Celebrating Long-Term Membership with TLA

In an interview with The Landscape Association NSW/ACT, Glenn Simpson, Founder and Director of Growth Civil Landscapes, reflects on the company's longstanding relationship with TLA, the value of being a part of a supportive professional network and why investing in industry connection continues to shape its' growth.

This feature appears on both the TLA website and in the March 2026 Newsletter.

Celebrating Long-Term Membership with TLA: Growth Civil Landscapes

1.    Tell us a bit about GCL

Growth Civil Landscapes is a multi-award-winning landscape construction and civil works company based in Sydney. Founded by Glenn Simpson, who brings more than 30 years of industry experience, the Company has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality public infrastructure across New South Wales.

The team specialises in projects of all scales, including large civil works, commercial landscape construction, playgrounds, recreational facilities, amenity buildings, streetscapes, bioretention basins, and public open spaces.

Growth Civil Landscapes delivers integrated civil and landscape solutions tailored to client needs. Through collaborative project teams, meticulous planning and strong technical expertise, the Company consistently delivers projects on time, within scope and to the highest standards.

Led by Glenn Simpson, whose lifelong passion for landscaping shapes the company’s culture and vision, the team is guided by core values of quality, growth and innovation, integrity and professionalism, and is proud to be transforming spaces and enriching communities as it continues to deliver landscapes and infrastructure that inspire and endure.

2.    When you first joined TLA, what were you hoping to get out of it?

Being part of The Landscape Association has always been about connection and giving back to the industry. When we first became involved, we were looking to gain support from the industry body, but also to be part of an Association where landscapers can support one another, share experiences, and build camaraderie within the profession. It’s not just about what you take from an association like TLA – it’s also about contributing and giving back, and providing as much as we gain, if not more.

My connection with the association goes back a long way. I actually attended the very first LNA Christmas party as a three-year-old, and have effectively been an unofficial member since working with my father from 1993, with our family heavily involved over the years. Because of that history, it’s important to us that the next generation is also involved – which is why we encouraged our sons who are a part of our Company to take part in TLA as well.

Being part of TLA for the past decade or so has provided valuable opportunities to stay connected with others in the industry, keep up to date with evolving standards and trends, and celebrate the achievements of the landscaping profession. It’s also been a great platform to share knowledge and recognise the quality work being delivered across our industry. Most importantly, it reinforces the idea that as an industry we’re stronger together – we have far more influence and impact as a collective than we do as individuals.

3.    What are the things that’s kept you connected with TLA over the years?

Staying connected with TLA over the years has largely been through the opportunities it creates to engage with others in the industry. Events such as the Landscape Excellence Awards, Landscape Expo and initiatives like Women in Landscaping are always enjoyable and provide a great chance to catch up with industry peers, share ideas and celebrate the profession.

In the past, there were more regular catch-ups/events within the industry, which were always well attended and enjoyable. It would be great to see more of those opportunities return, as they are a fantastic way for members to stay connected and continue building strong relationships within the landscaping community.

Alongside the events, the newsletters and updates from TLA help keep us informed about industry developments, emerging trends and the great work being delivered across the landscaping community.

4.    What does being part of the TLA community mean to you today?

Being part of the TLA community today means having a trusted industry body we can turn to for support, whether it’s guidance on industry standards, regulatory updates or navigating legal and business matters. It provides reassurance that there is a strong network behind us and a place to go for reliable information if needed.

Since joining TLA in December 2015, our Company has experienced significant growth. Throughout that time, TLA has been a constant presence – keeping us connected with the industry, providing relevant resources and insights, and supporting the ongoing professionalism of the landscaping sector. It’s valuable to know that as our business evolves, we remain part of a broader community working towards the same goal of strengthening and advancing the industry.

5.    What would you say to someone considering becoming a member?

Joining TLA provides a great sense of camaraderie within the landscaping industry. It creates opportunities to connect with other landscapers, share experiences, seek advice when needed and offer support to others. Being part of a strong industry network is invaluable, particularly when navigating challenges or looking for new ideas and perspectives.

For us, joining TLA was also about staying connected with the broader landscaping industry and contributing to raising standards across the sector. The Association provides valuable opportunities to learn from peers, networking, stay informed about industry developments and celebrate the outstanding work being delivered across the profession.

Being part of TLA reinforces that the industry is stronger when we collaborate and support each other; there is more power standing together than individually, and this should be embraced.

6.    Can you let us know about some of your recent projects that exceeded the clients expectations?

Proudly delivered for Wollondilly Shire Council, our Old Menangle School Site project has received significant recognition including the 2025 TLA Gold Excellence Award (Commercial & Civil Construction $1.5–$4M), NSW/ACT Park of the Year and Australian Park of the Year from Parks and Leisure Australia, plus a Highly Commended – Built Conservation award at the NSW National Trust Heritage Awards.

The Old Menangle School Site has been thoughtfully revitalised into a welcoming community destination that celebrates and preserves the site’s rich heritage. The project involved the careful restoration of the historic schoolhouse, ensuring its character and historical significance were maintained while integrating modern upgrades to support contemporary community use.

Set within a picturesque natural landscape, the precinct has been enhanced with a range of new recreational and community facilities. These include nature-inspired play spaces, a multi-purpose sports court, community garden areas, outdoor kitchen and BBQ shelters, modern amenities, and a landscaped car park designed to improve accessibility and visitor experience.

The revitalised site has transformed the former school grounds into a vibrant community hub, providing a versatile building for events and gatherings alongside open parkland spaces for recreation and relaxation. The project successfully balances heritage conservation with modern functionality, creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors to connect, gather and enjoy the surrounding landscape.