Our Values

I love listening to stories and learning from all directions, we are constantly adding, building, and growing. A few common favourite themes have emerged that I find important and I find I'm increasingly applying these in my work.

First Nations Acknowledgment

As we work this beautiful Country it's important to Acknowledge the First Nations communities that thrived here, living harmoniously in these rich and at times harsh landscapes. Gus's Gardens Acknowledges the Wadawurrung People, and Gulidjan and Gadubanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar, their Elders and leaders past, present and emerging as the Traditional Owners of the skies, land, waters and sea country across our region. We agree that sovereignty was never ceded, and that we must continue to listen, learn, and pay the rent whenever we can.

Music and Joy

I play saxophone in a 12 piece band called FOOLS. It brings me so much joy and is a big part of my life. I bring that joy into my work and if my energy and Landscapes can also bring you joy then to me that's a job well done!

INSTAGRAM

Sustainabilty and Biodiversity

We live in a wonderful part of the world with incredible natural landscapes and biodiversity. I like to encourage my clients and friends to be part of this and where possible share their homes with the nature around us. Planting native and indigenous species is great for biodiversity preservation - and we often find they out perform exotic introduced species.

Water is the one ingredient we all need to thrive, and that goes for our gardens too. I believe in sustainable use of the resources we have, so let's discuss your plan with this in mind!

Climate change

Climate Change is here. We are seing it in increased extreme weather events and changing seasons. Intelligent planting and landscaping can help weather those increasing extremes. We encourage increased mulching and exploring drought tolerant, native species that will keep your garden thriving through difficult conditions.

Resources

I have seen so much waste in my career. Old gardens completely scraped up and replaced. It's bad for the planet and your wallet. Let's get creative and explore how we can repurpose materials and resources on your site. We also use recycled and second hand materials that may have an interesting story to tell. Trading is also an option - you may have an old tree that is rotting and need removing that becomes a carved seat, or a log and habitat for creatures in another garden.

Permaculture

Permaculture is a design system for creating sustainable and regenerative environments by mimicking natural ecosystems and patterns. It focuses on designing systems that meet human needs while simultaneously benefiting the environment, emphasizing diversity, stability, and resilience.

It's also a great way to get some healthy yummy food on your table or to trade with the community!