The Front Garden

Landscaping Victoria

Landscaping Victoria brings you the latest in landscaping news, trends, and ideas by sharing some stories from people within the industry to help make your landscaping career a little easier. 

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Commercial Landscaping, Culture and Growth with Mark Slefendorfas | The Front Garden EP139

    In this episode… Our host, Adam Hompas, sits down with Mark Slefendorfas, Director of Brocor Group, to talk about building a commercial landscaping business from the ground up. Mark shares how he went from apprentice to business owner, starting out with the idea that it would just be him, one machine and a bit of work on the side, before growing Brocor Group into a large-scale operation delivering commercial landscaping and maintenance across education, aged care and early learning projects. The conversation explores the realities of commercial landscaping, from systems, software, and compliance to team culture, apprenticeships, project planning, and the increasing complexity of play spaces, podium landscapes, and maintenance contracts.  Mark also speaks candidly about leadership, the value of backing your people, and why support outside of work matters just as much as what happens on site. Key takeaways Mark’s landscaping journey began with a pull towards outdoor, hands-on work, leading him to leave university and start as an apprentice.Brocore Group has grown from a one-man setup into a sizeable commercial landscaping business with both construction and maintenance divisions.Maintenance has become a major part of the business, creating longer-term stability and stronger client relationships.The business focuses heavily on education, aged care and early learning, with many projects involving playgrounds and outdoor learning spaces.Daily reporting systems and job tracking software play a big role in keeping visibility across multiple live sites.Mark is a strong believer in doing as much work in-house as possible to maintain quality, ownership and team capability.One of the standout initiatives at Brocore Group is a dedicated apprentice mentor role, designed to give apprentices extra support and practical training on the tools.Commercial landscaping comes with growing compliance expectations, including OH&S systems, inductions, risk assessments and external certifications.The episode highlights how much thought now goes into technical project elements like drainage, podium landscapes, playground audits, soft-fall requirements and material selection.Mark speaks openly about culture, leadership and mental wellbeing, emphasising the importance of communication, ownership, support networks and balance outside of work.Looking ahead, Mark is focused on improving quality, broadening service capability and continuing to invest in people and smarter systems. 🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes. 👁️‍🗨️ About Mark Slefendorfas & Brocor Group Website: brocor.com.auBlog: brocor.com.au/blog/Facebook: Brocor GroupInstagram: @brocorgroupLinkedIn: Brocor Group (Landscape) and Mark SlefendorfasGot a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    40 min

  2. 4 MAR

    Rooftop Gardens That Work with Michael Casey | The Front Garden EP138

    In this episode… Our host, Adam Hompas, sits down with Michael Casey, Director of Evergreen Infrastructure, a specialist in green roofs and green infrastructure for urban, built developments.  Michael shares how he found his niche in the early 2000s, why extensive green roofs are among the toughest projects to get right, and what needs to change in the way we design, build, and maintain green infrastructure in Australia. This is an especially valuable listen for landscape construction businesses working on (or curious about) rooftops, podiums, facades, and multi-res projects, where the margin for error is slim, and the importance of good planning is everything. Key takeaways for landscaping professionals... Start with purpose, then design. Roof gardens aren’t “a garden up high” — they’re an engineered system with performance outcomes (stormwater, thermal capacity, visual impact).Weight isn’t static. Saturated media, plant mass growth, root mass, people and maintenance access all change load over time.Establishment is everything. Roof conditions are harsh; hand watering and additional early care can make or break success.Maintenance isn’t optional. Treat green infrastructure like an asset class that needs long-term budgeting, reporting and auditing.Bring the right people in early. Waterproofing, engineering, landscape construction and maintenance all need a seat at the table before designs are locked in.Client education prevents conflict. Plant loss can be normal; expectation-setting upfront protects everyone.  🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes.   👁️‍🗨️ About Michael Casey  Website: www.evergreeninfrastructure.com.au Blog: The Evergreen Journal Facebook: Evergreen Infrastructure Instagram: @evergreeninfrastructure LinkedIn: @Evergreen Infrastructure and Michael Casey   About the host Adam Hompas is a landscape builder with more than 15 years’ experience bringing outdoor spaces to life. As Director of Adam Hompas Landscapes and a registered building practitioner, he combines hands-on construction expertise with a deep understanding of how great landscapes come together. Known for delivering high-quality projects that balance thoughtful design with practical construction, Adam brings valuable industry insight to every conversation. As host of The Front Garden podcast, he chats with landscapers, designers and industry leaders about the ideas, challenges and innovations shaping the landscaping profession. Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    45 min

