LIAWA’s bold-shift is paving the way to progress and success through a newly appointed board of industry leaders and a focused strategy. The Landscape Industries Association of Western Australia (LIAWA) is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation, fuelled by a commitment to elevate professionalism and operational excellence. LIAWA is set to deliver even greater value to its members, ushering in a promising future.
Board members During the August AGM, LIAWA unveiled its new board, comprised of distinguished industry leaders: Darren Seinor, President and Owner of Garden Solutions, known for his horticultural expertise as ‘the 6PR Garden Guru’; Nathan Phillips from Landscape Elements; Grahame Houston of Skyline Landscape Services; Lisa Hall, a respected Senior Lecturer at TAFE; Joshua O’Keefe from The Greenscape Collective; and Stacey Shepherd, HR Consultant and Southwest Regional representative.
It’s an impressive team.
The addition of two highly qualified professionals specialising in finance, risk, and governance, and media, communication and events, further bolsters the board’s capabilities. A pivotal focus for LIAWA is sustainability and financial stability, a departure from the past’s uncertainty. With a clear strategy in place, the board is determined to build reserves and explore new revenue streams, ensuring the association’s long-term success.
Building an industry future
Recognising the significance of welltrained and skilled employees in propelling businesses forward, LIAWA is actively exploring staff-augmentation services for its members. The industry has faced challenges due to a scarcity of adequately qualified personnel, hindering its growth potential. LIAWA is taking a proactive approach by engaging with various educational bodies to foster relationships with international students. These students, equipped with expertise in diverse disciplines like engineering, project management, marketing, finance, and team leadership, are eager to infuse the landscaping industry with fresh perspectives and invaluable contributions.
Beyond member-centric initiatives, LIAWA plays an active role in shaping the industry’s future through its representation on South Metropolitan TAFE’s Industry Advisory Group. Providing valuable feedback on local landscaping industry needs related to design, construction, and maintenance, LIAWA actively contributes to the industry’s advancement.
Opportunities
LIAWA’s inclusiveness and support for its community are evident in its warm welcome to new members and sponsors. Recently, Thorne Landscaping won the LIAWA member raffle and received EV equipment from Farm and Turf Equipment – WA, showcasing the association’s commitment to fostering camaraderie and collaboration among members.
Excitement continues to build as LIAWA unveils its future programs, projects, and events. Special events catered exclusively for owners and managers, such as the August 31st Commercial Owners Long Lunch, offer invaluable networking opportunities. The Trade Night, hosted by Hunter Industries on September 7th at Perth City Farm, will be a vibrant networking event featuring various landscaping suppliers displaying their products and services.
Moreover, for designers, LIAWA welcomes a collaboration with Boffin Books to present Paul Bangay’s landscape design presentation in November 2023. Added to this, business forums, and events focused on mental health, occupational safety, team building, and leadership development promise valuable insights for members. The association also eagerly anticipates organizing a family day, inviting venue suggestions from its members.
Addressing vital environmental concerns, LIAWA takes Waterwise training to regional areas, empowering landscapers with essential knowledge. Educational forums and workshops will further equip aspiring waterwise landscapers and garden designers.
Gratitude is expressed to LIAWA’s partners, sponsors, and trade suppliers, who have played an integral role in the association’s growth and success. Notably, Water Corporation, Benara Nurseries, Hunter Industries, Frenchams Nurseries, The Lawn Doctor and others have contributed significantly to shaping LIAWA into a proud professional body.
A bright future
LIAWA’s bold shift towards sustainability, professionalism, and enhanced value for its members signifies the association’s unwavering commitment to driving progress and success in the landscaping industry. Guided by its visionary board, innovative programs, and steadfast partnerships, LIAWA is poised to shape the landscape of Western Australia’s landscaping industry, forging a path to a bright and prosperous future.
If you’d like to learn more, please contact Christine Stanton, Executive Officer at liawaexec@landscaping.net.au or call 0497 120 519, or log on to landscaping.net.au.
