Interior Plantscape Association, Board of Directors have been working extremely hard over the past few months planning and organising Connect, Discover, Thrive, inspiring a growing industry Conference which was held in March at the historic Rendezvous Hotel, Melbourne.
Feedback from the conference has been overwhelmingly positive with many delegates commenting on the inspiring speakers who gave their time and knowledge so generously. I personally enjoyed the networking opportunities, plant people really are a friendly bunch!
It was wonderful to finally meet many members and non-members after so many emails back & forth. As Alan Marion of Trainex Systems shared with us in his Marketing presentation; ‘nothing beats meeting face to face.’
One of the many highlights of the conference was our Keynote speaker, Kathy Fediw, Interiorscape Consultant, who travelled from the USA. Kathy is certainly an educator and informative speaker on all the topics she presented at the conference. Her presentations were inspiring, fun, educational and delegates came away with notes, tips and information that they could apply immediately to their business.
Another highlight for me was finally meeting Dr Margaret Burchett from the University of Technology Sydney. Dr Burchett has been instrumental in the research on the many benefits of indoor plants.
A conference highlight for me was the opportunity to meet two renowned industry figures, Kathy Fediw (USA) & Dr Margaret Burchett.
A huge thank you to our sponsors and exhibitors! The conference would not have been as successful without the generous support of The Container Connection, Hort Journal Australia, Biemond Nurseries, Martin Kellock Pots and Planters, Just Add Plants and Pohlmans Nursery. I encourage everyone to contact our sponsors and exhibitors as they are all keen to show you their products and latest trends!
Last but certainly not least, a big thank you to the delegates who attended and enthusiastically participated in all aspects of the program. You should be commended for taking time out of the daily tasks of running your business to attend Connect, Discover, Thrive 2017 Conference. Stepping back and immersing yourself in fresh ideas and networking with like-minded people is an ideal way to gain some inspiration, perhaps a fresh perspective and to get excited about all of the opportunities that are currently available.
If you have any suggestions for future events please feel free to contact me or one of the board members!
Nerida Hills
IPA President