  3. 18 FEB

    Designing for Community, Canopy & Kids with Alannah Easton | The Front Garden EP137

    In this episode… We’re joined by Alannah Easton, owner of Olivera Landscape Architecture and Design, whose work sits at the intersection of community design, habitat gardening, and practical, buildable landscapes.  Alannah shares her unusual pathway into the industry (from the Department of Justice), why public spaces shape behaviour and connection, and how she’s turning that passion into real change through her school program Plant the Seed. We also dive into the realities of designing and delivering projects: navigating client budgets, collaborating with construction teams, setting projects up for success with good soil prep, and the not-so-glamorous challenge of planning regulations and overlays. Alannah wraps by taking us behind her MIFGS Boutique Garden concept; a story-driven design exploring the Victorian Volcanic Plains bioregion and how land use has shifted over time, from pre-colonial abundance to pastoral impacts and today’s re-awakening around indigenous vegetation and biodiversity.   Key takeaways Place design changes how people feel and behave. Alannah’s early work in community corrections showed her how streetscapes, parks and public spaces can either encourage connection or discourage it.Budget conversations work best when they’re staged. Start with the “wish list”, then refine once the concept, materials and scope are clear. Detailed design is where accurate quoting becomes possible.Good collaborations make projects smoother. A warm handover to trusted contractors (plus clear communication) helps maintain client confidence from concept through construction.Soil prep and plant selection are everything. Alannah designs for resilience by selecting plants suited to the site and climate, then setting them up with proper soil layers and mulch.Tube stock can outperform ‘instant’ plants. In the right conditions, younger plants can establish faster and avoid issues like pot binding.Plant the Seed: school gardens as climate + community infrastructure. Alannah’s program helps schools lift biodiversity, habitat value, and tree canopy, creating cooler, safer grounds and getting kids genuinely invested.Planning is often the biggest headache. Overlays and inconsistent interpretation can add time, cost and frustration, building in amendment rounds and setting expectations early is key.MIFGS Boutique Garden insight: Alannah is using a layered design to tell a land-use story across three eras, connected by a sculptural “tree stump” centrepiece and water moving through the site.👁️‍🗨️ About Alannah Easton Website: olivera.com.auPlant the SeedFacebook: oliveragardendesignsInstagram: @oliveragardendesignLinkedIn: Alannah Easton🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes. Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    46 min

  4. 5 FEB

    Shaping Landscapes with Toby Lestrell | The Front Garden EP136

    TL:DR A practical and candid conversation with Tobias Lestrell (Shapescaper) on better edging systems, weathering steel insights, and the realities of growing an Australian manufacturing business in the landscaping industry. In this episode… Adam sits down with Tobias Lestrell, owner and director of Shapescaper, to unpack the story behind a brand that’s become a go-to for metal edging, modular planter boxes and landscape rings. Toby shares how he moved to Australia from Sweden with an engineering background, entered the landscaping supply world in 2008, and eventually took the leap to build a business of his own.  Five years in, Shapescaper now manufactures in Bayswater (Melbourne, Australia), supplies through a strong retail network, and continues refining products based on real-world feedback from landscapers. We also get practical on-site tips, including how to achieve clean curves, what thickness to choose for tighter radii, and what to consider in coastal environments where weathering steel behaves differently.  Toby talks about the value of education (FAQ resources, videos), the importance of backing your stockists, and what it takes to grow a team while keeping culture strong. Key takeaways from the episode On-site shaping tip: For tight curves, Toby recommends 2mm thickness (it holds shape better and resists kinking) and working slowly rather than forcing the final shape in one go.Weathering steel basics: The “rust look” is a protective oxide patina that develops naturally over time; it’s low-maintenance and scratches tend to blend in as it continues to oxidise.Coastal considerations: Within 1km of a saltwater coastline, Shapescaper recommends going thicker (e.g., 2.5mm) as the protective oxide doesn’t form in the same way.Modular planter box system: Designed so landscapers can combine standard components to create long runs and custom sizes, with internal bracing for structural integrity.Distribution focus: Shapescaper prioritises supporting its stockist network rather than selling direct, helping ensure reliable availability for landscapers.Business growth realities: Toby speaks candidly about early financial pressure, scaling to a sizeable team, investing in machinery (including automation), and learning the importance of systems as you grow.Culture matters: Simple rituals (like a weekly Friday lunch) help keep teams connected when the pace is relentless. 🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes. 👁️‍🗨️ About Tobias Lestrell Website: shapescaper.com.auBlog: Shapescaper BlogFacebook: ShapescaperInstagram: @shapescapersteelLinkedIn: Tobias LestrellGot a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    43 min

