The HMAA held its AGM online on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. The Executive Committee for 2025-2026 was elected. While seven members stood for re-election, two new members joined the committee, which has representation from each state. David Furness from Queensland stepped down. Judy Horton thanked him for his contribution and welcomed the new members Kate Wall and Ash Walker.
2025-2026 HMAA committee
- President Judy Horton (NSW)
- Vice-President Jennifer Stackhouse (TAS)
- Secretary George Hoad (NSW)
- Treasurer Annette Irish (QLD)
Committee members
- John Colwill (WA),
- Dianne Hall (SA),
- Chloe Thomson (VIC),
- Ash Walker (NSW),
- Kate Wall (QLD)
Coming up in 2026
The first task for the committee will be to review membership fees. The committee’s recommendation will be put to a Special General Meeting in February 2026. The committee is also organising The Laurels for 2026, which will be held in Adelaide to coincide with the Royal Adelaide Show in early September. The Awards Dinner will be held at Carrick Hill on September 3. A garden tour and a cocktail party to celebrate the opening of the Royal Adelaide Show are also being offered to HMAA members (details to be confirmed).
The Laurels dinner also coincides with other horticultural events including the Australian Institute of Horticulture conference. Set aside September 3-4, 2026 (or longer) to visit Adelaide in spring. Judy thanked Dianne Hall, who represents the HMAA Committee on ‘The Laurels Subcommittee’ in Adelaide and is seeking sponsorship for the event.
The President’s and Treasurer’s reports are available on the HMAA website. Members need to login to view the AGM papers.
HMAA will continue to host webinars and circulate horticultural news via The Blast each Friday and on the HMAA website with plans in the pipeline for activities in 2026.
