In this episode… Chris sits down with Samuel Fragapane from All Green Nursery, a family-run business with a rich 45-year history in Melbourne’s west. Samuel shares how his grandparents’ humble beginnings selling plants from their backyard evolved into a multifaceted operation spanning retail, wholesale, garden supplies, and soil production with over 100 staff. They dive into the lessons and challenges of balancing tradition with innovation, family dynamics in business, and the realities of succe...
Jul 09, 2025•41 min•Season 12Ep. 125
In this episode… Our host, Chris Weiss, chats with Jocelyn Bennett from Earthcore Landscapes, the design force behind the gold-winning Boutique Garden at the 2025 Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show. Jocelyn shares her unconventional path from engineering student to landscape designer, the challenges and triumphs of showcasing a native garden at MIFGS, and the power of design and construction working hand-in-hand. She reflects on the steep learning curves of running a small business...
Jun 26, 2025•34 min•Season 12Ep. 124
In this episode… Our host, Chris Weiss, is joined by plant-loving power duo Lisa Ellis and Teena Crawford, co-authors of the groundbreaking new book Plantology . With over 60 years of combined experience in landscape design and horticulture, Lisa and Teena walk us through the five-year journey of co-writing this beautifully curated resource, packed with nearly 200 detailed plant profiles, practical design tips, and plant placement strategies. From stories of childhoods spent in nurseries to navi...
Jun 11, 2025•43 min•Season 12Ep. 123
In this episode… Chris Weiss sits down with Dave ‘Geltchy’ Geltch, General Manager of Farms at Coolabah Turf, to explore the evolving world of turf production. Dave brings a unique perspective as a landscaper-turned-farmer, offering a deep dive into the intersection of landscaping, horticulture and agriculture. The conversation spans from robotic mowers and turf innovation to site prep best practices and climate resilience. Hear how automation and R&D are shaping the future of turf farming i...
May 29, 2025•33 min•Season 12Ep. 122
In this episode… Chris Weiss sits down with former A-League goalkeeper and now PhD candidate in sports psychology, Jamie Young , to explore the surprising parallels between elite sport and running a trade business. Jamie shares candid insights from his 20-year professional football career — the highs, the tough lessons, and the mindset shifts that carried him through nearly 600 games. He unpacks the mental resilience required in sport, how leadership shapes outcomes, and what tradies and busines...
May 14, 2025•41 min•Season 12Ep. 121
In this episode… Our host, Chris Weiss, chats with brand strategist and founder of BRND, Samantha Tait, about how landscaping businesses can harness the power of brand to stand out in a crowded market. Sam shares her journey from PE teacher to brand innovator, how storytelling outshines advertising, and why niching is more important than ever. They explore simple but powerful strategies for landscaping businesses to strengthen their brand presence without needing big marketing budgets. These inc...
Apr 30, 2025•36 min
In this episode… Host Chris Weiss chats with the 2024 Victorian Landscape Industry Awards Apprentices of the Year—Caitlin Sanderson (Horticulture, Parks & Gardens) and Jessica Whatnall (Landscape Construction)—about their unique journeys into the landscaping industry, their career aspirations, and the lessons they’ve learned on site and at TAFE. From pushing barrows of concrete to designing planter boxes for public spaces, Caitlin and Jess share how they found their passion in landscaping, c...
Apr 17, 2025•34 min•Season 11Ep. 119
In this episode… Chris Weiss is joined by Peter Shaw—founder and creative director of Ocean Road Landscaping and author of Soulscapes: Connecting Gardens to Landscapes, for an honest and insightful conversation about building a career, a business, and a life rooted in the coastal environment of Anglesea. With over 30 years in the industry, Peter shares the evolution of Ocean Road Landscaping from a humble ute-based operation into a thriving design, construction, and maintenance business with nea...
Apr 03, 2025•38 min•Season 11Ep. 18
In this episode… Chris chats with Jane Jones from Jane Jones Landscapes, winner of the 2024 Landscape of the Year and Softscape of the Year awards for her spectacular Portsea Project. Jane shares the journey behind her five-year project, where collaboration, site-specific design, and ongoing maintenance were key to success. She discusses the evolution of her design philosophy, the challenges of working in a coastal environment, and why strong client relationships make all the difference. 🔔 Foll...
Mar 19, 2025•34 min•Season 11Ep. 17
In this episode… Chris chats with Scott Tymkin, Director of Enkipools. Scott shares his journey from landscaping to leading a high-end pool construction business. He delves into industry challenges, the importance of process-driven operations, financial planning, and trends shaping the future of pool building. Key Takeaways The early years working with Ian Barker and the transition to Ian Barker & Associates. The founding of Enki Pools and the shift from landscaping to a dedicated pool busin...
