australia’s finest propagators and growers and enjoy networking with industry colleagues. We welcome the involvement of The Garden Gurus who deliver a television series that is dedicated to promoting innovation in the garden industry.
Finally, the 118th Annual General Meeting of Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) will be held in conjunction with a Tree & Shrub Growers event at Mansfield’s Propagation Nursery on Tuesday 22nd November 2022. We hope you can join us as we run through the year that’s been and look forward to the future
Simon Gomme President, NGIV Powerplants Australia
Craig Taberner CEO, NGIV
Australian Horticultural Trials Week presented by THE GARDEN GURUS
It’s coming up to that time of year again. For four wonderful days in December, NGIV and Australia’s top breeders and growers, are proud to present the 2022 Australian Horticultural Trials Week. This year’s Horticultural Trials Week will take place between 6-9 December and feature a mix of in person and digital experiences. Visit horticulturaltrials.com to find out more.
Presenting Partner
The Garden Gurus
The Garden Gurus and Nine Entertainment Co are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Australia’s longest running garden television series on commercial television, a series that is dedicated to promoting innovation in the garden industry.
Since launching in WA in 2002 Guru Productions have produced over 850 episodes and nearly 7000 stories about new plants, innovative products that make gardening easier or more successful and the series filmed across Australia has been seen in over 86 countries in 7 languages.
Every year the garden industry reinvests millions of dollars in research, development and breeding programs that enable consumers to have more productive and beautiful gardens. The Garden Gurus is currently playing across Channel 9 nationally on Saturday afternoons, on 9NOW, and being repeated on 9LIFE nationally with multiple broadcasts. In 2023 Channel 9 have scheduled another 2 seasons with 30 episodes focused on the autumn and spring seasons and the latest plants, products and services delivered to consumers by the garden industry.
The Garden Gurus offers the unique opportunity to have third party credible experts and skilled communicators tell your story to hundreds of thousands of Australian gardeners.
2022 Plant Exhibitors
Ball Grower Trials
Ball Australia
Ball Australia is part of a global family of breeders and researchers. We continue to partner with some of the leading plant breeders and suppliers – overseas and locally, to bring new and exciting varieties to the Australian market from all corners of the world.
Viable and innovative flowers for beautiful garden performance, new and unusual foods to grow and varieties that require minimal care with reliable results.
2022 Ball Grower Trials focuses on these key areas so home gardeners can fill their spaces with plants for health, wellbeing and to encourage pollinators.
When: 9:00am to 4:00pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December 2022
PlantFest 2022
Greenhills Propagation Nursery/ Touch of Class Plants
Whether you are a grower, retailer, or media member, we invite you to come and see the latest that Greenhills Propagation Nursery and Touch of Class Plants have to offer.
We have an array of new release plants that we are excited to show you – There is something for everyone at PlantFest!
Site visits will be via appointment only – Please register using the link provided. If you can’t attend on site, register for a virtual presentation or information booklet.
When: 8.00am to 3.00pm, Tuesday 6 to Thursday 8 December 2022
Visits by appointment only, please register here: http://www.touchofclassplants.com.au/plantfest
New Genetics Showcase Haars Nursery
The Haars Team will be showcasing an extensive range of new and innovative plant genetics which will be introduced to the Australian market during 2023/4. Haars Nursery has extensive partnerships internationally, enabling us to promote, market and distribute leading plant genetics.
Join us for a coffee, stay for lunch, enjoy our open house during Trials Week 2022.
Haars Nursery Pty Ltd is a privately owned Australian producer of flowering indoor and outdoor plants, herbs, vegetables, superfoods and landscape varieties.
At Haars Nursery we work with breeding partners who continually innovative to provide new and improved plants.
Our partners focus on breeding varieties which are heat tolerant, disease resistant and maintain good natural growth habits, reducing the requirements for any chemical applications.
Haars Nursery works with elite young plant material which has been tested and is free of virus and disease. We provide our partner growers and Australian gardeners with clean, high quality plant material.
Onsite appointments between 9:00am and 5:00pm, please book via sales@haarsnursery.com.au
Fleming’s Innovation Showcase
Fleming’s Nurseries
Fleming’s is excited to participate in NGIV Trials week for the first time. We are looking forward to sharing our most recent tree and shrub introductions. There will also be an exclusive pre-order opportunity for some of our very exciting upcoming releases.
We will be open all week and happy to have interested parties drop by. However to ensure we are best able to host you, and to manage group numbers effectively, we would appreciate you making an appointment. We also welcome those seeking a broader nursery tour, or for groups larger than 10. All visitors will need to sign in on arrival
When: 9:00am to 4:00pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December
A Kaleidoscope of Colour
JD Propagation
JD Propagation invites you to see “A Kaleidoscope of Colour” at our 2022 trials.
With genetics sourced from some of the most renowned breeders such as Dümmen Orange, Syngenta, Volmary, Outback Plants, Kiwi Flora, PAC, Greenfuse, Snowbrand, Royal Van Zanten and Danziger.
You will find that we have an extensive plant range that is second to none.
Our philosophy is simple – to listen, understand and deliver a quality product whilst exceeding a high level of service. We believe that we are only as good as the last plant that we send out and we continue to work towards improving our structure and processes to maintain a high level of consistency.
When: 8:30am to 4:30pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December
Please contact customer service to book an appointment e: customerservice@jdpropagation.com.au
A Kaleidoscope of Colour with JD Propagation
Dümmen Orange
JD Propagation has been licensed to produce Dümmen Orange genetics for the Australian market and they will have young plants available from January 2023. Dümmen Orange is a leading breeder of annuals, pot plants, perennials, cut flowers, tropicals and succulents and with JD Propagation we look forward to showing you the products available for 2023.
When: 8:30am to 4:30pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December
Please contact customer service to book an appointment, e: customerservice@jdpropagation.com.au
Majestic Variety Assortments
Majestic Young Plants
Majestic Young Plants is delighted to be hosting our first NGIV trials week after a 4 year absence.
We are excited to be opening our doors to both existing and new customers and the opportunity to interact face to face.
Our nursery in Clayton South welcomes you to view the wide assortment of young plants we have to offer in our indoor, succulent, landscape, vegetable, herb, perennial and annual ranges.
When: 9.00am to 3.00pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December 2022
Visitors to please book in advance by emailing trials@majesticselections.com.au with attendee names, company name, day of visit, party size and contact details.
2022 Allied Exhibitors
Powerplants Australia
Powerplants Australia offers a wide variety of products and service in horticultural technology, operating in all sectors of the horticulture industry including: berries, soft fruit, field vegetables, nurseries, protected cropping, cut flowers, and medicinal cannabis.
We specialise in greenhouse technology, which includes ontrolled climate solutions, fertigation and recycling systems, and labour-saving technologies. Our continual investment in global product research and development means our solutions will suit any type of condition. In addition to this, our nationwide network and dedicated team of hands-on specialists means all our customers have access to 24/7 service and spare parts.
Michael Doensen (Vic) 0400 737 783 | E: michaeld@proptec.com.au www.proptec.com.au
When: 9am to 3pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December 2022
Visitors are encouraged to book in advance by emailing michaeld@proptec.com.au with attendee names, company name, day of visit, party size and contact details.
Recycle for a Better Future Garden City Plastics
Garden City Plastics, in partnership with Norwood and Polymer Processors are collecting PP5 material to return to horticultural pots, carry trays, propagation trays and flower buckets.
