Overland Nurseries: raising the bar with NIASA accreditation
19 March 2025
At a glance
• 50+ years of excellence in garden plant supply
• Nursery Industry Accreditation Scheme Australia (NIASA) accredited since 1997 for best management practices
• Key strengths: quality control, weed management, operational efficiency
• Business impact: higher plant quality, streamlined processes and strong industry reputation
A commitment to quality
At Overland Nurseries, quality isn’t just a goal – it’s the foundation of everything they do. Every plant grown reflects a deep commitment to excellence, ensuring customers receive only the best, from root to leaf.
With more than 50 years’ experience, Overland has built a reputation as one of Sydney’s premier suppliers of garden plants, serving:
• retail garden centres
• landscapers
• hardware retailers across New South Wales.
Overland’s dedication to best management practices sets it apart, ensuring high-quality plant production, operational efficiency and sustainability.
The role of NIASA accreditation
NIASA provides a structured framework for best management practices, covering plant health, water management and biosecurity.
As Nursery Manager, Brent Tallis, explained, Overland Nurseries recognised the value of third-party accreditation early, achieving NIASA certification in 1997.
"We saw NIASA as an opportunity to formalise and refine our processes. It’s not just about meeting standards – it’s about taking pride in what we produce and ensuring every plant meets our high expectations," Brent said.
Overland has worked closely with Greenlife Industry Australia (GIA) extension officers, leveraging their expertise to enhance operations.
"Our relationship with the extension officer network has been invaluable. They understand the industry and provide tailored advice that helps us stay ahead of challenges," Brent said.
Expertise, innovation and best practices.
Brent, a key team member, started in horticulture at age 16. After completing his trade certification, he joined Overland in 1989. More than three decades later, his passion for quality remains at the core of his work.
"I’ve always believed consistency is the foundation of a great nursery. It’s about ensuring every plant meets the highest standards," Brent said.
A standout strength at Overland is its meticulous weed management system. "Many nurseries can grow plants, but maintaining top quality is another story. Our weed management system ensures pristine plants," Brent
said.
Overland’s approach was recognised nationally, with 19 images featured in an industry publication. "The impact of NIASA accreditation goes beyond compliance – it improves efficiency and reduces manual weed removal," Brent said.
The long-term impact of accreditation
"For businesses considering NIASA, it’s a game-changer," Brent said. "When visitors walk in and say, ‘wow, this looks amazing,’ that’s the best validation of your hard work."
Looking ahead, Brent acknowledges that the industry will always face challenges such as biosecurity risks, water management and shifting market demands. "However, with strong systems in place, we’re well-prepared to adapt. It’s not just about accreditation; it’s about using that framework to continually improve and grow."
With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a foundation built on best practices, Overland Nurseries is well-positioned for long-term success in Australia’s greenlife industry.
Learn more
For more information on accreditation and certification, visit greenlifeindustry.com.au/credentials
Interested in exploring NIASA certification? Visit nurseryproductionfms.com.au or contact Greenlife Industry
Australia at info@greenlifeindustry.com.au or 1300 95 95 13.
