The Board

Ian Barker - President 

"As a past board member (2003-2007), I have experienced the satisfaction of helping shape the future direction of the industry we all work in. I was heavily involved with the team that made building registration for our sector a reality and one that I and others are immensely proud of.

In 35 years, I have watched this industry grow from being a cottage industry, to one that is now robust, professional, and expanding at an exponential rate. It is exciting to know that I might be able to assist to shape this change further now that I have a bit more time to give.

I also believe that my time as a business owner has taught me much. There have been many who assisted me along my path in business, so I hope to now pay some of that kindness forward."

Mathew Wandmaker  - Vice President

Mathew has been working in the Garden Maintenance industry for more than 15 years, having run multiple Jim's Mowing franchises, before branching out to run a very successful commercial grounds maintenance business throughout the Eastern and South eastern suburbs of Melbourne. He has a strong passion for the Garden Maintenance sector and gains a lot of satisfaction from helping those within this specific sector which is close to his heart.
"I  welcome the opportunity to join the LV Board to help become a voice for Garden Maintenance professionals and continue to help educate within this space, grow current and new Members and develop industry standards."

"My 15-year membership has provided me with many networking opportunities, as well as keeping me abreast of new products and trends in the industry. In addition, my membership has provided many opportunities to be involved in major events, such as numerous gardens at MIFGS, both with show gardens and mentoring.

I feel it is important that by being on the Board I can be there to support many members, especially other Landscape Designers who are small business owners just like me."

Gary Bond

Gary has been part of the industry since 2004 working for suppliers, commercial landscape companies, running his own small business and now as a shareholder in Landstruct.

"I'm blessed to be a part of a fantastic industry and am looking to bring my positivity, energy and enthusiasm to the board and help in any way I can to continue to grow Landscaping Victoria into the future."

Justin Hart 

Justin joins the Board with a focus to increase the involvement of women in the industry, having seen many benefits of doing so within his own business. He also wants to support the growth and legislation of industry standards, combining this with the recognition of qualifications achieved through formal training and the necessity for industry professionals to have these qualifications to perform certain projects. Justin's belief that greater recognition and participation of LV within the construction industry, especially with the relevant government authorities, aligns with the focus of past and current strategic goals. 

Paul Leesment

After guiding our Landscape Design & Construction business from strength to strength over the past two decades, I feel it's time to give back to the industry in any way I can.

My experience in developing business strategies and compliance, with proven systems & processes that deliver accountability, are worthwhile sharing with other like-minded driven business owners.

Through successfully developing a focused leadership program in my own company, I feel that my contribution to the board can assist in staying on mission and help shape the future

Nicole Semken

Nicole works in her family business, Semken Landscaping Pty Ltd. They take on projects from small domestic construction and maintenance jobs through to large commercial works, and have completed thousands of residential and commercial projects.

Ross Anderson

My roots in the landscaping industry run deep, beginning 23 years ago with a Horticulture and Landscaping apprenticeship, followed by a diploma in the field. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of applying my skills globally, working across Australia, Canada, the USA, and the UK.

Even when I transitioned to a supplier role several years ago, my passion for landscaping never wavered. The industry’s energy and growth overseas inspired me to join the British Columbia Landscape and Nursery Association (BCLNA), where I later served on the Board of Directors. In that role, I provided mentoring, leadership, and strategic planning to help shape the association’s vision and advance the industry as a whole. Collaborating with members, industry professionals, and government bodies was an incredibly rewarding experience.

Now back in Australia, I’m committed to continuing my contributions to the green industry as a member of the LV Board.