When: 9am to 4pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December 2022
Starter Pots
Super Starters
At Super Starters we understand that our customers are looking for an edge and are demanding a smarter and more efficient way of working. A Starter Pot gives you the opportunity to produce a high-quality final product with a more consistent strike rate over a shorter period of time.
Our key focus is the end product and we understand that this is critical to your business. Having been on the receiving end we only send out products that we would want to propagate into ourselves
We aim to work with our customers to provide a service that is consistent, reliable, and suitable for your needs.
When: 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday 5 to Thursday 8 December
Tailoring Nutrition for Better Crops ICL
ICL’s aim is to show the differences that fertiliser application rates, product selection and potting timing can have on finished product quality and shelf life.
Please note the trial product is being grown at Plantex Nursery with the assistance of James Barr and his team under controlled conditions. James is using Ball genetics as agreed by Ball and ICL.
Contact:
Address: (Ball Australia site) 735 Westernport Hwy, Skye, VIC 3977 Ph: Roger Boyle 0418 350984 | E: roger.boyle@icl-group.com
www.icl-sf.com.au
When: 9am to 4pm, Tuesday 6 to Friday 9 December 2022
We will keep you updated of any more exhibitors in our weekly e-newsletter and the Trials Website. Visit horticulturaltrials.com to find out more about the Australian Horticultural Trials Week and what’s in store this year.
Petunia Circus Sky set to light up garden centres this spring and beyond
By Matt Ross
This spring will see the launch of Petunia ‘Circus Sky’, the newest addition to the Sky family of vegetative petunias, supplied by Ball Australia and grown by Piggy Back Farm Nursery.
‘Circus Sky’ is tipped to be a best seller at garden centres this year and every label sold will see a percentage go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), meaning the more sales, the larger the donation.
Having viewed ‘Circus Sky’ at Ball Australia’s impressive Trials Week in 2021, the Piggy Back Farm Nursery team is making it their hero line this year. They’re extremely excited to take the plant to retailers in spring and anticipate it being one of their bestsellers ever.
‘Circus Sky has fantastic growing habits. We’re putting lots of energy into it, we’ve committed to growing it in large volumes and allocated a lot of space in the nursery. There’s a lot of enthusiasm from our retail customers and rightly so, it’s a standout plant,’ enthused Shaun Koster, partner at Piggy Back Farm Nursery.
And there’s an extra personal incentive for Piggy Back Farm Nursery to have success with ‘Circus Sky’. It’s one of a number of new products being released this spring in support of NBCF’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2022 which begins on Saturday 1st October 2022.
Piggy Back Farm Nursery is a close-knit family business that has been impacted by breast cancer. ‘My grandmother has
survived three bouts of breast cancer. Knowing that a percentage of the plant sales is going to a cause that has impacted our family, and many others, so significantly is extra motivation for us to get behind ‘Circus Sky’ and see it succeed,’ explains Shaun.
‘However, we wouldn’t be putting so much energy into growing the plant in such large volumes unless it had outstanding growing habits. It’s a semi upright petunia, neat, tidy, and compact, with good internodal gaps. It’s really wellrounded and even growing.
‘Circus Sky’ flowers at a really good size and is perfect for growing in a 140mm pot or a hanging basket. As they continue to grow out, they still look stunning and don’t get too big and leafy.
‘I’ve visited a number of our retail customers and explained the project with NBCF and the excellence of the plant. They’re all right behind it and enthusiastic to give ‘Circus Sky’ prominent positioning and promotion in their stores.’
Ball Australia has been supporting NBCF for 11 years now with similar plant promotions. With 20 cents from every label sold donated to the NBCF, Ball Australia has raised nearly $130,000 during that time.
‘Any assistance to improve breast cancer research and survival rates is enormous. As a business we see this as a significant contribution to give back and bring a focus to the program through the avenue of plants,’ explained Kate Grant, Marketing Manager at Ball Australia.
Along with Petunia ‘Circus Sky’, Petunia ‘Pink Diamond’, Petunia ‘Bees Knees’, Calibrachoa ‘Starjump Hot Pink’, and Petchoa ‘Supercal Sunray Pink’ are the other new products being released this spring in conjunction with the NBCF fundraising initiative.
Ball Australia’s fundraising efforts are certainly appreciated at National Breast Cancer Foundation.
‘We are really grateful for Ball Australia’s support. The loyalty from this partnership is a testament to both parties and their commitment to reaching zero deaths from breast cancer,’ said Peter Allwood, Chief Operating Officer of NBCF.
How you can support National Breast Cancer Foundation
The simplest way to support NBCF is to donate – every dollar counts, and the money raised goes towards game-changing breast cancer research. Since 1994, NBCF has invested $190 million into 575 world-class research projects. In that time, the five-year survival rate has increased from 76% to 91.5%. With your help, we can change the stats to improve breast cancer outcomes.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia with over 20, 000 people diagnosed each year and 9 people losing their lives to the disease every day. The only way to stop deaths from breast cancer is by funding research to improve our understanding of how breast cancer originates, grows and spreads so that we can stop it in its tracks. The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) are on a mission to end deaths from breast cancer.
Find out more at nbcf.org.au
Plant profile: Petunia ‘Circus Sky’
Petunia ‘Circus Sky’ is sure to be the main attraction in your garden this summer! This novel new variety produces a long-lasting display of bright pink blooms, each splashed and starred with dazzling white. Every flower is utterly unique, with patterns never seen before. This gently semi-trailing petunia will cascade over the sides of baskets, containers and window boxes. Boasting good vigour and superb weather tolerance, you can rely on ‘Circus Sky’ to create a show-stopping feature that will last from spring to autumn.
Height: 30cm
Width: 80cm
More information
Contact Piggy Back Farm Nursery to stock Petunia Circus Sky in your garden centre. www.piggybackfarm.com.au
Contact Ball Australia to find out more about growing Petunia Circus Sky. e: orders@ballaustralia.com
Riverside Gardens: a family business delighting customers for 40 years
By Rosalie Smith
This year Riverside Gardens, Shepparton, celebrates its 40th anniversary in business. Having been a member of the NGIV from the get-go, Groundswell wanted to catch up with the owners to learn more about the nursery, the role it plays in the community, the team, and the key to its longevity and success.
The Smith family history with Riverside Gardens began back in 1982, when Moira and Bob Smith purchased the original nursery on the banks of the Broken River.
‘We loved the big claret ash trees scattered throughout which gave the nursery a real character of its own,’ said Bob.
Moira and Bob’s sons, Larry, Murray and Rodney, all joined the family business and are at the helm today, growing the business
As have so many horticultural businesses, they’ve had to navigate their way through more than their fair share of challenges – from fires and droughts to restricted trading and economic recessions.
The 1993 floods were devastating for the nursery. It was the generosity and support of their staff, customers, friends and suppliers within the industry that made the Smiths want to keep going and bring the nursery back better than ever. The floods became a catalyst for change.
In 1996, the nursery relocated to Emerald Bank, the current site. It was a gamble; without any neighbouring businesses, the new site wasn’t a customer destination. That’s all changed now, they’ve been joined by a number of other businesses and Emerald Bank has attracted more visitors than they could have imagined. The gamble has paid off!
With the relocation, the family seized the opportunity to reimagine their product offering and nursery layout, adding a mini golf course that took players through their stunning display gardens. In 2008, 2009 and 2010, they were rewarded by winning the Best Medium Garden Centre of Victoria three times in a row.
