Two years of learning, designing, creating and growing came together for one very special evening as London College of Garden Design Australia celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2026.
On Friday 30 October, students travelled from across Australia and New Zealand to gather at The Botanical in South Yarra, just a short distance from LCGD's home at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens.
For a group who have spent the past two years balancing their studies with work, family and everything else life brings, it was a wonderful opportunity to come together, reflect on how far they've come and celebrate earning their Diploma of Garden Design.
A night to celebrate
The evening brought together graduates, lecturers and members of the LCGD community for a celebration of the talent, commitment and friendships developed throughout the two-year Garden Design Program.
LCGD Australia Director Brent Reid led the formal proceedings, while fellow Director Andrew Fisher Tomlin joined the celebrations from London with a special video message for the graduates.
There was plenty of laughter, applause and, of course, photographs as students received their diplomas and celebrated with the lecturers who have guided and encouraged them throughout their studies.
Recognising outstanding achievement
Two special awards were presented during the evening, recognising both academic achievement and the qualities that make the LCGD community so special.
Student of the Year: Ebony Cetinich
Congratulations to Ebony Cetinich, who received the Student of the Year Award for achieving the highest overall marks across the Garden Design Program.
It's another wonderful achievement for Ebony, whose talent was also recognised earlier this year with a Gold Medal and Best Use of Plants award at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show for her Achievable Garden, Sunset over Salt Lake.
Nick Forde Spirit of the College Award: Learne Durrington
The Nick Forde Spirit of the College Award was presented to Learne Durrington, recognising the generosity, passion and contribution she has brought to the LCGD community.
This special award celebrates the spirit of collaboration and encouragement that plays such an important role in the college experience.
Both award winners also took home a wonderful collection of books, including signed copies of Diary of an English Garden by renowned garden designer Paul Bangay, Plantology by LCGD lecturers Teena Crawford and Lisa Ellis, and The Modern Professional Planting Designer by LCGD Director Andrew Fisher Tomlin.
A fitting collection of inspiration and knowledge to accompany them into their next chapter as garden designers. Congratulations to both graduates on these well-deserved honours.
For the Class of 2026, graduation marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Some will establish their own garden design businesses, others will pursue opportunities within the landscape industry, and all leave with new skills, knowledge and connections to take forward.
To our graduates, congratulations. We are incredibly proud of what you've achieved and can't wait to see the gardens, careers and opportunities that lie ahead.
And while the formal studies may be complete, you'll always be part of the LCGD alumni community.
Photography: Melissa Hobbs
Considering a career in garden design?
LCGD Australia's two-year Garden Design Program brings together creative design, planting knowledge, technical skills and practical experience, taught by leading industry professionals like Lisa Ellis. Whether you're considering a career change or looking to develop your existing interests into professional practice, we welcome enquiries about studying with us in 2027.
Explore the Garden Design Program and download the prospectus.
