EWHA’s Reconnect Brunch at Bay Road Cafe kicked off 2026 in style, bringing together women across horticulture for a vibrant morning of conversation, connection and new ideas. Set in a relaxed café setting, the event was filled with energy, warmth and a strong sense of community as members reconnected and welcomed new faces into the group.
Like many of us, Pia’s career path ended up in the plant world, far from where it began. Though her studies and employment were in the allied area of sustainability, she soon realised that life in an office wasn’t for her.
Now she has fully embraced horticulture, both studying and working in the sector.
And she’s not one to stand still: she will be exhibiting a garden at MIFGS in 2026, has already featured as a commentator on the 3CR Gardening programme, and she has a side-line in photography!
Set above the streets of Manhattan, the High Line transforms a disused railway into a layered garden of grasses, perennials and seasonal colour. From late-summer asters to unexpected woodland pockets and subtle water features, it showcases how thoughtful planting can reimagine urban space into something immersive and memorable.
From a childhood spent among mango trees, millet fields and a beloved pet goat in rural India, to leading-edge research protecting Australia’s nut industries, Dr Stella Antony’s horticultural journey is one of deep connection, quiet courage and intellectual rigour. A walnut grower, plant pathologist and passionate advocate for sustainable orchards, Stella brings together lived experience on the land with world-class science – proving that horticulture is not just something we do, but something we carry with us, wherever we grow.
An inspiring evening of connection, recognition and industry leadership, EWHA’s Celebration Dinner 2025 brought members together to celebrate women shaping the future of horticulture.
Those of us who braved the cool and rainy weather to visit Verdicus garden in Tylden were treated to a special small group tour by Bruce and Keith, the owners of Verdicus.
An engaging behind-the-scenes visit to Collectors Corner Rare Plant Nursery in Braeside, where EWHA members explored specialty plants, gained practical orchid repotting insights, and connected through shared horticultural expertise.
Isabelle is a great example of how with determination and talent someone can start out on the bottom rung of an organisation and rise to a managerial role in a short time. In her case she is now Production Supervisor at Haars Nursery. This year she won the Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria Young Leader of the Year award. Well done!