These days, while plants remain the central draw card and passion of the business, the nursery has expanded its offering into a garden centre, selling giftware, home décor, garden décor, clothing and furniture. Utilising the latest technology and an outstanding network of quality growers and specialised plant transport companies, plants are sourced from all over the eastern states rather than weekly dashes to Melbourne to try and find stock.
Riverside Gardens is very much a family business and enjoys the stability and strength that brings. Four of the core team are family members with the rest being long-term employees. They are all on the same page and working towards a common goal. Most of the team are qualified horticulturists, but their true expertise is their ability to connect with people, listening to and interpreting what they are looking for.
The business plays an integral role in the local community, outside of the usual garden centre offering of supplying quality plants, products and horticultural advice.
‘Our staff regularly speak at the various surrounding regional garden clubs. We also offer a place where friends and families come together to enjoy the outdoors, picnics, wedding ceremonies, family gatherings and fun and entertainment. We also support the community through school excursions, community events, sponsorship of sports clubs, community interest groups, and fundraisers.
‘We are more than just a garden centre. With our mini golf course, set among just over two hectares (five acres) of display gardens, we play our part in drawing visitors to the Goulburn Valley to spend time and money within the local community,’ explained Larry.
And word has certainly got out! Some of their regular customers drive as much as an hour to visit them, with their effort repaid through expert advice, outstanding stock range and an overall enjoyable day out.
Being a regional garden centre is not without its difficulties. A lack of immediate access to the supplier market and freight can mean that a busy midweek results in getting caught short of stock leading into a busy weekend, without an option to react quickly. The family has learnt to adapt to this inconvenience and are rarely caught out these days.
With decades of experience behind them, what advice would the owners give to other garden centres hoping to enjoy the same level of longevity and success?
‘Keep your eyes and ears open. You can always learn from what your peers are offering. Don’t be afraid to look outside of our industry as well.
‘Know your customers, listen to their concerns and needs. Know your product, your offering and what it is really worth –don’t undersell it. Keep adapting, embrace change and make the most of what works for you,’ says Larry.
With 40 years of NGIV membership under its belt, the management team at Riverside Gardens values the advocacy efforts of the state association and the regular industry updates that keep them informed. They encourage more retailers to consider NGIV membership and NGIV, in turn, to deliver even more for their retail members.
‘It’s such a great industry to be part of. Working in the fresh air, growing things, creating beautiful environments to live in and helping people do the same. To drive past a customer’s garden a few years later and to see it coming into fruition and still being cared for is a great buzz,’ says Larry.
And what of the future of our industry? Larry’s convinced that it is in the ideal position to promote itself as a leader in the mitigation of climate change and the re-greening of our environment.
‘Together, as a united industry, we have a unique offering. We are the ultimate feel-good industry. Not only good for people’s surrounding aesthetics, their health and wellbeing, but as a leader in helping save their environment.’
With the right team, quality stock, and a unique customer experience, alongside a strong sense of identity as to who they are and their community standing, we have no doubt that in another 40 years the team at Riverside Gardens will still be delighting the Shepparton community and their many out-of-town visitors.
NGIV Annual Horticulture Showcase: Members of parliament discover the size, scale and scope of our industry
By Craig Taberner
NGIV’s Third Annual Horticulture Showcase, held on Tuesday 30th August through to Thursday 1st September, in Queen’s Hall, Parliament House was an historic week for our industry.
Continuing on from our 2018 and 2019 events, and following a hiatus during 2020 and 2021 with the onset of Covid, this year we took our program to the next level positioning ourselves in front of representatives and decision makers for the entire sitting week, with no less than 60 Members of Parliament engaging.
NGIV’s team began the week by creating an indoor garden in just a matter of hours within Queen’s Hall, featuring display boards, interactive material for educational purposes, information describing our supply chain and our importance to the health of Victoria’s economy, environment and community. This was in preparation for the Showcase’s opening at 9.00am on Tuesday.
Throughout the week, NGIV advocated for every Member of Parliament to further discover the size, scale and scope of Victoria’s $2.5 billion horticulture industry and the essential role it plays in growing healthier environments, communities and economies for all Victorians.
A Strong Advocacy Schedule
Hopefully you had time to view, follow and share our story on social media but if not, below is a summary of the 2022 NGIV Annual Horticulture Showcase.
We established various themes for the week, with each aligning to our policy priorities and linking in with our diverse and broad remit for the horticulture sector. We had industry experts, advocates and members on hand to answer questions as they arose.
We encouraged support and investment for our Policy Priorities, which are summarised below:
1. Ensure Victoria maintains its position as Australia’s horticultural leader
Undertake a feasibility study to create a Horticulture Centre of Excellence to facilitate education and training, partnerships and collaboration, research and development and a permanent home for Victoria’s greenlife market.
2. Increase awareness and commit to improving Victoria’s green infrastructure
Foster a greater sense of awareness, appreciation and commitment to deliver improvements to our state’s natural and engineered ecological systems. Develop and deliver a state marketing campaign to promote the benefits of a greener Victoria.
3. Grow the industry’s workforce capacity
Help develop a larger, more skilled workforce to fill the diverse and rewarding careers on offer and address the negative perceptions around horticulture
4. Support Victorian horticultural educators
Invest in relevant technologies, infrastructure and teaching staff within our education and training facilities
5. Strengthen Victoria’s horticultural industry resilience
Global climate is changing, and will continue to change, in ways that will adversely impact the resilience of Victoria’s horticultural industry. To combat this, we recommend government establishes a fund to support horticultural businesses to adapt to the challenges of a warming climate.
6. Assist in the development of our domestic and international export opportunities
We had a great mix of directors, partners, members and specialist representatives from the industry available to explain why Victorian horticulture is important for a healthy community, the economy and the environment.
An Impressive List of Visitors
As Victoria’s leading horticultural industry peak body representing all businesses from small nursery operations to large multinationals and directly employing over 24,000 Victorians, we reminded MPs that we are proud of the role we play in fostering excellence for our members in the marketplace and matters of advocacy.
Not only did we spend valuable time with the Minister for Agriculture but, given the breadth of horticulture and moreover our supply chain and its influence on other portfolios that relate directly to our policy priorities, we were fortunate to engage with many representatives from the Andrews Labor Government, the Liberal-National Opposition and crossbenchers as well as key advisors, heading into the 26th November election.
Curation of a Beautiful Display Garden –the centrepiece to Queen’s Hall
NGIV welcomed significant interest in Victorian horticulture during the Showcase, with several stakeholders commenting that it was the best display ever seen in Queen’s Hall. Visitors celebrated the diversity and quality of our industry. The colours and textures of foliage and flowers came together to complement the rich colours and flower motif of the room. We celebrated the season through a combination of ornamental
Conduct further exploration and investment into unique interstate and international export opportunities through an export strategy addressing barriers to international market access, product development and intellectual property. u
u and edible plants and a mix of indigenous, native and exotic plants of different statures and purposes - revegetation, agriculture, indoors, gardens and even turf. It was a purely plant-driven design symbolic of the many homes, businesses, industries and public parks that horticulture is part of in Victoria.
The indoor plant giveaways were a major hit, attracting significant interest and, upon release of a few early on the Tuesday, it didn’t take long before word got around. By lunchtime on Wednesday, the indoor plants had all been claimed.
The edibles and coloured varieties on display in the centrepiece were also not going back to their nurseries. Thanks to the generosity of our growers, come late Thursday afternoon they too were released to the many suddenly avid gardeners within the corridors of Parliament House!
