Aboriginal Heritage Garden Features in this Year’s International Plant and Garden show
For the first time, an Aboriginal co designed garden will feature in the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, presented by Scotts.
The Garden, designed by Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Landscape Designer Andrew Laidlaw, in consultation with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, is an invitation to consider the ecological and cultural significance of Wurundjeri land stewardship, and the importance of our remaining areas of indigenous vegetation.
To learn more about Aboriginal Culture experience an Aboriginal Heritage Walk at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne visit: https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/what-s-on-melbourne/aboriginal-heritage-walk/
Quotes from Andrew Laidlaw, Landscape Architect, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
“We feel that the landscape and garden industry has both an opportunity and a responsibility to encourage a cultural shift in the way people engage with their environments – more respectfully, attentively and sensitively. A significant part of that is appropriately acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their connection to country, and learning from their 60,000+ years of land stewardship.”
“Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show is the largest landscape and garden show of its kind in the southern hemisphere. It draws people from all over the country (more than 100,000 people over 5 days) – there are few better opportunities to instigate and encourage discussion, reflection and appreciation of Indigenous custodianship, Indigenous and native flora and the evolving interconnection between land, water, plants, animals and people.”
Design overview by Andrew Laidlaw, Landscape Architect, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
The design is conceptually and practically simple. Using the existing ficus as an anchor point, loose islands of planting gently guide visitors toward a central clearing – this is a place for gathering, designed to encourage discussion without hierarchy.
Within the islands of planting, selected species represent three major plant communities within Wurundjeri Country – riparian zones and waterways, hills and foothill plant communities and drier heath forests and grasslands.
Informal seating throughout the clearing is provided by local basalt boulders – physically connecting visitors to the geological formation and history of Naarm and surrounding areas.
Charred branches of various indigenous plant species rise out of the plantings, creating a suggestion of enclosure without cutting the view of the water beyond. The burnt branches surrounded by young foliage speak to the cycles of fire and regeneration throughout Australia.
Quote from Elders, Members and representatives of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation
We have been custodians of this land for 65,000+ years. This garden –Wurundjeri biik (meaning Wurundjeri Country) – represents the plants of our Country, which includes the inner city of Naarm/Melbourne, extending north beyond the Great Dividing Range, east to Mount Baw Baw, south to Mordialloc Creek and west to the Werribee River.
We honour our Ancestors and Elders for their strength, resilience and sacrifice as they cared for Country, and we continue that legacy today. We welcome all those who gather at the Wurundjeri biik, and invite them to connect to our Country through spending time in this place
Wurundjeri biik is an invitation to consider the ecological and cultural significance of the plants of Wurundjeri Country, and the importance of protecting them. It features rare, threatened and culturally significant plants from the diverse landscapes of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country: Silky Blue-grass from the grasslands; Prickly Teatree from the heath forests; Coranderrk from the riparian zones and waterways; and Soft Tree-fern from the hills. Prior to colonisation, these plants were plentiful throughout Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country, but many are now under threat.
Wurundjeri biik was co-designed by Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elders, Members and representatives, Suzannah Kennett Lister and Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, whose Naarm/Melbourne site sits on the southern banks of the Birrarung/Yarra River. Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria connects people with nature at both its Cranbourne and Melbourne sites, champions plant conservation and is committed to supporting Traditional Owner aspirations to care for and heal Country and its Waterways.
Who Are We?
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has been the voice of Victorian farmers and rural communities since 1979, helping to create a sustainable and socially responsible agricultural industry connecting with all Victorians.
We’re an active and an influential lobby dedicated to the interests of farmers and making a difference to communities. With a strong record of successful political advocacy and leadership, we’ve helped deliver substantial benefits for farmers and regional Victorians for decades.
Even though farming has its own natural challenges from droughts, bushfires and floods, our members have collectively earned the VFF a reputation as a respected leader, contributor and advocate.
What do we do?
We represent all farmers across the state, including dairy, livestock, grains, horticulture (including flower growers and beekeepers), chicken meat, eggs and pigs, who combined, make an enormous contribution to Victoria’s economy and employ thousands of people in every corner of Victoria.
As a member focussed organisation, with every member we gain, our voice becomes stronger. Being a member of Victoria’s largest farm advocacy group, gives you the assurance that your needs and requirements as a farmer are being heard. Your commitment to the VFF ensures we can continue doing what we do best – fighting for the rights of Victorian farmers.
How do we support our local flower industry?
