From an early age, Timothy Spurling has been fascinated by the environment. Growing up in northern South Australia where summer temperatures reached 45 degrees celsius and the annual rainfall was less than 14 centimetres, Timothy became fascinated with what would grow in arid environments. At the same time he was tantalised by books about gardening in temperate climates and videos showing luscious gardens in Europe.
Qualification: Certificate III in Horticulture
Employer: Botanic Gardens of South Australia
Training provider: TAFE SA
From an early age, Timothy Spurling has been fascinated by the environment. Growing up in northern South Australia where summer temperatures reached 45 degrees celsius and the annual rainfall was less than 14 centimetres, Timothy became fascinated with what would grow in arid environments. At the same time he was tantalised by books about gardening in temperate climates and videos showing luscious gardens in Europe.
Accepting the traineeship offered by the Botanic Gardens of South Australia was Timothy’s opportunity to make these images real and to be immersed in a world of exotic and rare plants.
Timothy has thoroughly enjoyed his three year traineeship. He has benefited from hands on learning in public gardens and mentoring by experienced people willing to share their vast plant knowledge and experience.
Now a qualified horticulturalist, Timothy is committed to implementing environmentally sustainable practices and hopes to mentor others in the industry.