A big thank you to Jac Semmler who curated the display and the many growers who supported the activation including Warners, Biemond, Humphris, Speciality Trees, Oasis, Ecodynamics, Merrywood, Mansfield’s and Lilydale Turf.
The Formal Presentations
The formal presentations on Wednesday were outstanding and well-received by the audience. The Hon Gayle Tierney
MLC, Minister for Agriculture, Skills and Training, and Higher Education officially opened the Showcase and praised our great industry, followed by corresponding remarks from the Leader of the Nationals, the Hon Peter Walsh MP, who encouraged government investment and support for NGIV’s policy priorities and that of the Victorian horticulture sector in general.
Industry leader Michael Warner implored the government to back Victorian horticulture today, to create a legacy for the future. He made some inspiring comments stemming from his grandfather, which are still relevant today.
Below are comments from some of the speeches:
» Minister Tierney noted the depth and diversity of our industry, which was on show in Queen’s Hall and supported by her tour of Garden City Plastics only two weeks earlier. She saw great opportunity for industry as outlined in the “realisation of growth opportunities report”
» Shadow Agriculture Minister Walsh recommended that MPs take the time to read our industry report and policies and invest in the sector. He reflected on his experience at Trade Day and that ringing the bell at opening was like ringing the bell at the New York stock exchange.
Horticulture Showcase Closes for
another year – what a week it was!
On reflection, NGIV was ecstatic at how the week transpired. Many Members of Parliament reacquainted themselves with our industry, while others connected for the first time. These relationships form the building blocks for the future and recognise the ongoing advocacy work that NGIV has been doing over the past five years. The engagement during the week provided valuable time to continue the conversation about Victorian horticulture and our policy priorities.
We ‘greened’ Victoria’s Parliament House to highlight the important role that horticulture plays in ensuring Victoria remains both liveable and resilient.
We encouraged every Member of Parliament to discover the size, scale and scope of Victoria’s $2.5 billion horticulture industry and the essential role it plays in growing healthier environments, communities and economies for Victorians.
NGIV president Simon Gomme praised those who assisted during the Showcase, giving time out of their busy week to help set up Queen’s Hall and engage with MPs.
’I want to personally congratulate the team for the spectacular event that took place in Parliament over the last week. It has been an overwhelming success which is very hard to put a value on. I have no doubt that we will see the benefits of this activation for a long time to come,’ he said
Craig Taberner, NGIV’s CEO, also reflected on the week in Parliament: ‘What a week it was at Parliament House! Our presence for several days in Queen’s Hall, together with the outstanding level of engagement with MPs we achieved, was quite a coup. This places our industry at the forefront of decision makers minds as we head into the 26th November election and beyond’.
The Next Steps in Advocacy
NGIV will continue its ongoing advocacy endeavours but recognises it has a big job ahead to follow up on the opportunities that have arisen from our Third Annual Horticulture Showcase, as we pursue our key policy priorities for the benefit of NGIV members and the broader horticulture sector.
Advocacy remains one of our most important but challenging tasks; we’ve certainly taken some major steps forward over the past five years however, we still need your support.
We encourage members to engage with their local Members of Parliament, invite them to visit your local business, provide them with a copy of our policy booklet and industry report and please keep our office informed of any engagement you undertake.
While the week was a celebration of horticulture and the people that contribute to this vibrant industry, NGIV is confident that with further support and investment from our Parliamentary leaders we can make an even greater positive contribution to Victorians.
More information
NGIV’s policy priorities booklet and the industry report Realisation of Growth OpportunitiesWithin the Nursery and Garden Industry are available in hard or soft copy. Please contact the NGIV office on t: 9576 0599 to obtain a copy.
Realisation of Growth Opportunities report released
Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) welcomes the release of the “Realisation of Growth Opportunities within the Victorian Nursery and Garden Industry” report, which was launched on Monday 15th August by the Minister for Agriculture, the Hon Gayle Tierney, at Garden City Plastics (GCP) in Dandenong South.
This report is a great resource for the nursery and garden industry, and I look forward to seeing the industry respond to the insights and ensure future growth across the sector,’ she said
The Victorian Government is supporting the sector to identify opportunities for growth, including attracting workers for the future and addressing skill gaps.
The report revealed that NGIV’s membership base provided the Victorian economy with an estimated $2.5 billion of economic worth and employed more than 24,100 people in 2020/21.
It also found that 75 per cent of businesses are looking to expand their operations, reflecting a positive outlook for growth within our industry.
These facts underscore the significant contribution horticulture makes to our local economy, wellbeing and the livability of our state of Victoria and make the case for even further support to drive the highest quality in our supply chains and economic activity.
While the outlook for the sector remains strong, the report also identified priorities for ensuring future growth, including:
» attracting skilled and casual labour
» pursuit of a scoping study for a Horticulture Centre of Excellence
» strategic collaboration with targeted local government
» exploring export opportunities, and
» promotion and investment in green infrastructure solutions to help facilitate action on climate change.
NGIV was awarded $110,084 through the Labor State Government’s $15 million Food to Market Program to commission the report.
NGIV CEO Craig Taberner welcomes the release of the report.
‘The Victorian nursery and garden industry is a complex, yet important industry within the Victorian economy and the report shows that with the right investment and support we can offer even more,’ he said.
Located in Dandenong South, GCP is one of the country’s largest manufacturers of plastic pots and containers for the horticulture sector.
General Manager of Garden City Plastics Geoff Allison said ‘Garden City Plastics is passionate about creating quality, sustainable and value for money products. We are a proud partner and major contributor to Victorian horticulture and play our part to ensure it remains sustainable.’
The full report is available at ngiv.com.au.
L to R: NGIV CEO CraigTaberner, Fran Coyle – Managing Director Norwood Industries, Geoff Allison – General Manager Garden City Plastics, BenWilson – Operations Manager Garden City Plastics,The Hon. GayleTierney MP, Minister for Agriculture, LeeTarlamis MP, Simon Gomme – President NGIV
L to R: NGIV CEO CraigTaberner, LeeTarlamis MP,The Hon. Gayle Tierney MP, Minister for Agriculture and Geoff Allison, General Manager Garden City Plastics.
JD Propagation to supply Dummen Orange Genetics in Australia
By Matt Curtis
In 2009, an opportunity opened up in the industry to supply plugs to wholesalers so that demand could be met in the retail market. With Dan’s many years of growing experience and Jen’s business knowledge, they put together a plan to create a propagation nursey, JD Propagation.
From little things, big things grow.
Now, 13 years later, the business is going strong and about to move in to a new era, growing the Dummen Orange Genetics for the Australian market.
The end for Propagation Australia
After years of investigating if Propagation Australia could relocate its nursery to another site, Ron, Greg, George and the PA team announced in mid-May 2022 that they will be finishing up at the end of November 2022.
This was a very difficult decision for Propagation Australia and the team will miss the customers and breeders they have built relationships with over many years.
Ron, Greg and George have ensured there is a smooth transition with the genetics by supplying elite material to JD Propagation over recent months.
We would like to thank Ron, George, Greg and their entire PA team for their service to the horticultural industry and we wish them all the best in whatever their futures bring.
Market adjustment
With Propagation Australia and Highsun deciding to close their propagation facilities, the demand for premium quality genetics has never been higher.
Dan and Jen have always achieved best practice with everything they do in their business. Since the start in 2009 Jen and Dan have invested in building relationships with renowned breeders to ensure they are growing the world’s best genetics. This, combined with strong protocols and the right growing environment, enabled JD Propagation to produce some of the best quality plugs in Australia.