Victoria’s flower industry is a big part of what we do and who we advocate on behalf of. Incorporated into our horticulture membership, we strive deliver to a united voice for Victorian growers on horticultural issues to all levels of government.
It represents food producers growing tree fruit, berries, vegetables, tomatoes, potatoes, grapes and cut flowers. It also includes beekeepers who provide an essential pollination service to the horticulture and grains industries.
The Victorian horticulture sector at last count has over 3,700 horticultural businesses and a farm gate value of around $2.4 billion.
The industry employs 50,000 full time employees which increases significantly during the November to March harvest period. This makes the industry a significant contributor to the Victorian economy, particularly in rural and regional areas.
What do we stand for?
It’s clear that we stand for famers, but what’s an example of how we help make a difference?
When it comes to our local flower industry, we’ve been a leading voice in calling for the introduction of ‘country of origin’ information to be provided to consumers when buying flowers, so they can make an informed decision.
During COVID-19, even amidst wedding cancellations and a last-minute lockdown during Valentine’s Day, demand for locally grown flowers surged as international border restrictions put a handbrake on international flower imports.
This was one of the very few times when consumers could be confident that the flowers they were buying were coming from local suppliers. We think consumers should have the opportunity to know where their flowers come from and the option of supporting local.
Victoria is a big producer of the total amount of Aussie flowers, roughly supplying 60 per cent. However, up to 50 per cent of the flowers available are actually imported.
Where are they coming from? 40 per cent of the flowers that consumers buy are imported from as far away as Ecuador, Kenya, Singapore, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia and China.
And why is this a problem? The reliance on imported flowers and foliage presents a substantial threat to Australia’s horticultural and agricultural industries. Of all goods imported into Australia, cut flowers and foliage represent the highest rate of live pest interceptions by the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture. It of course also takes money offshore and doesn’t support our local growers.
How do you help us?
Get involved. We have a range of memberships available, no matter what you farm and even if you don’t!
When you’re a VFF member, not only to you join Victoria’s largest group of farmers helping to advocate on all of the pressing issues, you get access to a range of exclusive member benefits and discounts on behalf of our wide-range of VFF partners.
Join today and learn more
Becoming a VFF member is easy and we have a number of options to ensure you get what you’re after.
Visit our website at vff.org.au to read more today or call the team on 1300 822 833 to chat to one of our team and discuss how we can make the VFF work for you.
The All-New Challenger Seafood & Sips Experience!
Make it the ultimate day out and secure your table at the new Challenger Seafood and Sips sessions! Escape to an exclusive area amongst the Carlton Gardens to enjoy a two-course seafood menu paired with free flowing bubbles for a 90min session! This new offering is the perfect way to complete the ultimate day amongst the blooms at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show!
Check out the full offering below, and secure your table at this exclusive experience.
Entrée
Cajun Honey Tiger prawns Served on a bed of gourmet lettuce, and oven-roasted cherry tomatoes and sesame zucchini and carrot spaghetti on the side.
Main course
Grilled salmon with a lemon cream butter sauce, fried till crispy and seasoned potato squares and chunky vegetable and avocado salsa.
Immerse yourself in a culinary journey amongst the stunning Carlton Gardens at the Challenger Seafood and Sips!
Whether you’re seeking a romantic date or a memorable outing with friends, the Challenger Seafood & Sips package promise to elevate your experience at the #melbflowershow
Dayne Robinson – Pocket Profile
A seasoned florist with nearly two decades of experience, turning a childhood passion into a flourishing career. As a multi-award-winning florist, Dayne proudly represented Australia on the international stage, securing two national titles. Beyond crafting stunning arrangements for my clients at Pinkie Promise, Dayne is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of florists through teaching at MMC and The Gordon.
Having participated in #melbflowershow since my apprentice days in 2010 she has immersed herself in various competitions, consistently pushing creative boundaries. Whether it’s securing gold in the floral design category or simply relishing the joy of sharing her creativity, each appearance at the show is a highlight of her journey. Encouraging fellow florists to embrace the enriching experience of participating in this vibrant event – a space where creativity flourishes, industry bonds strengthen, and unexpected opportunities blossom.
When/How did you get into the industry?
I applied for a job at my local florist when I was 14. It was my first job and I was still in school, I had dreams of becoming a dentist but once I started working in the florist I fell in love with floristry and the industry. I just knew this was what I was meant to do. A few years later I started an apprenticeship and by the age of 21 I represented Australia in floristry at an International level. I absolutely love my job it’s a dream career.
What are you most excited about at this year’s #melbflower show?