  5. 27/11/2025

    Scaling Green: Inside Green by Nature’s Tech-Driven Growth | The Front Garden EP135

    In this episode… In this episode of The Front Garden, host Adam Hompas is joined by Mitchell William-Kelly and Jaimee Olsen from Green by Nature to unpack what it really takes to operate one of the largest commercial landscaping and grounds maintenance businesses across Australia and New Zealand. Born from the merger of four established companies, Green by Nature now brings together more than 120 years of collective industry experience. Mitchell shares how the business was strategically restructured into Specialty Services and Landscape Services, allowing the team to sharpen their focus across landscaping, irrigation, sports turf and large-scale commercial maintenance. From airport precincts and universities to elite sporting facilities and private schools, Jamie provides a behind-the-scenes look at on-site horticultural practices, from 13-week landscape establishment programs and native planting quotas to on-site nurseries and tree farms used for long-term asset management. The conversation also dives deep into sustainability and technology, including recycled irrigation systems, B Corp certification, carbon reduction targets, and the trial of Australia’s first fully autonomous zero-turn robotic mower at Essendon Fields. Mitchell and Jamie explain how automation is reshaping labour efficiency, quality control, and future workforce skillsets across the industry. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of large-scale landscape delivery, sustainability leadership, and technology-driven operations. Key Takeaways How Green by Nature unified four major businesses into one national brandThe structure behind Specialty Services vs Landscape ServicesWhat 13-week landscape establishment programs look like in commercial projectsHow recycled irrigation and on-site nurseries improve sustainability outcomesReal-world use of fully autonomous zero-turn robotic mowers in AustraliaWhy B Corp certification and carbon reduction targets matter for contractorsHow technology is changing turf diagnostics, pest control and workforce efficiencyWhere large-scale commercial landscaping is headed next  🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes.   👁️‍🗨️ About Mitchell William-Kelly & Jaimee Olsen from Green by Nature Website: greenbynature.com.auResource: Getting Ready for Summer Landscape and Horticulture GuideFacebook: Green by NatureInstagram: _greenbynatureLinkedIn: Green by NatureGot a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    49 min

  6. 13/11/2025

    Sustainable Sanctuaries & 3D Design with Natalie Back | The Front Garden EP134

    In this episode… Our host, Adam Hompas, sits down with landscape designer Natalie Back from Living Earth Design in the Dandenong Ranges to explore how a creek-loving childhood, a passion for plants and chickens, and her studies at Swinburne shaped her values-led approach to gardens.  A former LV student member turned full member and business owner, Natalie is carving out a niche for joyful, resilient landscapes that put soil health, biodiversity and edibles at the heart of the design.  Natalie talks about designing entirely in 3D with Vectorworks, using immersive walkthroughs to help clients truly understand and refine their gardens before construction. She and Adam dive into briefing for emotion and values, treating water and soil as assets, weaving in veggies and chooks in realistic ways, and why the right design can make a garden genuinely lower-maintenance.  Natalie also shares the story behind her “Sustainable Sanctuary” garden at MIFGS, her ambitions for future show gardens, practical advice for emerging designers, and the core values that drive her business: freedom, creativity, expertise, resilience and joy.  Key Takeaways Why 3D design matters: Using Vectorworks and walkthroughs so clients can clearly visualise and refine their garden before the build.A better client brief: Designing around feelings, values and joy—not just styles or plant lists.Soil as a sponge: Keeping rainwater on site, improving soil health and using permeability to build resilience.Biodiversity by design: Choosing layered, diverse plant palettes that support insects, birds and broader ecosystems.Edibles & chickens: Practical ways to incorporate veggies, wicking beds and chooks into real residential gardens.Show garden experience: What Natalie learned creating her “Sustainable Sanctuary” at MIFGS with a $10K OGV grant.Values-led business: How her core values guide each project and help qualify the right clients.Advice for emerging designers: Stick with it, learn from mistakes, gain construction exposure and know when to say no.If you’re a landscape designer or contractor looking to grow your skills, build your network and step into opportunities like Natalie’s – from student pathways through to show gardens – Landscaping Victoria membership can help. 🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes. 👁️‍🗨️ About Natalie Back Website: livingearthdesign.com.auLiving Earth Design BlogFacebook: Living Earth DesignInstagram: @livingearthdesignLinkedIn: Natalie Back Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    51 min

