The Front Garden

In this episode...

Host Chris Weiss (Formation Landscapes) is joined by Joel Emmins and Alex Gow from Complete Landscape Solutions to explore the evolution of a business built on strong values, steady growth, and supportive leadership.

From apprentice to designer, Joel Emmins’ landscaping journey is anything but ordinary. 

Joel shares his transition from landscape construction into design following a back injury, his current study of the Diploma of Landscape Design at Holmesglen, and what it was like to design and build an Achievable Garden at MIFGS. 

Alex reflects on the lessons learned after more than a decade in business, the importance of people-first hiring, and how Complete Landscape Solutions is empowering long-term staff to shape the future of the company.

Key takeaways:

• Why aligning design and construction under one roof can streamline projects and filter the right clients
• Joel’s insights into building a MIFGS garden while studying and working full-time
• How CLS built a business structure that supports career growth and staff retention
• Career pivots after injury
• The power of having early, honest conversations about budgets
• Tips for landscapers considering MIFGS or further study
• Why strong systems and great people are key to long-term success

Whether you're on the tools or leading a team, this episode offers real, relatable insights into building a business that lasts.

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🔎 About Joel Emmins, Alex Gow & Complete Landscape Solutions

• Website: clsolutions.com.au
• Facebook: Complete Landscape Solutions
• Instagram: @complete_landscape_solutions
• LinkedIn Joel Emmins and Complete Landscape Solutions

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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 succession planning. 

Samuel reflects on his recent 30-day LinkedIn posting challenge, how it helped unpack the All Green story, and why storytelling matters for business growth. They also chat about shifting market focuses, nurturing leadership within teams, the role of AI in horticulture, and what the future holds for All Green Nursery.

Key takeaways:
🌱 The power of family legacy in shaping a business
🌱 Transitioning from working in the business to working on the business
🌱 Embracing discomfort to build confidence and brand storytelling
🌱 Challenges of balancing retail and trade in a shifting market
🌱 The evolving role of leadership and succession planning in a family business
🌱 Opportunities for innovation while respecting tradition in horticulture

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👁️‍🗨️ About Samuel Fragapane

• Website: www.allgreen.com.au
• Facebook: All Green Nursery & Garden 
• Instagram: @allgreennurseryandgarden
• LinkedIn: Samuel Fragapane and All Green Nursery & Garden

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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, setting healthy work boundaries, and the importance of reusing materials and designing sustainably.

With honesty and insight, Jocelyn reveals the highs and lows of building a business with her partner Liam, why native planting inspires her, and why landscape design is as much about problem-solving as it is about creativity.

Key takeaways:

• The value of having in-house construction insight during the design process
• Why native planting and sustainability go hand in hand
• How to manage client expectations and screen for project fit early
• What it takes to prepare for (and survive) a MIFGS build
• Advice for other designers considering Boutique Gardens

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👁️‍🗨️ About Jocelyn Bennett

-        Website earthcorelandscapes.com.au

-        Facebook Earthcore Landscapes

-        Instagram @earthcorelandscapes

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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 navigating publishing setbacks and launching their own publishing house, this episode delves into their enduring commitment to better plant knowledge across the industry. 

They discuss the rising importance of biodiversity, plant selection pitfalls, and why they believe Plantology is the new go-to reference for professionals and passionate gardeners alike.

Key takeaways:

• Why right plant, right place is more than just a mantra; it's a necessity.
• How plant selection impacts the success of a garden long term.
• The behind-the-scenes challenges and triumphs of self-publishing a 3.5kg horticultural bible.
• What they really think about golden diosma and creeping jasmine.
• Why deeper plant knowledge benefits both pros and passionate gardeners. 

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👁️‍🗨️ About Lisa Ellis and Teena Crawford

• Website www.lisaellisgardens.com.au & barometerbooks.com
• Resource: Plantology: The Essential Guide to Better Gardens
• Facebook @lisaellisgardens & @BarometerBooks
• Instagram @lisaellisgardens  @teenacrawford_ @barometerbooks
• LinkedIn @Lisa Ellis & @Teena Crawford

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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 in Australia, why site prep is critical to long-term turf success, and how Coolabah Turf is tackling labour shortages and environmental pressures through clever technology and customer service. Dave also shares the behind-the-scenes work that goes into developing new turf varieties—and why the right grass in the right setting matters more than ever.

Plus, find out what makes Coolabah Turf more than just a supplier—from farm tours and trade days to hands-on support and good old-fashioned relationship building.