I teach floristry at Marjorie Milner College and The Gordon and I will have many students competing in the student competitions.
So, this year I’m looking forward to supporting my students through this journey, and seeing the beautiful arrangements they create.
What is your favourite flower trend of the season?
Sustainability is really trending throughout all industries at the moment and I’m excited to see what this brings to our industry!
I am loving the garden/natural looks that are emerging, incorporating flowers with natural elements like seed pods, and even plants. I looking forward to seeing some creative natural designs – potentially including some peachy and apricot tones (which are my absolutely favourite!)
Lastly, I will always be a huge fan of big, bold colours. I am hoping to see really bright wow factor colour palettes make an appearance this year too.
Who has been the biggest influence on your floral career?
My family and nature – I grew up in the garden with my grandmother, my mum and my aunties. They were always fiddling, planting and changing their gardens around, I was raised outside in nature, learning to appreciate nature, flowers and gardening.
My mentor – Natalie Raffaele (aka my stage mum) she has been my biggest support from day one and she will always be an inspiration and have a huge influence on me.
If you could invite any three people to a garden party who would they be?
Alison Wright (photojournalist) – Alison Wright was an amazing women. Adventurous, fearless and an absolute inspiration.
The talking flower patch from Alice in Wonderland – who wouldn’t want to talk to flowers?
Paul Rudd – no explanation needed.
If you had a floristry super power what would it be?
I would love to have a superpower the same as Elsa from Frozen – but with flowers.
Almost like a floral composer. To shoot flowers out of my hands, anytime, anywhere. It would not only make work easier, but also make the world happier as I shoot flowers everywhere at everyone.
Debra Pemble – Pocket Profile
Debra Pemble, AKA The Posy Crew, is a floral designer and floristry educator based in Far North Queensland. With years of hands-on experience in retail floristry, she is now dedicated to crafting florals exclusively for weddings and events, as well as educating the next generation of flower enthusiasts.
Working from her home studio in the rainforests of Julatten (near Port Douglas), she draws inspiration from the wild and unusual botanicals that surround her. Many of her designs feature unexpected elements or techniques to capture the essence of this tropical environment.
Debra is passionate about the floristry industry and openly shares her knowledge and skills with others in an effort to cultivate a stronger, more creative floristry community.
This is Debra’s first appearance at the Melbourne Flower and Garden Show and she is super excited to showcase her work to an entirely new audience and share a little piece of her tropical home.
When/How did you get into the industry?
My first thought of a floristry career was actually a bit of joke whilst in High School (a very long time ago). Everyone else was planning University and I wanted something much more fun and creative, so I thought Florist! Getting paid to “play” with flowers seemed like a great idea. After a short stint in a floristry shop just out of school, I eventually moved away and tried a more serious corporate career. It took a few years for me to realise this wasn’t the world for me and about 18 years ago I signed up for my Certificate 3 in Floristry and have loved every working day since!
What are you most excited about at this year’s #melbflower show?
As this is my first show, I am super excited just to be attending! I am looking forward to meeting other creative, flower folk and seeing all of their amazing creations, and just connecting with other flower enthusiasts over our shared love of florals. I am also very excited about sharing with everyone a little slice of my tropical home in my floral display.
What is your favourite flower trend of the season?
I try not to get too carried away with trends as they seem to come and go so fast (but yes, I am still reflexing roses!) One thing that I do love is the very open garden styles that we see now. Lots of textures and moving, twisted lines along with those delicate seasonal blooms.
Who has been the biggest influence on your floral career?
I am always looking to learn as much as I possibly can and believe that you will never know it all when it comes to this industry. Over the years I have worked with some amazing people and sort out instruction and mentoring from people I really respect within the industry. One of my biggest influences at the start of my career, especially with regards to retail floristry and running a good floristry business was from a lady called Merrilyn, she ran a retail florist in Clare where I studied my Cert 3. She shared so much information with me about the industry and this really helped me when I decided to step out on my own and run my own business. More recently at the end of 2022 I travelled to the UK and Europe to attend some schools and flower show in London, Spain and Holland, and have to say this experience has been a huge influence on the designs I do today. The knowledge I gained has given me the confidence to experiment a little more and just follow my intuition rather than over thinking things.
If you could invite any three people to a garden party who would they be?
Gregor Lersch, the godfather of Floral Design. I just want to be in a room with him and talk design.
Queen Charlotte (from Bridgerton), she’s strong, sassy and would speak her mind (also we could all then dress up with fabulous wigs and gowns).