Sweetunia Suzie Storm Chrysanthemum Crystal
Savannah™ Oh so Orange
Investing in the best genetics
The addition of Dummen Orange genetics to JD Propagation’s range strengthens the wide vegetative offering in the Australian market.
Dan and Jen have invested heavily in elite tissue culture material from the Dummen Orange laboratories in Europe and from Propagation Australia’s elite house, which is a protected environment for storage of original plant material that ensures the mother stock is always virus indexed and pest- and disease-free.
Knowledge and relationships
As the nursery continues to grow, Dan and Jen decided they needed to add more experience and knowledge to their senior management team. In April 2022, they appointed Bruce Wallace as general manager. Bruce brings a wealth of skills to JD to complement those of Dan and Jen.
He has many years’ experience managing businesses including Biogro, Floriana, Yates and Repurposeit. His appointment also reunites Dan and Bruce after they worked together 16 years earlier at Floriana.
More information
Jen, Dan and Bruce would love to chat with you today about how they can build a relationship and work with you.
Contact:
Dan m: 0418 147 358
Jen m: 0410 655 569
Bruce m: 0499 046 353
Bruce Wallace, Dan and Jen Patience
Poinsettia Prestige
Calibrachoa Aloha
The schizophrenic role of costs in your business
By Jon Manning
According to the World Bank, the global economy (including Australia’s) is in for several years of above average inflation and below average growth, a phenomenon that economists call “stagflation”. There is a generation of business owners who have never had to operate in this sort of economic climate before who will need to explore different tools to manage their businesses.
In this, the first of two articles for Groundswell, I will explore the challenges associated with managing costs.
Costs play a schizophrenic role in many businesses. On the one hand, if you manage costs below the amount of revenue you earn, you’re in profitable territory. But for the many businesses who also adopt cost-plus pricing, if you can’t master the elusive skill of passing on price increases without losing customers, you’re trying to juggle the impact of costs on top-line revenue growth and a ballooning costs base.
In a second article, I will explore pricing as a stagflation management tool: why it is more important to manage value than costs, as well as how you can benefit from an understanding of behavioural economics and pricing psychology.
Pricing is always a huge challenge for businesses large and small, but for the many that don’t manage pricing strategically, the current economic climate is making pricing a much bigger headache than normal.
There are over 2 million SMEs (Small & Medium-sized Enterprises) in Australia (including NGIV members), and a large chunk of them will be using cost-plus pricing, a methodology that involves totalling up a product or service’s costs (that’s the ‘cost’ bit in “cost-plus”), adding on a desired profit margin (that’s the ‘plus’ bit) and BOOM, you have a price.
The problems with this methodology are numerous:
» calculations of costs and the mark-up can be flawed
» you can over-price in weak markets and under-price in strong markets
» you focus on historical costs while your prices are geared towards future sales, and
» the methodology ignores demand.
And if you’ve been using cost-plus pricing over the last two and a half years of the pandemic, you’ve probably spent more time managing expenses than you’ve been managing prices, revenue and profits.
The pandemic has been both a health crisis and an economic crisis and, from an economic perspective, I’ve seen three distinct phases:
1) An initial “Business Model Adaption” phase, where companies scrambled to adjust their business models to survive (eg, introducing contactless payments, delivery services, etc).
2) Then there was a secondary phase where there was pressure on businesses to start recouping some of the revenue lost during lockdowns. This started to manifest itself as ‘transitory inflation’, with many commentors expecting a period of rising prices to be short-lived.
3) But as we started turning the corner out of the pandemic in 2022, and Russia invaded Ukraine, the transitory inflation became anything but transitory. Some even called it ‘Putinflation’.
In the first “Business Model Adaption” phase of the pandemic, costs played havoc with the business of Australian SMEs, as the following data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics in March 20201 shows:
Fifty percent (50%) of Australian businesses made changes to their workforce, mainly a reduction in the hours staff work
Thirty-eight percent (38%) of businesses changed their methods of delivery.
Thirty-eight percent (38%) of Australian businesses renegotiated property rental or lease arrangements.
Twenty-nine percent (29%) of Australian businesses reported difficulty sourcing raw materials.
Twenty-four percent (24%) of Australian businesses deferred loan repayments, which were funding investments in things such as stock, materials, vehicles, and technology.
During the second phase of the pandemic prices started to rise, but the anticipation was that these price rises would only be temporary. Scarcity was in abundance as supply chains across many industries became increasingly congested and hundreds of container ships awaited berths at major shipping ports like Singapore, Shanghai, Rotterdam and Los Angeles, unable to unload or load. Growers, shippers, suppliers, wholesalers, manufacturers, retailers – everyone was affected.
But as we started to emerge from the second year of the pandemic, inflation changed from transitory to entrenched. In the June 2022 quarter, Australian inflation reached 6.1% pa, a level last reached following the introduction of the GST (see chart above, left). The driving forces of this inflation were the transportation, housing and furnishing, household equipment and services categories (see chart above, right).
On top of that has come the recent Fair Work Commission decision on 15th June 2022 to increase the national minimum wage by 5.2%, followed a couple of weeks later by an increase in the Superannuation Guarantee rate from 10% to 10.5% on 1st July 2022.
So, what should an Australian SME, possibly utilising cost-plus pricing, do in this sort of environment, other than throw their hands up in the air in despair?
Firstly, understand where your costs are rising, and where they are not rising. Are costs rising in urban markets and not regional markets, are they rising on some raw materials and not others? Understand the dynamics of your costs.
Secondly, have you got under-performing assets or locations that you could close to eliminate expenses. If you’ve moved to offering a delivery service during the “Business Model Adaption” phase mentioned above, do you still need all your
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physical, bricks-and-mortar locations? With rising fuel prices, large car-dependant locations are likely to struggle with footfall and sales. Getting these assets off the books can help lower rent, utility and financial expenses.
You may also want to re-prioritise any geographic expansion plans, favouring markets where the signs of demand and growth are strongest.
Thirdly, review your working capital (inventory plus what is owed by customers, less what is owed to suppliers). Have you got too much inventory or some obsolete or slow-moving items you should fire sale? Have you got the best terms from suppliers and are your own terms and conditions optimal? In Inflationary times, you're much better off getting cash today than customers paying you in 30, 60, or 90, days’ time.
Finally, you need to be effective with communicating price changes. Customers rarely care about your costs (more on what they do care about in the next article) but right now, in effect you have a licence to justify a price increase on the basis of rising costs, be it via an email or letter to customers or a sign on the shop window or by the cash register.
What does a best practice price change communication look like? It has six hallmarks: it’s personal, it’s transparent, it gives
advance notice, it explains responsibility, it reminds readers of value and explains why it’s unavoidable.
Getting on top of your rising costs is the first step to managing your business in times of stagflation.
In the next article, I will provide some initiatives focused on pricing management and customer psychology.
About the author
Jon Manning is the Head of Pricing at a SaaS tech company based in Melbourne, the founder of www.PricingProphets.com, a start-up mentor (at MAP, AIM, Blackbird Giants & River City Labs), a micro and behavioural economist, and the author of “Overcoming Floccinaucinihilipilification: Valuing and Monetizing Products and Services” . This book is a guide to value-based pricing for start-ups, entrepreneurs, and side-hustlers.
Jon has around 30 years’ experience in pricing strategies, pricing models, business models, monetization and the use of behavioural economics and pricing psychology.