Key Takeaways:

• Automation is the future: robotic mowers, autonomous harvesting, and precision farming.
• Site prep matters: 70% of turf success is in the groundwork.
• Climate and water restrictions are pushing the development of smarter, more drought-tolerant turf.
• Coolabah’s customer service and culture are as important as product quality.
• The landscaper-supplier relationship thrives on clear communication and collaboration.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Dave Geltch & Coolabah Turf

• Website www.coolturf.com.au
• Coolabah Turf Blog
• Facebook @CoolabahTurf
• Instagram @coolabah_turf
• LinkedIn @David Geltch

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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 business owners alike can learn about grit, self-belief, and staying composed under pressure.

You’ll also hear Jamie's thoughts on learning from failure, dealing with tough feedback, and how high-performing individuals keep growing, even in the face of setbacks. 

Bonus: Jamie’s appearing at The Landscape Show 2025 with Anthony Koutoufides — so consider this your sneak peek!

Key takeaways:

• Why resilience starts with self-belief and taking ownership
• How elite sport teaches leaders to thrive under pressure
• The importance of feedback, vulnerability and staying adaptable
• Why discomfort can strengthen team bonds
• Lessons Jamie’s taking from sport into consulting, teaching and beyond

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👁️‍🗨️ About Jamie Young

• Website: www.jamie-young.com.au
• Resource: Blog
• Facebook: @JamieYoung21
• Instagram: @Jamie_Young21
• LinkedIn: @JamieYoung

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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 include using customer feedback, showcasing behind-the-scenes content, and leveraging AI tools correctly.

Plus, a sneak peek of what Sam will be covering at the LV Members' Breakfast at The Landscape Show!

Key Takeaways:

• Why "word of mouth" is great — but brand presence is what makes it stick.
• The importance of niche positioning and knowing your brand personality.
• Storytelling is the real secret to standing out and connecting with customers.
• Hyperlocal marketing, behind-the-scenes content, and authentic digital engagement are key trends for trades.
• How landscaping businesses can use AI without losing their human touch.
• Why customer feedback is your best untapped brand asset.
• Easy starting points for busy business owners to build brand momentum.

Want to see Sam live? She's joining us on stage at our exclusive LV Members' Breakfast before The Landscape Show. Visit thelandscapeshow.com.au for more information and tickets.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Samantha Tait

• Website: thinktanksocial.com.au
• Facebook: SamanthaJayneTait
• Instagram: @samanthatait_au
• LinkedIn: Samantha Tait, BRND Group, TTS Digital

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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, coming from different backgrounds but with a shared determination to grow. 

In this inspiring episode, Caitlin and Jess open up about navigating the challenges of being women in a traditionally male-dominated trade, the value of supportive mentors, and how hands-on experience is shaping their future.

Key takeaways:

• The real value of apprenticeships: learning by doing (and sometimes failing)
• Why plant knowledge is just as powerful as power tools
• How the industry is becoming more inclusive and supportive for women
• The power of good advice, good teams, and giving things a go
• Insight into career progression in both council and private landscaping work

Whether you’re an apprentice, mentor, or industry leader, this episode is a reminder of why supporting the next generation matters—and what it looks like when young professionals thrive.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Caitlin Sanderson and Jessica Whatnall

-        Website: Caitlin Sanderson Awards Profile – Landscaping Victoria

-        Website: Jessica Whatnall Awards Profile – Landscaping Victoria

-        LinkedIn: @Manningham Council and @Mark Gabell And Associates

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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 nearly 30 staff. 

He opens up about the importance of designing gardens that belong to their place, leading with values, and finding harmony between work and life. 

From staff retention to cash flow forecasting, Peter offers practical advice for landscaping professionals looking to build a sustainable business.

Key takeaways:

• The value of creating gardens that are deeply connected to their environment
• How Peter and Simone grew Ocean Road Landscaping organically with a clear focus on values and community
• Why strong leadership and trusting your team are crucial for long-term business success
• Tips on setting sustainable hourly rates and maintaining financial forecasting
• The importance of listening to clients and building lasting relationships across design, construction, and maintenance
• The beauty and challenges of working in coastal and Otway landscapes
• Peter’s dream project, and what he might be doing if he weren’t landscaping 

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👁️‍🗨️ About Peter Shaw

• Website: www.orl.com.au
• Ocean Road Landscaping Video Gallery
• Facebook: Ocean Road Landscaping
• Instagram @oceanroadlandscaping
• LinkedIn: Peter Shaw

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au

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.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Jane Jones

• Website: jjl.com.au
• Project Portfolio
• Facebook: Jane Jones Landscapes
• Instagram: @janejoneslandscapes

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 ShapeScaper, the Australian made modular steel garden edging and planter system, trusted by landscape professionals nation wide. 

Find your nearest stockist at shapescaper.com.au