MEET THE JUDGES FOR ROUND TWO
30 Mar 2023
Meet the expert judges panel for this year’s Husqvarna Champion of Champions: Australian Landscaper of the Year. From expert horticulturists to landscape designers, this panel of judges selected from each state and territory come with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the exterior works industry and will use their expertise to decide who takes this year’s crown.

Martin Elton, MLSA Vice President (SA)
Vice President of MLSA, Martin Elton is the newest judge from South Australia. Director of Elton Landscapes since 2016 and working in the landscape industry since 2001, Martin has gained a wealth of experience across a variety of landscape projects throughout the residential and commercial sectors and will be an asset to the judge’s panel.
Lisa Hall, Horticulturist and Landscape Designer (WA)
From Western Australia, qualified horticulturist and landscape designer, Lisa Hall is the latest judge to the Husqvarna Champion of Champions panel. Lisa brings with her almost a decade of design and green infrastructure expertise, most notably her experience with vertical gardens and green facades. Her career as lecturer at South Metropolitan TAFE teaching horticulture, landscape construction and landscape design skills will be a valuable contribution to the judges panel.
Michael Ryan (QLD)
Back for round two, Michael Ryan from Queensland is returning for his second year on the judge’s panel. Michael has many decades of experience in landscape architecture, architecture, project management, construction management, research-based design and disabled-access assessment and we are glad for his return on this year’s judges panel.
Matt Leacy, Landscape Architect (NSW)
Alongside Michael, landscape architect Matt Leacy from New South Wales is returning for his second year on the judge’s panel. With more than 20 years’ experience in design, construction and maintenance services across landscaping and pool installation for both residential and commercial properties, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the judges panel.
Anthony Scott, Landscape Designer and Builder (VIC)
Victoria’s latest judge to the panel is landscape designer and builder, Anthony Scott. Anthony has over 25 years’ experience designing and building landscape projects both in Victoria and interstate. With an emphasis on producing high-quality space with a personal touch. Anthony has proven that with well-considered planning and experienced management, even the most difficult sites can be conquered with outstanding results and will bring this knowledge to the panel.
Nicole Mulloy, ODS Editor
Our very own Nicole, Editor of Outdoor Design Source joins this wonderful panel of judges. Having been in this position for over six years, Nicole has extensive knowledge and understanding of the everchanging landscaping and environmental sectors. Nicole’s experience in the commercial and domestic realms give her a solid perspective of the year’s best entries.
Vienna Spence, Husqvarna Australia Marketing Manager – SPONSOR
Vienna is a leading marketing manager at Husqvarna Australia. Her extensive expertise in project management, marketing strategy, planning and team mentorship make Vienna an innovative voice on the judging panel.
Matthew Richardson, Grillex National Sales Manager – SPONSOR
Matthew joined the Grillex team in 2020 with already 11 years of experience in the park infrastructure industry. His expertise has supported the development of multiple iconic Australian open spaces. His extensive knowledge will not be looked passed on this star-studded panel.
David Blackman, DECO Australia National Sales Manager – SPONSOR
David is a leading national sales manager for DECO Australia and has over 25 years’ experience in the building and design industry. Previously owning his own building hardware store, David has worked across all areas of the building industry and bring his knowledge of the industry to the panel.
With some familiar faces returning and a few new experts to the panel, this year’s judges are more than ready to start voting to find the most impressive commercial and residential projects from the latest crop of entrants. Find our more about our industry-leading panel of judges at landscaperoftheyear.com.au/our-judges
Don’t forget, public voting is now open. So, take a look at all the incredible projects up for the crown this year and vote.
View this year's entrants at landscaperoftheyear.com.au and start voting!