We Celebrate Our AIH Heroes
Like all well-established organisations, guilds and Institutes, AIH has its own ‘Horticulture Heroes’ who have earned their coveted position in the AIH Hall of Fame.
These are professionals who have been involved in Institute management, development and operations and have made significant contributions to the profession.
AIH Hero Awards
Every year the Australian Institute of Horticulture hold its Annual National Awards and Dinner where a variety of awards are presented. There are 2 significant Hero awards, the Golden Wattle Award and the Silver Gum Award.
View the AIH 2019 Annual Award Winners.
Golden Wattle Award
The Award is presented to an horticulture professional whose practice in the opinion of the National Executive has advanced the objectives as set down by AIH and the profession of horticulture.
Acacia pycnantha – or the Golden Wattle – was commissioned by AIMS Pty Ltd who continues to be the sponsor since inception of the award.
All received this penultimate award for their unfaltering contributions to the profession.
The awardees hold a unique presence in the horticulture profession. Their hard work, innovative approach and dedication to horticulture have made their efforts successful in advancing the profession, increasing recognition of gardening to the public and enhancing horticultural events in various forums.
Nominations for an outstanding horticulturist for the Golden Wattle Award are called each March for consideration by the National Executive for awarding at the Annual Awards Night usually in November.
Golden Wattle Award Winners
2019
Costa Georgiadis
MAIH RH
2018
Annette McFarlane
2016
Jane Edmanson
2015
Peter Cundall
2014
Graham Ross
MAIH RH
2013
Wes Fleming
of Fleming Nurseries
2012
Judy Horton
OAM, MAIH RH
2011
Colin Campbell
the late
2010
Don Burke
OAM, FAIH RH
Silver Gum Award
Fashioned after the flowers and buds of the Eucalyptus crenulata (Silver Gum), the award was commissioned by Horticultural Training in recognition of a Past President’s dedicated and committed representation on behalf of AIH.
In 2015 the award was redefined with a new criteria for outstanding industry commitment.
Silver Gum Award Winners
2019
Wayne Van Balen
MAIH RH
Immediate Past President
2018
Michael Jeffery
Major General, The Honourable
2017
The Diggers Garden & Environment Trust (VIC)
2016
Rod Drew
2015
Neville Passmore
FAIH RH
2014
Annette Irish
FAIH RH, CPH
President 2012 – 2014
2012
Kim Morris
FAIH RH
President 2008 – 2012