The latest winners of the popular Nature Strip Showdown have been crowned, showcasing some of best nature strips in our region while illustrating the pride residents take in their gardens.
Mildura Rural City Council earlier this year once again called on residents to enter the competition, providing a fun way to get recognition for the hard work and time they put into their nature strips.
It was also an opportunity for some friendly competition amongst local 'green thumbs' while offering the chance to win prizes valued at $500.
Dozens of nominations were received across the district, with two winners, Mitch Coffey and Ross Griffiths, ultimately recognised.
Mr Coffey sowed Monaco Bermuda Couch into his lawn in March 2024 due to its water-efficiency. The result is a stunning front lawn that is also traffic and drought resistant.
"My wife and I moved to Mildura two years ago, and one of my must-haves was a home with a front lawn," Mr Coffey said.
"There's just no place better to grow lawns then here in Mildura."
My Coffey said the Nature Strip Showdown had proven a great opportunity to showcase the pride his entire neighbourhood take in their nature strips.
"We have a bit of friendly rivalry going, and it's a lot of fun," he said.
Mr Griffiths, meanwhile, was recognised for the time and effort put into his nature strip, which he dubbed "a very important part of our home."
"I saw the competition in 2024 but just missed the cut off for entries, so I was keen to have a go this year," Mr Griffiths said.
"I just love getting out there and gardening. My parents have always been keen gardeners and I'm the same.
"A bit of time, effort and pride makes all the difference."
Councillor for Environmental and Sustainability Jodi Ewings congratulated everyone who entered this year's competition, while acknowledging the 2025 winners.
"It was amazing to once again see the lengths our community go to ensuring their gardens are maintained," Cr Ewings said.
"All entrants expressed great pride in their nature strips, while also taking pride in the general appearance of their homes and gardens.
"It's hard work that doesn't go unnoticed, by locals and visitors alike.
"It also shows there are so many ways to look after your nature strips, such as avoiding parking cars on them, or planting hardy and drought-resistant plants and lawns, which are perfect for our climate."
Entries were judged by well-known community garden and tree-planting group Greening Mildura and their affiliates, who volunteered their time to select our winners.
Greening Mildura member, and one of the competition's judges, April Fuda, said her team had a difficult task given the quality of entries.
"It was wonderful to see the time and dedication residents put into their nature strips for this competition," Ms Fuda said.
"By taking pride in their nature strips and looking after them residents are not only adding value to their homes, they're contributing to the overall aesthetic of our streets.
"This in turn increases the general feeling of wellbeing in our community. Congratulations to the winners!"
Winners from received a $500 Mildura City Heart gift card for their efforts.
The Nature Strip Showdown will return in late 2025 – just in time for the new growing season, providing residents with another opportunity to showcase demonstrate their civic pride.
