Woodlands, Queensland, Australia
Over the past 15 years, I have built a career in the horticultural industry with a focus on Parks and Gardens, particularly within Botanic Gardens, Open Spaces, and Cemetery landscapes. My work has centred on enhancing and maintaining these essential green spaces through the development of procedural frameworks and robust horticultural asset management databases. I have designed and implemented comprehensive maintenance programs tailored to a wide range of plant species and garden environments. My expertise includes garden bed design that integrates both visual appeal and ecological function. I have also contributed to plant identification and the creation of regional species guides for the Mackay Central Coast Bioregion, deepening my understanding of local flora and ecosystems. My operational management experience spans daily logistics in public landscapes and the oversight of production nurseries, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality plant stock for landscaping projects. By streamlining processes and introducing efficient systems, I have supported improved workflows, budget control, and team performance. Professional development remains a core priority in my work. I actively engage with current research in horticulture and regularly mentor emerging professionals in the field. Collaborating with peers across the sector has broadened my perspective and supported the development of innovative solutions for managing urban green spaces. I am also committed to community engagement and public education. Through participation in outreach programs, I have promoted local stewardship and appreciation for parks and gardens. My involvement in ecological restoration projects has contributed to landscape rehabilitation and native species conservation, often integrating educational components to inspire broader community support. In summary, my career reflects a commitment to advancing horticulture through strong leadership, informed design, and community collaboration, always with a focus on sustainability and the long-term health of our natural environments.
As an Urban Forest Project Officer, my role is to support the planning and delivery of the Council’s urban forest and park strategies. I work closely with the Urban Forest Policy Officer and the Parks Strategy team to help manage and protect our region’s tree canopy. This includes assessing tree removal applications, contributing to the development of key management plans, and capturing data to better understand tree performance and forest health across urban areas. A significant part of my job involves fieldwork, including conducting inspections, evaluating developer-contributed trees, and collecting data to update the Council’s tree asset inventory. I also assist in monitoring compliance with approved tree removals and help guide the use of compensation funds to ensure any loss to the urban forest is effectively offset. I support the development of plans for managing tree diseases, such as Phytophthora, and contribute to veteran tree and street tree master plans by reviewing species lists and planting layouts. Beyond the technical work, I value building strong relationships with internal teams, developers, and community stakeholders to promote good urban forest outcomes. I also conduct research and contribute ideas that shape practical strategies for tree retention, protection, and rehabilitation. I take pride in playing a key role in maintaining a healthy, resilient, and sustainable urban forest that supports the well-being and livability of our community.
This position plays a crucial role in overseeing the daily operations of the Queens Park Botanic Gardens, which encompasses a diverse array of plant collections and horticultural displays. The responsibilities include a variety of tasks such as gardening, technical horticulture, annual plant care, and the maintenance of specimen trees. Additionally, it involves conducting plant diagnoses to ensure the health and vitality of the flora. A key aspect of this role is the meticulous attention given to the preparation and upkeep of the annual Carnival of Flowers, a significant event that takes place each spring. This celebration of blooms not only showcases the gardens’ vibrant collections but also serves as an important community event that attracts visitors from near and far. Ensuring the gardens are at their best year-round is essential for creating a stunning display during this festive occasion.
Responsible for overseeing three key regional portfolios across the towns of Dysart, Clermont, and Middlemount. The role encompassed the strategic management and operational delivery of Parks and Gardens, Cemeteries, Sporting Precincts, Playgrounds, and associated Parks Infrastructure. This position required strong leadership, coordination, and planning to ensure the effective maintenance, presentation, and enhancement of community assets across multiple localities.
Responsible for the strategic coordination and operational management of open space assets across the Narrabri and Bellata townships, ensuring safe, attractive, and sustainable public environments. The role oversees the planning and delivery of programs covering street tree maintenance, turf management, cemeteries, township parks and gardens, and roadside vegetation control. Key responsibilities include managing structured street tree maintenance programs to support canopy health, safety, and renewal; implementing best-practice turf maintenance across sporting fields, parks, and verges; and ensuring cemetery operations meet community expectations and legislative standards. Oversight of township parks and gardens includes horticultural displays, garden bed maintenance, seasonal planting, and asset renewal to enhance amenity and civic pride. Roadside vegetation is managed through targeted mowing, slashing, and weed control to balance safety, presentation, and environmental outcomes. Leading a multidisciplinary team of 5–9 staff and coordinating up to six contractors, the Coordinator fosters a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. Responsibilities include workforce planning, mentoring, and contractor performance management to deliver efficient and high-quality outcomes. The role contributes to operational planning, budgeting, and asset management strategies while ensuring compliance with council policies, safety standards, and environmental regulations. Through collaboration with internal stakeholders, community groups, and management, the position supports strategic objectives for the sustainable management and enhancement of open spaces across both townships.
This role provides leadership and operational oversight for a team of eight Horticulturalists responsible for the maintenance, presentation, and enhancement of Mackay’s two premier public gardens — the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and Queens Park Heritage Gardens, which include the Arboretum and Palmetum collections. The position ensures the delivery of high-quality horticultural standards across diverse plant collections and heritage landscapes, aligning all activities with Mackay Regional Council’s operational frameworks and strategic goals. Responsibilities include coordinating daily operations, setting work priorities, and supporting staff development to foster excellence in plant care, landscape presentation, and visitor experience. A key component of the role involves liaison, coordination, and supervision of contractors, ensuring works across the botanic precincts are delivered safely, efficiently, and to specification. This includes procurement input, contract compliance, and quality assurance of external works such as specialist arboriculture, irrigation, and landscape services. The Coordinator leads the continuous improvement of botanic collections through the implementation and review of Site Management Plans, ensuring plantings reflect design intent, ecological integrity, and interpretive value. The role also develops and refines Integrated Plant Management Plans (IPMPs), applying sustainable horticultural practices, pest and disease management strategies, and targeted interventions to achieve desired outcomes for plant health and presentation. Working collaboratively with council officers, community partners, and volunteers, the position contributes to long-term planning, asset renewal, and the enhancement of the region’s premier horticultural destinations. This ensures the gardens remain vibrant, educational, and resilient landscapes that reflect Mackay’s botanical heritage and biodiversity.
Team Leader of Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
During the off-season, the Remote Caretaker is responsible for maintaining the Croc Tent site and ensuring a consistent on-site presence. The role focuses on preserving the condition and security of the property through regular inspections, cleaning, vegetation control, and minor repairs. It involves conducting preventative maintenance to keep facilities, structures, and equipment in good working order, while monitoring and reporting any significant issues requiring further attention. The caretaker also manages basic supplies and ensures the site remains prepared for the upcoming tourist season. Operating independently in a remote environment, the position upholds workplace health and safety standards and provides a reliable presence to deter unauthorised access and safeguard the site year-round.