The school was founded in 1986 by Mr. Ron Flack and Mrs. Elizabeth Simeonoff.

The School of Bonsai provides affordable courses in Bonsai for all grades, from beginner to advanced students of the art.

Classes are offered over 4 terms, of 9 weeks each, per year by highly skilled teachers.

Beginner and Intermediate classes are of 3 hours duration comprising some theory and plenty of practical Bonsai Creation with demonstrations and workshops.

Advanced classes are held as informal workshops where students work on their tree’s under the guidance of teachers and with the collaboration of fellow students.

All members of the Board, Committee and teachers of The School of Bonsai are unpaid volunteers.

The School of Bonsai is a Not For Profit Incorporated Association.

About Us

The School of Bonsai Committee

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

The School of Bonsai Incorporated is administered by a committee of volunteers who give their time and expertise to ensure that we have access to the best learning environment available.

The committee is elected at our annual AGM held in March, and our current committee position holders are:

Robert McVicar

President & Treasurer

Robert, our President and Treasurer for 2021, navigates the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic as President while maintaining financial stewardship as Treasurer. With 25 years of bonsai experience, his passion lies in black pines and junipers, particularly the literati style. Previously, a senior accountant and auditor, Robert now enjoys retirement, dedicating time to bonsai, ceramics, and family, including his daughter and two granddaughters.

Evan Marsh

Vice President

Evan, the mastermind behind our advanced class, brings years of experience and a deep understanding of bonsai principles. With his nuanced approach, Evan challenges students to push boundaries and explore innovative techniques, refining their skills and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the artistry of bonsai. Under his tutelage, our most seasoned enthusiasts soar to new heights of mastery, fostering a community of continuous learning and growth.

Evan's passion for bonsai shines through his dedicated instruction, inspiring students to unlock their full potential.

Wendy Gordon

Secretary

Wendy has been our Secretary since 2022 and is happy to give back to the school. Wendy started in the beginners class in 2008 along with other committee members, Mark Randall and Doug Winstanley and they have stayed in the same classes since starting. Wendy has been bitten by the bonsai bug, collecting many different plants over the years, leaning more now to Australian natives.

Wendy's dedication to The School of Bonsai is evident in her role as Secretary, as she generously gives back to the community that has enriched her bonsai journey.

Michael Kempson

Teacher's Representative

Michael, a seasoned bonsai enthusiast, began his formal studies at The School in 2017, although he had been deeply involved in bonsai for over a decade prior. With a collection of over 300 trees spanning various species and styles, he shares his expertise as an instructor in the beginner’s class. In addition to his passion for bonsai, Michael is a multifaceted visual artist, holding positions at the University of NSW and the Central Academy of Fine Art in Beijing, China. His artwork is displayed in prestigious institutions worldwide.

Vicky Anne Gatt

Website Manager

Vicky is a visual artist with a newfound passion for bonsai. While relatively new to this creative art form, she's already captivated by its intricacies and delights in the learning journey. Vicky brings her eager spirit and willingness to assist in all facets of our school's activities. With a heart for collaboration and a passion for learning, Vicky is ready to contribute and support the growth of our bonsai community in every way possible.

Paulette de Martin

Committee Member

Paulette, the dedicated heart of our intermediate class. With a wealth of knowledge and endless patience, Paulette guides students through the intricacies of bonsai with grace and expertise.

Whether you're refining techniques or delving into advanced concepts, Paulette's passion and commitment ensure a rewarding learning experience for all. Paulette's nurturing approach creates a supportive environment where students feel empowered to explore and grow in their bonsai journey.

Ken Poole

Committee Member

Joining the school as a beginner around 2004, his journey began with an English Oak I nurtured from seed for two decades. Despite setbacks, it revealed the beauty of bonsai's potential.

The school refined my skills, particularly in Nebari and shaping, although some challenges persisted. Passionate about diverse tree species, especially Australian Natives, and learning through forums like AusBonsai, where I've shared insights and articles, hoping to inspire others to embrace the rewarding journey bonsai offers.

Kerry Stewart

Committee Member

Kerry has been fascinated by, studied and been a journalist exploring horticulture and garden design for much of her career. After retirement in 2017 as a producer for ABC’s Radio National, she was finally able to study her fascination with bonsai.

She also has a long term interest in Japan and studies Zen Buddhism. The people at the School of Bonsai – both teachers and students – have been extremely generous in sharing their knowledge with a relative newcomer, making her experience of working with small trees all the more enjoyable.

Sam Bartolillo

Committee Member

I’ve been dabbling in bonsai for a number of years, my first ‘bonsai’ was a small Port Jackson fig, which I purchased in 1979 and still have it today. It’s only since retirement that I have embraced Bonsai full time. During the last few years, I’ve learned much from the School of Bonsai teachers, mentors and friends, who have happily imparted their in-depth skill of growing and maintaining a Bonsai. I enjoy sharing my knowledge with others, I do like to create a welcoming space for newcomers, and make sure they feel supported and encouraged, as they take their first steps in an ongoing journey into the art of Bonsai.

Helen Hollingsworth

Committee Member

Helen infuses her love for bonsai into every aspect of our school, eagerly offering her support wherever it's needed. From event coordination to sharing valuable insights with fellow enthusiasts, Helen's dedication contributes significantly to the vibrant community we've cultivated.

Her willingness to lend a helping hand and her passion for bonsai are integral to the continued growth and success of our school.