Mar 05, 2025•41 min•Season 11Ep. 16
In this episode… Chris is joined by Simon Rosa from Simon Rosa Landscaping. He shares his journey from landscaping apprentice to business owner, tackling everything from regional growth to staffing challenges and large-scale project management. He discusses the shift towards high-end landscaping in regional Victoria and the importance of balancing design, construction, and maintenance to deliver top-tier results. ➕ Hit The Follow Button So You Don’t Miss Our Future Episodes ✍️ Review our show on...
Feb 20, 2025•39 min•Season 11Ep. 15
In this episode… Chris Weiss sits down with Associate Professor Claire Farrell, Director of the Burnley Campus at The University of Melbourne, to explore the role of plants in solving urban challenges. Claire shares her journey from studying plant ecology and dryland salinity to pioneering research in green infrastructure, green roofs, and low-maintenance plantings. Key takeaways: Green infrastructure is critical for urban sustainability, providing cooling, biodiversity, and stormwater managemen...
Feb 08, 2025•36 min•Season 11Ep. 14
In this episode… Chris Weiss sits down with Matt Mansfield to explore the cutting-edge world of plant propagation and the future of horticulture. From Mansfield Propagation Nurseries’ 70+ year history to their state-of-the-art tissue culture lab and automation technologies, Matt shares insights into managing a large-scale nursery business. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping the landscaping and nursery industries. It addresses th...
Dec 04, 2024•37 min•Season 11Ep. 113
In this episode… Chris Weiss is back and sits down with Cameron Hainsworth of Abcam Horticulture to explore his journey from casually working in nurseries to founding a thriving horticultural business. Cam shares insights on building a solid foundation in horticulture through apprenticeship and industry experience, the evolution of Abcam’s unique service packages, and the importance of aligning business growth with personal values. He also highlights the role of mentorship, client relationships,...
Nov 21, 2024•36 min•Season 11Ep. 112
Landscape designer Ros McCully shares her career journey from graphic design to successful landscape design with stand-in host Ritchie Hinton. Ros offers insights into balancing creativity, client collaboration, and sustainable practices. She highlights the importance of industry connections and adapting plant choices to fit clients’ needs and Victoria’s climate. 🔔 Subscribe for More Landscaping Industry Insights 👁️🗨️ About Ros McCully Website www.rosmccullygardens.com.au Facebook Ros McCull...
Nov 07, 2024•43 min•Season 11Ep. 111
Richie Hinton fills in for Chris in this episode of The Front Garden. He sits down with Mathew Wandmaker, a Board member of Landscaping Victoria and the owner of Blue Ridge Property Maintenance. Mathew shares his inspiring journey from working in the banking sector to founding a thriving garden maintenance business. He dives into the challenges and triumphs of starting small, his decision to shift from residential to commercial maintenance, and his passion for keeping things hands-on while scali...
Oct 23, 2024•42 min•Season 10Ep. 110
In this episode… In this episode of The Front Garden, guest host Ritchie Hinton steps in for Chris Weiss to chat with Lauren Bianchi, Marketing and Communications Officer at Landscaping Victoria, about marketing strategies for landscaping professionals. Lauren shares her background in marketing and communications, her journey to Landscaping Victoria, and provides valuable insights and tips for small to medium businesses in the landscaping industry. She shares five essential marketing tips for la...
Oct 10, 2024•39 min•Season 10Ep. 109
In this episode… Special guest host Richie Hinton, CEO of Landscaping Victoria, interviews Wayne De Klijn from AQL Landscape Design. Wayne shares his journey from interior landscaping to running a diverse landscape architecture and construction business. He discusses his approach to various projects, from botanical gardens to urban spaces, emphasising the importance of adaptability in design, consideration of climate change, and the value of well-designed public spaces. 🔔 Follow The Front Garde...
Sep 25, 2024•38 min•Season 10Ep. 108
In this episode… Chris Weiss chats with Abby Kempe from Tradeswomen Australia (TWA) , who shares insights on promoting gender diversity in the trades industry. Abby discusses TWA's role as a social enterprise, emphasising the importance of education and cultural change in creating inclusive workplaces. She explores the challenges and opportunities in attracting and retaining women in trades, highlighting the value of open conversations and practical solutions for businesses of all sizes. Abby ex...
Sep 11, 2024•37 min•Season 10Ep. 107
In this episode… Chris chats with Michael Chapple from Urbane Landscape Construction, who shares his insights on growing a successful landscape business. Michael emphasises the importance of building a trusted team and offering comprehensive services. He discusses industry challenges, innovative techniques, and plans for Urbane, highlighting the value of professional development and client education in the evolving landscaping market. Some key takeaways from this episode: 🌱 How to go from a one...
