The collaboration between Phillip Withers, known for his breathtaking show gardens, and Fiona Brockhoff resulted in a masterpiece that highlights the importance of working with nature.
We were blown away attending Phillip Withers and Fiona Brockhoff’s ‘SaltBush’ garden exhibition at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show last week, it was truly inspiring! The sustainability aspect of the garden really resonated with me.
Named ‘SaltBush’, the garden spans 250 square meters and showcases the beauty of Victoria’s coastline and inland bush settings.
What amazed me most was their dedication to using indigenous plants from across Victoria, emphasizing their role in supporting local wildlife and increasing biodiversity. Over 3000 recycled or locally sourced plants, including moonah, grass tree, silver banksia, and yellow buttons, were carefully selected to create this immersive experience.
But it wasn’t just about the plants. The design incorporated sustainable practices throughout, from the recycled materials to the post-show repurposing of plants and materials on the Bellarine Peninsula. Even the construction process was impressive, with the garden being built in just 11 days.
Phillip Withers’ philosophy of working in harmony with nature truly shone through in ‘SaltBush’, earning it the well-deserved Gold Show Garden Award at MIFGS 2024.
This garden not only showcased exquisite design but also served as a reminder of our responsibility to care for and connect with our environment. Truly a remarkable experience!