Bio Gro expansion with acquisition of facility in Newbridge, Victoria
Van Schaik’s Bio Gro Pty Ltd (Bio Gro) has announced that it acquired an EPA licensed facility in Newbridge, Victoria, to support its ongoing growth and establishing additional organics recovery infrastructure in the State of Victoria.
Bio Gro is a family-owned business which has been providing quality products from organic resources for nearly 50 years. The process starts with the recovery of organics from a range of different industries. These materials are then refined and supplied to the horticultural, viticultural and agricultural markets in the form of quality growing media, mulches and composts which are then utilised to improve plant and soil health. They can also be tailored to customers’ specific requirements
The Newbridge site was formerly the operational base of ScatoPlus, a producer of mushroom growing compost, and is located within 30 mins of Bendigo. The acquisition incorporates a 162 hectare (400 acre) parcel of land with supporting equipment and infrastructure that will enable Bio Gro to commence operating within the 2022 calendar year.
Bio Gro Managing Director Stephen Van Schaik said:
‘We’re extremely excited by this acquisition and the opportunity for Bio Gro to assist the State ofVictoria in meeting its objective of creating additional organics recovery infrastructure and equally, for Bio Gro, creating additional manufacturing capacity to meet our customer demand.
‘Our range of products is a key component in sustainably improving soil and plant health and we’re looking forward to the Newbridge operation being another new chapter in our growth story.
‘We are committed and looking forward to the investment in the region in terms of job creation, support services and local businesses as we look to continue our growth in the coming years.’
More information
For more information about Bio Gro, please visit www.biogro.com.au
New members
A big welcome to our latest members, who have joined the NGIV and our growing community of horticultural businesses. We look forward to helping you build your business through a long and fruitful relationship.
Enhance Nursery Solutions Pty Ltd (Retail)
Offer sales and customer service support to independent retailers on behalf of growers.
www.enhancenurserysolutions.com.au
Garden Gallery Kew (Retail)
Boutique Garden Centre offering sculpture, statues and one off pieces as well as a broad selection of plants, herbs and seedlings.
www.gardengallerykew.com
Garden Keepers Australia (Allied)
Supplier of premium gardening gloves. www.gardenkeepers.com.au
Healesville Garden Supplies (Retail)
Supplying a full range of nursery and associated products in a retail environment.
www.healesvillegardensupplies.com.au
Orchid Emporium Pty Ltd (Production)
We grow and import Orchids from tissue culture. We specialise in Phalaenopsis and seasonal suppliers of Cymbidiums, Oncidiums and Dendrobiums.
www.orchidemporium.com.au
NGIV Horticultural Awards Night celebrates industry achievements
By Matt Ross
Victoria’s horticultural industry was celebrated by more than 120 members, partners and distinguished guests at NGIV’s Annual Gala Dinner, a glittering occasion at the Park Hyatt Hotel on 28th May 2022.
Thank you to Gideon Cox (Ball Australia) who was our Master of Ceremonies on the night – he also took on the role of quizmaster, testing the horticultural knowledge of attendees in an intense but light-hearted battle of the brains. A team comprising David Howard, Felicity Krauser, Jane Wilkins, Peter Wilkins, Glenn Fenton, Jenni Fenton, Simon Gomme, Colleen Slattery, Barry Humphris and Rebecca Humphris took out the honours – and the bragging rights.
During the evening Mario and Ricky Diaco took the stage for a fascinating Q&A about the origins of Diaco’s Garden Nursery, following their grandparent’s migration from Southern Italy in 1949.
And it wouldn’t have been an Awards Night without celebrating some winners.
The Recognition of Industry Support Award went to Justin Muhlebach from Flinders Nursery who was NGIV’s first ever stand holder at Caribbean Gardens’ Trade Day. Justin never missed a single NGIV Trade Day in its 43 years at Caribbean Gardens and continues to turn out each month at KCC Park. A true gentleman, Justin has represented the industry for many years and has made a significant contribution during this time.
Paul Boland received a well-deserved NGIV Life Membership for the 11 years of service he gave on the NGIV Board of Directors, including four years as Vice President and three as President. He continues to offer his unwavering support and passion for our historic association. Having started out in the industry at the age of 16, Paul is truly a deserving recipient of NGIV Life Membership. Paul’s colleague, Tony Collins accepted the award on his behalf.
The Young Horticulture Leader of the Year was awarded to Teaghan Faull of Nishiki Nursery. Teaghan demonstrated to the panel of interviewers her true passion for the industry. Her determination has seen her overcome some difficult obstacles with aplomb. She is progressing in her career and is now managing the nursery inventory, as well as the social media
at Nishiki Nursery. We believe Teaghan will go on to be an inspiring industry leader.
The Horticulture Student of the Year went to Joshua Taylor of Peninsula Growers and Chisholm. Josh has gone above and beyond to further his education since leaving school at the age of 16 and pursuing a career in horticulture at Peninsula Growers Josh actively seeks out knowledge from his peers and trainers and translates new skills he has learned through his education into the workplace.
The NGIV President’s Distinguished Service Award will be presented to an extremely deserving individual later this month.
This year was the start of an exciting refresh of our Gala Dinner. NGIV President Simon Gomme announced a range of new awards which will be presented at the 2023 Awards Night (more information to follow):
» Retailer of the Year
» Wholesale Nursery of the Year
» Allied Business of the Year
» Branding and Marketing Award
» Community Engagement Award
» Teacher/Trainer of the Year
We were also treated to some wonderful live music from the talented Chris Hoffmann and a magnificent dinner including pre-dinner canapes and drinks.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Awards Night. We hope you enjoyed your evening and we’ll be bringing it back bigger and better in 2023!
NGIV Ceo CraigTaberner and Justin Muhlebach, Recognition of Industry Support Award recipient.
Young Horticulture Leader of theYearTeaghan Faull and Carl Soderlund. Horticulture Student of theYear JoshuaTaylor and Tony Collins.
NGIV retail members ready for VSGP spend
NGIV’s Victorian Schools Garden Program (VSGP) aims to inspire school communities to make the most of their outdoor spaces and promote a lifelong connection with the natural environment and, of course, gardening.
Now in its 45th year, VSGP has never had higher engagement from Victorian schools and is consistently receiving record entries for its Grants and Awards Programs, year after year
The program gives away almost $64,000 worth of vouchers to spend within NGIV Full Member retailers annually. This is a significant spend and a wonderful revenue stream for our members, as much as $12,000 per year for some retailers!
This year’s VSGP Grants program winners have now been announced and nursery vouchers to the value of $32,000 have been distributed to 48 successful schools across Victoria. A further $32,000 will be released to winners of the Awards program in November 2022.
How it works
Schools have to redeem their nursery vouchers at NGIV retailer member nurseries or allied businesses.
The winning schools have been provided with a list of NGIV retail members.
The voucher processing instructions are provided on the back of the voucher for your staff to follow; make your employees aware of the vouchers and VSGP.
The Grant winners
Here’s a list of this year’s winning school entrants, if you’re a full NGIV Retail Member, we encourage you to reach out to any local winning schools to offer your services.
School garden programs provide many children with the only opportunity to learn about the benefits and skills of gardening.
Along with VSGP, schools are helping to grow our industry’s future customers and employees. Please take the time to support schools that visit your nursery, by offering expert advice and building ongoing relationships when they redeem the vouchers.