Lastly a garden party wouldn’t be complete without Costa Georgiadis from Gardening Australia! We could chat about exotic plants, and he’d look great in one of those wigs, LOL.
If you had a floristry super power what would it be?
The Flash…. I reckon I am pretty quick on the workbench. Especially in my Retail Floristry days, I could whack together an all round arrangement in no time!
Best places to connect with Debra
Instagram @the_posy_crew
Sign up to her monthly Education newsletter on the website www.theposycrew.com.au
CROSSRAY BBQ MASTERCLASS
CROSSRAY is Coming to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show 2024!
Get ready to fire up your taste buds and experience grilling excellence like never before with CROSSRAY.
CROSSRAY, is a proud sponsor of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show 2024 where we will unveil the latest innovations and capabilities of our BBQs at our stand. The show is open from March 20 to 24 and you can see the innovative CROSSRAY BBQ’s in action at stand A43 in the Carlton Gardens.
Mark Your Calendar: The CROSSRAY Masterclass is Coming! Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th March
CROSSRAY is hosting four ticketed masterclasses led by beloved footy legend and media personality, Brian Taylor (BT) and popular home cook, Jack the Greek.
Join us for an enriching masterclass where you’ll discover the art of cooking on a CROSSRAY BBQ. During the masterclass, enjoy 3 tasting plates complemented by a selected trio of wines (tasting size) for the ultimate pairing experience.
Guests attending the masterclasses will also receive complimentary gift bags filled with products and special offers, ensuring a memorable experience to take home.
There are only a limited number of tickets available, so don’t wait! Secure your spot now and join us for an unforgettable culinary adventure!
Ellen Douglas: Pocket Profile
When/How did you get into the industry?
I got into floristry through an apprenticeship in 2008. It was a spur of the moment decision after completing an illustration course that I already knew would not be my career. However, I still craved something creative, so I applied for the florist’s apprentice position and never looked back. Since then, I worked in different retail florists gaining experience and honing my skills until opening Botany as an online delivery-based florist in 2019. The focus of my business since its inception is locally grown and seasonal flowers, presented in reusable, returnable or recyclable packaging and delivered with minimal environmental impact.
What are you most excited about at this year’s #melbflower show?
For the first time in its history, the MIFGS floral displays in the Great Hall will have a focus on low-impact, low-waste mechanics and sustainable, earth-conscious choices of floral material. This reflects the current shift in our industry toward responsible business practices that do not harm our environment. Botany will be partnering with Grown Not Flown to create a display that showcases local, Victorian grown flowers and indigenous plants, bringing together ‘the Floristry and the Flower Farm’. The design will transport viewers to a local farm where seasonal autumn flowers grow in beautiful, natural drifts across the landscape.
What is your favourite flower trend of the season?
We follow the flow of nature to find inspiration throughout the year, rather than looking to trends that may not always align with the current season. For autumn (the season the show will take place), I adore mixing the seedpods from summer flowering varieties with fresh florals and beautiful foliage – every part of the plant has beauty and we love to showcase each element in our daily arrangements. Peach, apricot and bronze are always popular and this season has some beautiful options in that palette.
Who has been the biggest influence on your floral career?
I have always loved wandering through gardens and I adore the garden design work of Piet Oudolf and the photography of Claire Takacs. Both show a deep appreciation for nature in all her seasons. In our own industry I have loved following the careers of Rita Feldmann and Joost Bakker who have long championed sustainable floristry and were huge inspirations in opening Botany.
If you could invite any three people to a garden party who would they be?
I love watching Claus Dalby’s content on Instagram – he is a Danish gardener with lots of plant and gardening knowledge to share and seems like he’d be great to have a cuppa and a good yarn with. I would also love to meet Patagonia’s founder Yvon Chouinard for a business chat – Patagonia is company goals and I’d be fascinated to hear about their journey. Also at our garden party would be Aketch Joy Winnie, a content creator from Uganda who has the most hilarious, dry sense of humour that I love but also talks a lot about community (real community) which is mostly missing from life here.
If you had a floristry super power what would it be?
To turn every barren space in Melbourne into public gardens full of flowers and vegetables. Even those tiny, dusty, empty blocks you see behind wire fences, in between apartments and houses, these are spaces we could be growing in. I know people own these spaces and the gardens would only be temporary, but luckily it does not take long for a vegetable to grow or a flower to bloom.
