I stumbled across some incredible 3D landscape design models on Instagram and reached out to Vedrana from Serbia and Emmanuel from the Philippines. In 2020, I found myself back at TAFE to learn to use SketchUp, but then COVID hit.ĭespite the challenges, I remained determined to introduce 3D computer-generated imagery and videos to clearly communicate the design vision. I began playing around with computer programs such as SketchUp to build 3D models, which was a fun but entirely new learning process. Some clients struggle with visualizing 2D (aerial) plans and elevation drawings, so I started bringing design ideas to life using 3D imagery and fly-through videos. I changed the name of the business to Outside In and leased a small studio on Canning Highway in Como.įocusing solely on landscape design since 2019 has given me opportunities to offer clients a better understanding of their projects. I made the decision to take on a managerial role in 2006, allowing me to focus on the design side of the business. However, the physical labour became quite intense, and the demand for more complex landscaping projects led to the need to employ qualified staff and form a network of contractors.Īs the business grew, so did my physical exhaustion levels, and I was unfortunately diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, skin cancer. The business gradually expanded from pulling weeds and raking leaves to soil preparation, reticulation, planting, and laying lawn. I invested every penny earned into purchasing equipment and eventually saved enough money to buy my beloved Izuzu 8ft tray back truck. I eventually started my own full-time business with an investment of $10 in 1996. The job started as a means to earn extra money, but soon, local residents took notice of my work, and my weekend calendar was full of bookings. To boost my income, I took an opportunity to work weekends maintaining a large garden at the home of a close school friend.

Working at the local garden centre ignited my eagerness to learn more, and I enrolled part-time at TAFE to obtain a Certificate in Horticultural and Landscape Design while continuing to work four days a week within the industry. I landed a job at a local garden centre, which evoked a sense of belonging and internal calmness that I had never experienced before. I returned to Perth with an empty pocket and a clear mind and knew that a career outdoors was calling me. With my dog by my side, I headed north and spent 6 months working in Darwin and another 12 months travelling around Australia, taking on odd jobs along the way. I developed mental health issues and knew I needed to make a change. Unfortunately, my experience took a traumatic turn when a notorious bank robber pointed a gun at my face. I made a career move to work at a bank, which turned out to be life-changing. Working nights in hospitality made me yearn for a more regular schedule that allowed me to have a social life again. One of my most memorable moments was working at the Rose Hotel, which later closed and turned into a medical centre. I found working in hospitality exciting and managed pubs and clubs in Perth and Fremantle. I got a job at a local book shop and moved out of my strict upbringing at 19. Although my dad was disappointed, I was relieved and eager to move on to the next chapter of my life.Īt 17, I worked full-time to save up for my first car and gain independence. By 16, I decided to give up basketball to relieve the immense pressure. High school was a struggle as I juggled basketball with my studies and dealt with bullying because of my severe cystic acne. My dad was the coach, and as a left-hander, I was always training and playing games. From the age of 12 to 16, basketball was my life.

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