2022 Victorian Schools Garden Program – Grant Recipients
Ausflora Pacific – Colourful Garden
Abbotsford Primary School
Billanook Primary School, Montrose
Kunyung Primary School, Mount Eliza
Noble Park Secondary College
Northern Bay College Peacock Ave Campus, Norlane
Wandin Yallock Primary School
Independent Schools Victoria – Sensory Garden
Creek Street Christian College Early Learning Centre, Bendigo
Erica Preschool
Lyrebird College, Coldstream
North-Eastern Montessori School, St Helena
St Josephs Primary School, Cobram
St Joseph Primary School, Orbost
St Vincent de Paul Primary School, Strathmore
Maxicrop – Edible Garden
Bass Coast Specialist School, Wonthaggi
Cheltenham East Primary School
MacKillop College, Werribee
Port Fairy Consolidated School
Warringa Park School, Hoppers Crossing Woodleigh School, Langwarrin South
NGIV and Horticultural Media Victoria
– Biodiversity Garden
Carlton North Primary School
Lyndale Greens Primary School
Macedon Primary School
Spensley St Primary School, Clifton Hill
Rotarians for Bees – Pollination Garden
Sacre Coeur School, Glen Iris
St Anne’s School, Sunbury
St Peter’s Primary School, North Bendigo
Tooradin Primary School
Victoria Road Primary School, Lilydale
Yarrabah Special School
Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools –School Yard Make Over
Marymede Catholic College, South Morang
St Anthony’s Primary School of Padua, Melton South
St Theresa’s Primary School, Albion
All Green – Local Nursery
Merriang Special Developmental School, South Morang
Australian Growing Solutions – Garden
Compost Soil
Alia College, Auburn
Diaco’s – Local Nursery
Wallington Primary School
Fleming’s Nurseries – Orchard Establishment
Grovedale Primary School
Department of Education – Maintenance Grant
Al Siraat College, Epping
Beaufort Primary School
Buckley Park College, Essendon
Castlemaine Primary School
Emmaus Catholic Primary School, Sydenham
Grovedale West Primary School
Launching Place Primary School
Le Page Primary School, Cheltenham
Mt Hira College, Keysborough
Nichols Point Primary School, Mildura
Omeo Primary School
Red Hill Consolidated School
Richmond Primary School
Sophia Mundi Steiner School, Abbotsford
Southern Cross Primary School, Endeavour Hills
St James the Apostle Primary School, Hoppers
Crossing
Templestowe Valley Primary School
Woodford Primary School
Hortitech – Product Package
Campbellfield Heights Primary School
ShapeScaper – Steel Planter & Edging
St Roch’s Parish Primary School, Glen Iris
Subpod – Grow Bundle
Mary MacKillop Primary School, Narra Warren Nth
Queen of Peace Primary School, Altona Meadows
Takasho – VegTrug Package
Sunshine Heights Primary School
2022 Turf Victoria – Turf Establishment
Keilor Heights Primary School
Warners – Outdoor Common Room
Bellbrae Primary School
Quality Plants & Seedlings – Spring
Seedling Package
Keysborough Gardens Primary School
Lalor East Primary School
St Kilda Steiner Kindergarten, Elsterwick
Victorian College for the Deaf, Melbourne
Scotsburn Nurseries – Seedlings Tray Package
Cana Catholic Primary School, Hillside
Galen Catholic College, Wangaratta
St Mathew’s Primary, Fawkner
Wangaratta Children’s Services Centre
The Victorian Schools Garden Program is proudly supported by
MIFGS reboot offers exciting opportunities for NGIV members
There have been some exciting developments recently with the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS), which will lead to more opportunities for NGIV members to become involved promoting their businesses, growing their brand, and broadening their customer bases.
NGIV is delighted to announce that leading event management company IMG has joined us as the joint owners of MIFGS*. Having managed the Show for nearly 30 years, IMG has a strong relationship with MIFGS.
For NGIV, we are now working with a global leading partner who is committed to growing MIFGS while celebrating Victoria’s horticulture industry. And that means new and exciting opportunities for our members!
NGIV and our members will have the opportunity to become more actively involved across the whole show and will no longer be limited to the NGIV Precinct. Our activations will receive increased
support from IMG, providing an exciting opportunity to truly showcase our industry to the 100,000+ attendees.
The new partnership also provides an opportunity to reimagine the show, delivering new attractions and features and telling new stories to an engaged and captive audience. Whether it’s promoting horticulture as an exciting career choice, celebrating the environmental and wellbeing benefits our industry provides or showcasing exciting industry innovation, this is an opportunity to reboot MIFGS in 2023.
As joint owners, we strongly encourage our members to grasp the unique opportunity to take part in MIFGS, the
Southern Hemisphere’s largest horticultural event and our industry’s key promotional outlet.
We will continue to communicate any MIFGS updates and opportunities to our members regularly. If you would like to find out more about getting involved, or you have show activation ideas that would benefit the entire industry, contact MIFGS Chair Michael Warner, NGIV President Simon Gomme or NGIV CEO Craig Taberner.
*In March 2022, former partner theVictorian Farmers Federation decided to discontinue its association with the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show.
New member profile: Process Water
Process Water is a newly formed division of the company Process Pumps Pty Ltd, who have been around for over 40 years.
Process Pumps is the importer and distributor of pumping, mixing and filtration equipment and a manufacturer in its own right, which service multiple industries including chemical, petrochemical, food and pharmaceutical as well as many other General Industries.
Among the products Process Pumps imports and distributes are dosing pumps from German manufacturer JESCO. Besides being a pump manufacture, JESCO also produces other products for water monitoring and treatment.
The directors at Process Pumps have recognised over the past decade that water is a scarce resource and is going to become more important for many businesses, as wasteful practices will be phased out and more environmental-friendly options initiated. To that end, water treatment, filtration and monitoring will become more important to ensure that the water being used is of the highest quality for its intended use. Thus, the Process Pumps sales team actively started selling water treatment and filtration and monitoring equipment.
As a manufacturer, Process Pumps is able to design and produce water treatment and monitoring systems which meet the demands for various markets in Australia, including NGIV members. As demand for these systems has grown, a dedicated water team under the banner of Process Water has emerged to handle sales, installation, service and repair of existing systems.
The team is headed up by Michael Rundell, who has 25 years’ experience in the pumping industry in sales and service and Daniel Beavan, who has 12 years in the pumping industry, in technical support, engineering and R&D. Process Water is now expanding its team by employing more personnel in sales and service roles, which are currently being looked after by the Process Pumps team.
Because of its capabilities, Process Water started dealing with Grayson Australia which requires systems for pumping its Vibrex product (chlorine dioxide – CLO2) which is used for water sanitation and pathogen control and is sold through Garden City Plastics and EE Muir & Sons, both well known to NGIV members.
As a result Process Water now works with Grayson, GCP and EE Muir & Sons to help growers maintain their existing water treatment systems as well as supplying new equipment when required, including pumps, filtration, fertilisation systems, pH monitoring, CLO2 production and chlorine monitoring).
Process Water has become a member of NGIV as it continues to see growers who require help with water supply, fertilisation and quality issues. NGIV has enabled the business to have a platform so that growers can better understand the operation and services Process Water can offer. Process Water has a Trade Day stand giving growers the opportunity for face-toface chats.
More information
For more information and services about Process Water, please visit our website www.processwater.com.au
Australian native pot plant to raise money for SAS Resources Fund
By Matt Ross
Helix Australia is proud to announce a fundraising collaboration with SAS Resources Fund with the release of one of their stellar hybrid plants – Waxflower ‘Local Hero’.
Bred by Kings Park & Botanic Gardens (Perth, WA), ‘Local Hero’ is a stunning compact landscape plant featuring masses of dainty pink blooms in early spring.
