Welcome from the Chairman
The Nursery Garden Industry of the Northern Territory is pleased to welcome all visitors, exhibitors and sponsors to the 2012 Tropical Garden Spectacular. The magnificent surrounds of the George Brown Darwin Botanical Gardens are the ideal place to ponder the theme of the event this year: "Grow, Enjoy, Sustain."
To help you solve this dilemma we have assembled a great program of talks and demonstrations along with a huge variety of exhibitors including progressive local businesses, Government agencies, community groups and not for profit organisations. We are very appreciative of the support we receive from all our sponsors in particular our principal partner the Northern Territory Government, as well as the City of Darwin, Power and Water Corporation, Charles Darwin University and Southern Cross Television. I would also like to extend my personal thanks to the Nursery and Garden Industry organising committee and our tireless executive officer, Jane Dellow.
It is a sad reality of current times that important issues, particularly those relating to sustainable living and the environment, are often highjacked by vested interests (at either end of the spectrum) or elements of the media who prefer sensationalism to informing and educating the public. Add to this the rise of poll-drived populist politics with its inevitable spin doctoring and you end up with mass frustration and confusion. Not here! This weekend we are offering inspirational ideas and practical solutions to living a more sustainable and healthy life. Also on offer is some great food, artwork, entertainment and of course the chance to take time out to relax and enjoy these beautiful surrounds.
For me, "Grow, Enjoy, Sustain" means adding indoor plants to the workplace, installing a potted herb garden on a balcony or a new vegie garden for home grown goodness. Whatever it is the Nursery and Garden Industry of the Northern Territory hope this weekend will help inform, educate and inspire you to move the pendulum in your life to a greener and healthier future. Enjoy!
