NGIV HORTICULTURAL AWARDS NIGHT

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

NGIV Ceo Craig Taberner and Justin Muhlebach, Recognition of Industry Support Award recipient. Young Horticulture Leader of the Year Teaghan Faull and Carl Soderlund. Horticulture Student of the Year Joshua Taylor and Tony Collins.

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!