AUTUMN IN THE VINEYARD:
WITH THE CHANGE OF SEASON BRINGS A CHANGE OF WINES
As the season begins to turn, there are two important questions that need to be answered. What wines are good in autumn? And what wines pair best with autumn recipes?
From lighter-bodied wines paired with autumn salads and vegetarian dishes to medium and fuller-bodied wines paired with more hearty, comforting fare, there’s a delicious diversity of food and wine matches to explore.
Autumn in Australia offers a bounty of vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Bursting with earthy flavours, beetroot, wild mushrooms, eggplant, fennel, figs, quinces, walnuts, and pecans are all plentiful, so prepare yourself for a season of delicious dishes and wines to complement them.
With its still-warm days and the arrival of crisp evenings, autumn is an exciting time for fresh produce. The fruits and vegetables that required time to ripen over the summer months are at their best early in the season and are now ready for you to enjoy, paired with an array of flavoursome Australian wines.
Strap in your taste buds and read on to discover some absolutely mouth-watering matches!
AUTUMN SALAD RECIPES AND WINE
Add seasonal fruits, vegetables, and nuts to a mix of leafy greens, and you have a fresh, flavoursome, and healthy dish to enjoy. Pair with Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon blends, and Pinot G for lighter autumn salads, or for those with richer dressings or a nutty character, medium to full-bodied whites including Chardonnay and Verdelho are delicious.
FRESH FIGS WITH BLUE CHEESE & PROSCIUTTO
In this dish, the figs bring vibrant fruit flavour and the cheese and cured meat give a salty edge. Aged Riesling pairs well as the intensity of the fruit flavours match that of the fig, whilst the richer honey notes of the Riesling offset the saltiness of the cheese and the prosciutto. Given the Mediterranean nature of this dish, a Rosé would also be a lovely pairing.
PANCETTA-WRAPPED CHICKEN BRAISED IN PERRY WITH PEAR AND WALNUT SALAD
The pancetta has added richness and a hint of salt to the chicken. Chardonnay has enough body to compliment this dish, whilst the nutty notes are a great match to the walnut salad. Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier (or a blend of all three) are also wonderful pairing options.
VEGETARIAN AUTUMN RECIPES AND WINE
Vegetables lend themselves to so many cooking styles that bring out their earthy richness and textural crunch. Light to medium-weight and savoury reds such as Merlot, Pinot Noir and Grenache are a good choice, while whites, including Sauvignon Blanc or Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blends, have herbaceous notes that pair well with green vegetables.
WARM SALAD OF AUTUMN VEGETABLES WITH WHITE MISO AND BLACK SESAME SEEDS
A delicious and easy-to-prepare combination of flavours and textures – earthy (mushroom, beetroot, and parsnip), umami (white miso), sweet (kumara), nutty (black sesame) and savoury crunch (brussels sprouts). With its fragrant and crunchy, and light to medium-bodied, almost Pinot-like characters, Nero D’Avola is a delectable match.
Given its soft acidity and texture, Arneis pairs well with lighter food flavours – try it with seafood pasta, salads with creamy sauces and shellfish. It’s also a lovely choice to enjoy with sweeter vegetable dishes like this sweet potato rosti.
AUTUMN PASTAS AND WINE
Pasta is a real crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed no matter what the weather. Bring out its best with an array of different sauces that include a selection of seasonal vegetables and herbs, and braised meats or seafood. White wine varieties including Semillon and Chardonnay are all fantastic pairings for fish and seafood-based pasta dishes. Rosé will also pair well. For medium-bodied red meat and vegetable pasta dishes, medium-bodied reds such as Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Barbera are perfect choices.
GNOCCHI WITH PORK AND FENNEL RAGU
A rustic gnocchi dish, whose silken texture and subtle anise flavours pair superbly with the smooth, fruit-driven character of Pinot Noir.
RAG PASTA WITH PUMPKIN, SAGE AND TOMATOES
Barbera is a perfect wine match for two reasons – this dish is medium-bodied, so it calls for a medium-bodied wine, plus the high acidity of the tomato is complimented by Barbera’s lovely soft tannins.
HEARTY AUTUMN RECIPES AND WINE
A hearty dish needs a hearty wine. A red wine with some weight and body, like a Tempranillo, Malbec or Shiraz, is the best pairing.
NORTH AFRICAN LAMB SHANKS WITH QUINCE & ISRAELI COUS COUS
Cabernet Sauvignon and lamb is a classic match, and this rich, slow-cooked recipe is no exception, especially with the inclusion of fragrant and sweet quince, currants and Middle Eastern flavours.