  7. 29/10/2025

    From Paving to People: Building a Resilient Landscaping Business with Ashley Kellett | The Front Garden EP133

    In this episode… Ashley Kellett from Global Landscapes chats with Adam about learning through mistakes, quoting with clarity, choosing the right materials for site and climate, balancing family life with work, and mentoring the next generation.  From shale in Wonga Park to sand in Bayside, granite vs bluestone, and why limestone’s having a moment, this episode digs into the practical decisions that protect margins and reputation. Key takeaways: Ashley’s journey from apprentice to owner (and why he stayed small on purpose).Quoting with transparency: breaking down costs without losing the job.Site realities: shifting specs for hard rock, sand, frost and coastal air.Materials that last: granite love, bluestone fatigue, limestone rising.Design-to-build workflow: quick sketches → outsourced 3D for client clarity.Subbie model + ex-apprentices: scaling without over-hiring.Handling tricky clientsHiring apprentices: what signals to look for (and why sport/teamwork still matters).LV wins: marketing masterclass takeaways and a job board lead that paid off.What’s next: less on the knees, more management, and maybe pools. Enjoyed this episode? Then you’ll love a Landscaping Victoria Membership! Get practical PD, industry nights, job leads, and a trusted community that helps you price with confidence, hire well and grow sustainably. If you’re ready to level up, explore LV membership and plug into tools, training and real-world referrals.   🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes.   👁️‍🗨️ About Ashley Kellett Website: www.globalandscapes.com.au Facebook: Global Landscapes Instagram: @global.landscapes.design Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    39 min

  8. 15/10/2025

    Game-Changing Concrete Solutions with Madewell Products | The Front Garden EP132

    TL;DR A practical deep-dive into contractor-first innovation with Madewell Products covering fibreglass reinforcement (GFRP), reusable formwork, architectural concrete know-how, and the on-site support that helps landscapers deliver better work with less labour. In this episode… From a simple idea to cut waste on site, Madewell has grown into a contractor-first toolkit for concrete done smarter. Kerolos and Gabe chat with Adam and lift the lid on DuraBar, a lightweight, non-corrosive reinforcement that often beats steel on handling and cost, along with reusable formwork, fibreglass edge boards, tying guns, and the curing/finishing products that save hours when labour is tight.  It’s practical sustainability backed by real-world support: think pre-dawn demos, a Knowledge Hub with specs and EPDs, and distribution through Bowens/Mitre 10 so the gear actually lands where and when you need it. Architectural concrete also takes centre stage. We talk mixes, timing, tools and training that lift your finish and protect margins, plus how consistent pricing and sensible logistics help crews quote with confidence. The through-line? A culture of “listen → act → support” that turns innovation into everyday wins on site. Key takeaways: Adopt GFRP early: lighter handling, reduced corrosion risk, simpler logistics, strong sustainability story — and compelling economics.Invest in time-savers: tying guns, reusable boards, and fit-for-purpose curing/finishing products pay for themselves in labour saved.Upskill for architectural work: hands-on learning beats textbook theory; short courses can lift your finish fast.Systemise supply: leverage resellers, plan ahead, and use consistent pricing to protect margins on quoted jobs.Culture matters: a contractor-first partner who’ll show up on site can be the difference between “salvaged” and “re-pour”.If this episode sparks ideas, LV Membership turns them into momentum: hands-on masterclasses, a trusted peer network, exclusive partner offers, and practical resources to help you work smarter (and win better jobs), all under one banner you can stand behind.  Ready to level up your landscaping business? Join the LV community and put these tools, training and connections to work on your next project.   🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes. 👁️‍🗨️ About Kerolos Kodous & Gabe Lucas Website: www.madewellproducts.comGlass Fiber vs. Steel Rebar Savings EstimatorFacebook: Madewell Products AustraliaInstagram: @madewell_productsLinkedIn: Madewell Products, Kerolos KodousGot a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message! The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Landscaping Victoria brings you the latest in landscaping news, trends, and ideas by sharing some stories from people within the industry to help make your landscaping career a little easier. 

Information

  • Creator
    Landscaping Victoria
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    129
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Landscaping Victoria Incorporated
  • Show Website
    The Front Garden

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