Ironwood Celebrates Outstanding Success at the 2025 NGISA Awards

Ironwood Institute is proud to celebrate an exceptional evening at the 2025 Nursery & Garden Industry South Australia (NGISA) Awards of Excellence, held at The Stamford Grand in Glenelg.

It was a night of celebration for our students, our industry partners, and for Ironwood itself.

Ironwood Institute was proudly awarded Best Allied Trader Service Provider, and three of our students received Horticulture Student of the Year, Trainee of the Year, and Emerging Leader of the Year awards for 2025.

This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to partnering with the horticulture industry to foster a culture of lifelong learning and to build a skilled, sustainable workforce across South Australia.

We remain dedicated to delivering high-quality on-campus and on-the-job training, and to working closely with horticulture enterprises, schools, and local councils. This achievement is a testament to our continued focus on strengthening the industry—supporting growth, professionalism, and long-term sustainability across both metropolitan and regional communities.

We are incredibly proud to congratulate our outstanding students on their well-deserved recognition at the NGISA Awards.

Cilla graduated with a Certificate III in Horticulture in 2025 and is now thriving at Adelaide Plant Growers as a nurseryperson. She also continues to support students at Ironwood as a tutor. Cilla is building a strong and meaningful career in horticulture, and her passion for the industry—along with her commitment to mentoring others—makes her a valued team member and a wonderful ambassador for the profession.

Ellie works at Jungle in Willunga and has embraced the industry with energy and excellence, stepping confidently into a leadership role. She is currently pursuing the Diploma of Horticulture Management through a traineeship. This award reflects not only her success in her traineeship, but also her genuine dedication to strengthening the nursery industry.

James’ natural curiosity and broad horticultural knowledge make him both an exceptional trainee and a valued asset to Adelaide Tree Farm. He is currently pursuing a Certificate III in Horticulture through a traineeship. Through hands-on involvement in large planting projects and active participation in industry events, he continues to deepen his expertise and contribute positively to the sector.

These awards recognise not only individual achievement, but also the strength of training, mentoring, and industry collaboration within South Australia’s nursery and garden community. We are immensely proud of the professionalism, dedication, and growth these students demonstrate every day.

We were proud to celebrate alongside some of the industry’s greats. 🌿 Congratulations to all 2025 winners.

We also warmly congratulate the other award recipients announced on the night:

It was a wonderful evening celebrating alongside industry legends, colleagues, and friends. The awards highlight the strength, innovation, and professionalism within South Australia’s nursery and garden sector.

Ironwood is proud to play a role in shaping the next generation of industry leaders, and we look forward to continuing to support excellence across our sector.