Open to residents, schools and community groups across the North Sydney local government area, the annual competition celebrates the creativity, care and environmental stewardship behind the area's green spaces — no matter their size. With dedicated categories for balcony and courtyard gardens, apartment dwellers working with limited space and plenty of hard surfaces are just as much in the running as those with a sprawling backyard.
Open to gardeners of all experience levels, the competition shines a spotlight on the diverse ways people are transforming spaces across the North Sydney local government area.
This year's 11 categories span Balcony, Courtyard, Indoor and Children's Gardens, Most Beautiful Garden, Native Habitat Gardens and separate Edible Gardens prizes for private growers and community groups producing food together. The prestigious Lex and Ruby Graham prizes recognise individuals and groups beautifying public spaces, and gardeners can enter the same garden in more than one category.
Returning judge Judith Sleijpen will also present the Judge's Special Award for an entry showing exceptional creativity, innovation or excellence. She says the winning gardens will be the ones that spark joy.
"I'd love to know why your green space is important to you and if some plants bring you special times of enjoyment," Ms Sleijpen said.
First-time gardeners are especially encouraged to enter, with judges recognising gardens of every size and style. Winners will be announced at the Garden Competition Awards Ceremony on Friday 25 September, with prizes including gardening tools and other garden-themed rewards.
Key dates
Entries close: 28 August 2026
Judging: 7 to 17 September 2026
Awards Ceremony: 25 September 2026
Entry: Free, open to all gardeners in the North Sydney LGA.Gardens may be nominated in multiple categories - one entry per category, per garden.
