Jerry Coleby-Williams
Internationally Renowned Horticulturist, Pioneer of Sustainability and Organic Best Practice
One of Australia’s most well-known, most highly qualified and most respected gardening experts. With a career defined by a deep commitment to conservation, sustainability, and education, Jerry continues to inspire and engage audiences worldwide, making him one of Australia’s most sought-after horticultural speakers.
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With a lifelong passion for gardening, Jerry’s journey into the world of plants and horticulture began at the age of four, growing up in a family of farmers and gardeners. His formal training with the Royal Horticultural Society, combined with a management degree from Brunel University, laid the foundation for a career that would span continents and inspire generations.
Jerry’s work spans the globe, from his early career at the prestigious Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, to his horticultural consultancy for some of Australia’s most iconic botanic gardens. He was instrumental in the development of Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens, where his leadership transformed the gardens in preparation for the 2000 Olympic Games. His dedication to sustainable practices and education led to the creation of pioneering projects like the Rare and Threatened Plants Garden and the world’s first Wollemi Pine planting.
Throughout his career, Jerry has consulted on major environmental policies, including Queensland’s National Food Policy and Grey Water Policy, and contributed to significant garden renovations in Sydney. He’s also led international initiatives, including a successful gardening expo in Sydney, and delivered research and papers on sustainable gardening, food security, and climate resilience across the globe.
Jerry’s work extends beyond the gardens themselves—he is a renowned speaker, educator, and media presence. His long-running segments on Gardening Australia, his regular contributions to gardening magazines, and his widely listened-to radio shows have cemented his role as a key voice in horticultural education. Jerry has also delivered keynote addresses and presentations at conferences around the world, focusing on everything from sustainable food production to non-chemical pest control.
In addition to his consultancy work, Jerry is the creator of Bellis, a pioneering model for sustainable living and gardening that has inspired thousands. Bellis has become a model for climate-resilient gardens, navigating the challenges of extreme weather while feeding a household with an increasingly diverse garden.
A frequent traveler and botanical tour leader, Jerry shares his expertise and passion for plants through tours across Asia, Europe, and the Pacific, offering participants an inside look at the world’s most fascinating and diverse horticultural landscapes.