Aug 28, 2024•42 min•Season 10Ep. 106
In this episode… Chris chats with experienced landscape designer Paul Pritchard, who shares insights on transitioning from construction to landscape design and his recent win at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS). He emphasises the importance of horticultural knowledge in landscaping and discusses industry trends towards sustainability and new materials. 🔔 Subscribe For More Landscaping Industry Insights 👁️🗨️ About Paul Pritchard Website: https://ppld.com.au View Pa...
Aug 14, 2024•36 min•Season 10Ep. 105
After four years, co-host Tyson Owen bids farewell to Chris Weiss and The Front Garden podcast, reflecting on the podcast’s history, memorable moments, challenges faced, and lessons learned. Chris and Tyson look back on the podcast's journey from a COVID-era connection tool to a valuable industry resource and a good yarn, emphasising perseverance, valuing yourself, and the importance of sharing diverse experiences in the landscaping field. Tyson shares his most memorable episodes: Paul Hamilton ...
Jul 31, 2024•34 min
In this episode… Chris & Tyson chat with landscaper Matt James and designer Nadia Cole about their experience creating a show garden for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. They discuss the challenges, rewards, and lessons learned from collaborating on a high-profile project with tight deadlines and logistical hurdles. 🔔 Subscribe For More Landscaping Industry Insights 👁️🗨️ About Matt James | Atlas Concrete & Landscapes Website https://atlasconcreteandlandscapes.com F...
Jul 17, 2024•40 min•Season 10Ep. 103
Chris & Tyson chat with Ken Bartlett from Ace Contractors Group. Ken digs into the complexities of commercial landscaping, including working with major builders, extensive safety procedures, and challenges like tight budgets and workforce diversity. The episode provides insight into how large-scale landscaping projects differ from residential work, highlighting the importance of relationships, systems, and adapting to market conditions. 🔔 Subscribe For More Landscaping Industry Insights 👁️...
Jul 05, 2024•37 min•Season 10Ep. 102
In this episode… Chris & Tyson chat with Emmaline Bowman from STEM Landscape Architecture & Design and Liam Riley from ID Landscaping Design & Construction. They discuss their experiences creating award-winning show gardens together at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS), highlighting the challenges, rewards, and lessons learned from participating in the event. They emphasise the importance of collaboration, detailed planning, and authenticity in design for s...
Jun 27, 2024•44 min•Season 10Ep. 101
In this episode… Benjamin Warner, General Manager at Urban Development Landscapers (UDL) Group, chats with Chris and Tyson and takes us on a journey from milking cows to million-dollar developments. Benjamin took an adventurous path from studying landscape architecture in Canada to becoming the General Manager at UDL Group, one of Victoria's largest commercial landscaping companies. UDL operates on a massive scale, constructing major projects, including sprawling streetscapes, parklands with gia...
May 22, 2024•39 min•Season 9Ep. 10
In this episode… Ross Anderson, the New Equipment Business Manager at William Adams CAT, joins Chris and Tyson to share his story or leaving Australia as a landscaper before returning several years later with experience running the state member association and getting involved in the heavy machinery industry. He provides insights into the landscaping industry's challenges, the role of associations, sustainable equipment developments at CAT, and how they engage the residential landscaping market....
May 08, 2024•42 min•Season 9Ep. 9
Chris & Tyson chat to Chris Defina (Head of Sales) & Marc Jarvis (Head of Marketing) from Arborgreen (Presenting Partner of The Landscape Show) in the latest episode of The Front Garden. Arborgreen is an Australian, family-owned and run business. They sell products and materials for tree establishment and care. If the right product doesn’t exist they will invent it! They are passionate about your success and will help you to achieve your botanical goals quickly and cost-effectively. EPIS...
Apr 24, 2024•36 min•Season 9Ep. 8
Join hosts Chris and Tyson as they chat with landscape architecture expert Nathan Burkett. From his beginnings in the industry to his shift from commercial to residential landscapes, Nathan shares his insights and experiences. Discover how the mentorship and guidance from Robert Boyle, shaped his career. Hear about Nathan's award-winning show garden at MIFGS and gain valuable insights into his creative process. Tune in now! EPISODE LINKS Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture - https://www.nathan...
Apr 10, 2024•38 min•Season 9Ep. 7
Paul Bangay is Australia’s most sought-after garden designer, with close to forty years’ experience. Known for his mastery of scale, balance, form and colour, Paul draws on his lifelong study of the natural and classical worlds to create gardens around the globe. EPISODE LINKS: Paul Bangay Garden Design - https://www.paulbangay.com/ Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! Coolabah Turf is an award-winning grower of premium, drought-tolerant, self-repairing in...
Mar 27, 2024•40 min•Season 9Ep. 6