Helix Australia has commissioned a special Waxflower ‘Local Hero’ label, with a royalty of $1 from each plant sold donated to SAS Resources Fund.
The SAS Resource Fund’s mission is to assist current and former members of the Australian Defence Force, and their families, suffering hardship as a result of their service with the Special Air Service Regiment.
This assistance extends to other members and families of Defence Force personnel who were disabled or killed when participating in a Special Air Service Regiment controlled operation, exercise or activity.
Adrian Parsons, Managing Director of Helix Australia, says the release of Waxflower ‘Local Hero’ is eagerly anticipated by both the Australian nursery industry and gardening public.
‘We are excited to be partnering with SAS Resources Fund and, via our national grower and retailer network, will aim to raise over $50,000 per annum with the ‘Local Hero’ promotion over the next three years,’ said Parsons.
‘Our breeding program is now starting to produce more compact forms of waxflower which makes them more suitable for landscape use and also presents a lot better in bud/flower for retail sale, with less reliance on pruning and the use of plant growth regulators,’ he added.
Waxflower ‘Local Hero’ will initially be grown by Benara Nursery and be available in West Australian garden centres and Bunnings WA. Helix Australia is planning a national roll out of this fundraising initiative in 2023.
information Visit Helix Australia www.helixaustralia.com.au
Trade Day report
By Nan Cleven
Welcome to NGIV Trade Day, Australia’s largest wholesale plantlife trading and networking event.
After a seemingly long and cold winter, the first Trade Day of this busiest season of the year for the nursery industry was mild and sunny at KCC Park.
It was a hectic and buoyant market with all the colour, fragrance and activity of the start of spring as trade and the pace increased on this September morning.
Nursery & Garden Industry
Victoria (NGIV) Trade Day is more than just a market, it’s:
Australia’s
Buy direct from Australia’s best plant growers every
Indoor plants were once again in high demand. Solomons Wholesale Nursery stand was a
NGIV Trade Day is the perfect place to grow your business!
« Always keen for a chat – Mimo Porcaro one of our very popular standholders, discussing product range on the Habitat 101 stand.
Hortwide Services and Clyde Plant Nursery brightened up August Trade Day with plenty of potted colour.
« Carl enjoying a morning cuppa with NGIV President Simon Gomme of Powerplants, and Frank Schellekens from Kootenay Park.
« It must be wisteria season at Grandview Monbulk! Here’s Tom and Ted manning the stand and helping buyers with all their wisteria needs.
« Process Water is a Melbourne-based water treatment company, specialising in producing and supplying equipment used for the removal/control of pathogens within water through disinfection solutions. The business also offers a range of measurement and control systems as well as filtration options for all your water quality needs. The expert team was on hand to discuss water issues solutions to the buyers in attendance.
« Heavily loaded trolleys were being trundled about early – a hectic and buoyant market for all. Demand exceeding supply right from the start. We met Lyn from Mildura Pots & More, carefully balancing an array of potted colour on her well loaded trolley.
Interview with NextGen DAPHNE CROCKER
Billabong Garden Complex
Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at Billabong Garden Complex in the Propagation Nursery. Billabong is in Shepparton.
I grow plants from start to finish. I do cuttings which go into the hothouse to help grow roots. I then prick them out into 55mm tubes to go into the igloo. We wait until they grow larger and stronger then I pot them up into 140mm containers before they go out to the bays to grow more and be ready for sale to customers. These customers are other wholesale nurseries, landscapers and our own retail nursery that is open 7 days per week.
What do you like most about the nursery industry?
I like working with plants because I like to learn all different things about them and, at the same time, I have made many friends.
How long have you worked at Billabong and has your role changed?
I have worked at Billabong for 17 years. I didn’t know how to do any nursery work when I started but I thought plants were beautiful and I wanted to be a plant grower. Over this time, I have learned how to do cuttings, potting on, weeding, staking, pruning, dividing and how to prep stock for orders. The staff have taught me lots.
How did you end up working in the industry and where would you like your career to go?
I started in the nursery industry because I have a love plants and being outdoors, and I was able to work at Billabong Garden Complex as a supported employee.
I do enjoy making beautiful gardens, so would one day like to work as a gardener.
About NextGen
The Victorian nursery and garden industry is full of young, enthusiastic people, who are shaping the industry of the future. NGIV’s NextGen is a forum for people under 35 years of age to meet, exchange ideas and hone their leadership skills.
NextGen provides a unique opportunity for young horticulturalists to form networks and develop their careers, learn more about the industry, and have fun. Proudly sponsored by
What is a typical day like for you?
I get up at 6am to get ready for work, catch the bus at 6.30am to Shepparton. I get off the bus near work and catch a taxi to the nursery. I start the work day by having a cuppa with my friends and staff, before officially starting at 9am. I look at my tasks on the whiteboard and then do all kinds of nursery work until 4pm. A taxi picks me up from work to go to the train station to go home, and I arrive home by about 7pm.
Did you study horticulture and where did you study?
Yes, I have a Certificate 1 and 2 in Horticulture from William Orr Campus, Shepparton.
I did receive the CEO Achievement Award this year, which was a surprise. I was extremely happy and pleased, as it recognises the achievements of a supported employee within all ConnectGV Social Enterprises.
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I love looking after my garden, watching movies and going shopping.
Any final comments?
I really love my job, it’s great. I can’t be any happier than being here at Billabong Garden Complex in the Propagation Nursery.
Billabong Garden Complex is a ‘social traders’ certified social enterprise operated by disability service ConnectGV Growing and evolving over the years, the expansive garden complex, open seven days, is home to a large production nursery, a retail nursery, a gift shop, the Ruby Saltbush Café, a floral arrangement studio and, most recently, a venue hire facility for training, meetings and social gatherings. Every facet provides meaningful employment, training and work experience opportunities for local people with disabilities.
Supported employees with disabilities work alongside qualified and/ or experienced support staff to ensure each product or service delivers on customer expectations.
PRICE UPDATE
Decreased by $44.70 per tonne (2.28 cents per litre) Prices effective 1st-31st October 2022 (inc GST) Cat
Our Training & Events Officer, Lizzie Earl, has been working hard to put together a year of events that will educate, inspire and excite our members. Events are spread across Tree and Shrub Growers, Educational, NextGen and Marquee Events; to provide something for every member.
NGIV events are a fantastic way to meet industry peers, socialise and learn together. Further details on each event will be shared closer to the time.
2022 EVENTS
OCTOBER
6th – Human Resources Webinar Series: Christmas parties – Education
6th – 18th – Tree & Shrubs Growers Meeting: Mt Evelyn Garden Centre
20th – Level 3 Chemical Users Course: Training
24th – First Aid (incl. CPR) Course: Training
NOVEMBER
3rd – Human Resources Webinar Series: Sexual harassment –Education
8th – Trade Day
21st – Level 3 Chemical Users Course: Training
22nd – Annual General Meeting: Mansfield’s Propagation Nursery and online
22nd – Tree & Shrub Growers Meeting: Mansfield’s Propagation Nursery
DECEMBER
1st – Human Resources Webinar Series: Unfair Dismissal – Education
6-9th – Australian Horticultural Trials Week
7th – Tree & Shrub Growers Meeting: Trials Week –breakfast meeting at Ball Australia
15th – Level 3 Chemical Users Course: Training
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Preliminary Calendar. Dates subject to change. Details of events and booking details will be released closer to each date. Please check our website for the latest information.
