Horticulture students visit Government House gardens

The visit provided the Certificate III in Horticulture (AHC30722) students with a unique opportunity to experience the management of one of Queensland’s most significant heritage landscapes and to learn about the diverse operations required to maintain the estate’s extensive gardens and grounds.

Students were privileged to be hosted by Richard Symonds (Horticultural Coordinator), Paul Hoffmann (Director of Operations), and Matthew Newton (Horticulturist), with additional support from volunteer guides Rob Cochrane and Gary Pember.

The team generously shared their knowledge of the estate’s history, plant collections, horticultural operations, and the specialised skills required to manage a heritage-listed property of this scale and significance.

A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to meet Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland.

Students gained firsthand insight into the management of the Government House estate, learning about heritage tree maintenance, sustainable landscape practices, seasonal planting programs, arboriculture, and the ongoing work required to preserve gardens of historical and cultural importance.

The estate features a rich collection of mature trees, ornamental gardens, bushland areas, annual flower displays, and expansive lawns that contribute to its heritage value, biodiversity, and visual appeal.

The excursion also provided valuable career insights. Richard, Paul and Matthew shared their personal career journeys and offered practical advice about working in the horticulture industry.

Students learned about the diverse career pathways available, the importance of gaining hands-on experience, and the value of developing strong technical skills, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a genuine passion for plants and landscapes.

Their advice encouraged students to explore the broad range of opportunities available in horticulture, from landscape maintenance and arboriculture to public gardens, conservation, and estate management.

The experience left a lasting impression on students, many of whom described it as one of the most enjoyable and educational excursions they have attended.

Jax, one of our students, rated the visit “10/10” and said they would recommend it to anyone interested in Brisbane’s rich history and impressive gardens:

“Although the heritage-listed Government House is indeed impressive, my true interest lies in the garden tour, and it didn't disappoint. Respect to our tour guides, especially the horticulture team, who took time out of their busy maintenance schedules to provide an informative and educational tour,” said Jax.

Students were fascinated by the diversity of the estate’s landscapes.

They learned that a new rose bush is planted to commemorate each Governor’s service and explored beautifully maintained display gardens, heritage trees, bushland areas, and self-sustaining rainforest plantings. 

The horticulture team explained how different areas of the estate require specialised maintenance approaches and long-term planning to ensure their ongoing health and presentation.

Na Cheng reflected on the outstanding condition of the gardens:

“When we arrived, I was amazed by the stunning views: the soft, tidy lawns without a single weed, the vivid garden beds filled with hundreds of flowers even though it is winter, and the huge, tall trees that had been pruned so perfectly,” said Na.

“As a horticulture student, I know that all of this must have been achieved through great skills, careful planning and a lot of hard work.”

She added that learning about the history, plant selection, and maintenance practices behind the gardens was particularly valuable and expressed appreciation for the guidance and generosity of the horticulture team and volunteers.

Student Mai also highlighted the educational value of the experience:

“The tour of Government House, Queensland, was a valuable and enjoyable experience for me as a horticulture student. It was great to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the grounds and landscapes around the estate are maintained.”

“The horticulture team shared their knowledge and experience on caring for the rose beds, annual flower displays, ancient jacarandas, bushland and lawns. It was especially interesting to learn that each area requires a different approach and level of maintenance,” Mai explained.

Mai noted that meeting Her Excellency made the day even more memorable and that seeing classroom concepts applied in a real working environment provided a deeper understanding of professional horticulture and the planning, expertise and dedication required to maintain such a beautiful and historic estate.

For many students, the tranquil pond area was a particular highlight. The magnificent weeping tea-tree draping gracefully over the water created a peaceful setting that felt far removed from the surrounding city and showcased the beauty that thoughtful landscape design can achieve.

The excursion provided an outstanding opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, gain valuable industry knowledge, and develop a deeper appreciation for Queensland’s horticultural heritage.

Students extend their sincere thanks to Richard Symonds, Paul Hoffmann, Matthew Newton, Rob Cochrane, Gary Pember, and the entire Government House team for their hospitality, expertise, and generosity in providing such a rewarding educational experience.