2026 | Horticulture
“I believe that sustainable horticulture has an important role to play in the future, and I am excited to continue contributing to that journey through practical learning, curiosity and hands-on experience.”
I am nearing completion of my Parks and Gardens qualification at Macedon Nursery, where my love for horticulture has transformed from an interest into something much deeper that I hope to shape into a long-term career. My fascination with elderberry extends beyond horticulture, connecting plants with pollinators, food, herbal traditions and community wellbeing.
This scholarship will enable me to learn firsthand from established growers and professionals. I hope to develop practical skills, techniques and connections that I can bring back to Australia and use to support our emerging elderberry and elderflower industry.
I hope to travel to Canada to learn about passive solar greenhouse design in cold climates. I am particularly interested in solar gain, thermal mass, compost heating, protected cropping, propagation and cultivar selection, especially for elderberry. This experience would also guide the off-grid greenhouse my family and I are developing and help me contribute to sustainable food production and resilient horticulture in Australia.
“Malachi strikes me as a passionate person who would also gain from teaching other people. He shows strong leadership potential.”
- Assessor Panel