Blooming Futures: A Snapshot of State Initiatives in the Nursery Industry

January 24, 2024

A recent ‘Plant Pod’ podcast episode, delved into the ongoing initiatives of state associations, highlighting progress, goals and upcoming events. As part of the Hort Innovation funded project, Nursery industry communications program (NY22000), the podcast provides updates to increase grower interest and engagement in levy-funded initiatives.

Here’s what the state association leaders had to say...

Victoria

Craig Taberner, CEO of Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV), shared project updates, including staging the fourth annual Horticulture Showcase at Victorian Parliament House in August 2023. This event provides industry with exposure to members of the Victorian parliament, to highlight the diversity and significance of Victoria’s horticultural sector.

Victoria is now preparing for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show and working on a feasibility study for a Horticulture Centre of Excellence.

South Australia

Danielle Chapman, Executive Officer of Nursery and Garden Industry South Australia (NGISA) outlined South Australia’s initiatives. These include a work health and safety manual to keep SA members up to date with current legislation, implementing improved communication strategies, and opening nominations for their association’s awards.

Socially, NGISA held their well-attended end of year Christmas function – a lawn bowling night. Looking ahead, members can expect another member tour in 2024, which will involve visiting nurseries and businesses in the northern area of Adelaide. The NGISA Awards of Excellence Presentation Dinner will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre on Saturday 17 February 2024.

Western Australia

Lisa Passmore, Executive Officer of Nursery and Garden Industry Western Australia (NGIWA), shared WA's involvement in industry events, irrigation workshops, and plans for a Southwest Members’ Forum. Lisa emphasised collaboration and supporting members as focuses for the future.

WA is working on their Next Gen event, targeted at those who are new to horticulture, as well as horticultural students. This event is held in collaboration with the local TAFE, where students get a behind-the-scenes look at Richgro’s state-of-the-art anaerobic digester plant, which transforms green waste into fertiliser and energy.

WA is currently conducting the Waterwork Irrigation Workshop, generously funded by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation. The initial two-day workshop took place on October 31st and November 1st, 2023. The next series of workshops is set to kick off in mid-February 2024.

New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory

Finally, Anita Campbell, CEO of Nursery and Garden Industry NSW and ACT, highlighted the state association’s impactful grant projects around flood remediation and apprenticeships. With a focus on attracting and retaining staff, Anita outlined the industry's demographic challenges and the need to futureproof through workforce development.

These updates underscore each state’s proactive efforts to address industry challenges and foster growth. With a collective commitment to innovation, advocacy and workforce development, the nursery industry's future appears promising. To listen to the full update, head to our Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/theplantpod/episode-21-whats-growing-on-in-the-greenlife-industry

Timestamps:

· 0.25 to 4:44 - Craig Taberner, CEO of Nursery Garden Industry VIC

· 4:45 to 7:45 - Dannielle Chapman, Executive Officer of Nursery and Garden Industry SA

· 7:46 to 12:37 - Lisa Passmore, Executive Officer of Nursery and Garden Industry WA

· 12:38 to 18:06 - Anita Campbell, CEO of Nursery and Garden Industry NSW/ACT