PINE MUSHROOMS ON TOAST WITH RICOTTA
While traditionally Pinot Noir is a classic match with mushrooms, Aussie expressions of Sangiovese are also a tasty alternative to serve with this rustic and rich autumnal dish. Or try a Sparkling Shiraz for an indulgent brunch treat.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
For more great food and wine combinations, be sure to check out these dedicated Food and Wine Pairing pages.
VISIT US AT THE SHOW
Discover autumn’s wine delights with Wine Selectors! Enjoy complimentary tastings of premium Australian wine at the show.
Phillip Withers and Fiona Brockhoff – Pocket Profile
Designed by Phillip Withers in collaboration with Fiona Brockhoff.
Blurb:
SaltBush is an experience…of the coexistence of humans with the land, with flora, with fauna, with water, and with each other. An experience of a journey into a garden to discover what our environment means to us. An experience that inspires ongoing observation and learning and encourages humans big and small to not only appreciate, but to actively care for nature.
The setting for this experience is the Victorian coastline. The journey begins in the salt coastal dunes, traverses a rocky hinterland and wetland where water is naturally filtered by aquatic plants and culminates in an inland bush setting. Here a gathering place promotes immersion, observation, connection and reflection.
The garden has been constructed from recycled and local materials and consists entirely of Victorian indigenous plants which will provide habitat for local wildlife. Water treatment has been designed to balance a healthy ecological system with aesthetic objectives.
Together, these elements create a strong connection with the Victorian coastal natural environment. They infuse an authentic connection to place in the garden visitor; principles that can be applied to any garden small or large, urban or rural.
Consideration has been given throughout the design journey as to how waste can be minimised at the conclusion of the show. SaltBush will be repurposed in Geelong and the Bellarine.
Show Gardener Profile: Phillip Withers
When/How did you get into the industry?
I started in fashion design but found a passion for natural landscapes through traveling and a chance job in the industry where I grew up to the East of Melbourne. It was then a matter of putting the two together and doing further study into landscape design, and establishing Phillip Withers in 2012.
What are you most excited about at this year’s #melbflower show?
Being involved again and talking to the industry and the public, we are big advocates for making design approachable. Talking about landscape is something that only builds further passion, feeding the next generation of budding garden designers.
What is the gardening trend of the season?
We don’t really get caught up in what everyone’s doing to be honest, but clients are coming to us with more of a conscious. Hence our designs respond to that, creating a more natural and environmentally considered garden. At the end of the day the two go hand-in-hand.
Who has been the biggest influence on your design career?
There has been a few people, I find it very important to have mentors and collaborate. But right now my biggest mentor is Fiona Brockhoff, and learning from her amazing wisdom and years of considered work.
If you could invite any three people to a garden party who would they be?
Teresa Moller
Ash Grunwald
Rory McIlroy
Show Gardener Profile: Fiona Brockhoff
When/How did you get into the industry?
After completing landscape design studies, Fiona gained real insight into unique ecosystems and how plant communities had evolved to deal with Australia’s often-harsh conditions. Whilst gaining experience with various designers, working on re-vegetation projects in coastal and alpine areas, designing country gardens where resources are often limited, and through her love of hiking and observing the natural environment she focused her passion for creativity on designing gardens that were uniquely Australia.
What are you most excited about at this year’s #melbflower show?
This year, like each year previously, Fiona is hoping to see a keener focus on repurposing materials, sustainably designed and made Australian made products and plant species and cultivars showing good ecological fit or site suitability for our environment. Basically, examples of good sustainable design with an Australian feel.
What is the gardening trend of the season?
The term ‘trend of the season’ implies a fleeting concept, which is not something Fiona Brockhoff looks to in garden design. Instead, her objective is to bring together all the functional elements required in the landscape in a beautiful and cohesive design that is in harmony with the landscape and architecture that inspired it. These values in the design process materialise as an authenticity and uniqueness in each landscape.
Who has been the biggest influence on your design career?
Landscape designers Edna Walling and Thomas Church have inspired Fiona. More broadly, Fiona has keen interest in modernist architecture and a passion for observing the natural world.
If you could invite any three people to a garden party who would they be?
Three people Fiona would invite to a garden party are Joost Baker, Roberto Burle Marx and Bob Brown.
WANT TO VOLUNTEER?
Come and volunteer at the 2024 Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show and immerse yourself in the world of horticulture. Spend your days surrounded by awe-inspiring floral installations and world-class landscape designs.
Learn more and apply HERE
