About BSV
Established in 1972, the Bonsai Society of Victoria has spent more than five decades promoting the art of bonsai across the state.
The Society began following demonstrations held in Melbourne in 1959 by Yuji Yoshimura, then a leading teacher of bonsai in Tokyo. These early events generated strong public interest and led to the formation of a dedicated group of enthusiasts.
In August 1971, a public meeting was held at Christ Church Hall in South Yarra, where a committee was formed and annual subscriptions set. From these beginnings, the Society developed a regular program of meetings and workshops, encouraging members to bring trees for display, discussion, and practical work.
The Society continues to foster learning through shared experience, visiting instructors, exhibitions, and ongoing member participation.
Governance
The BSV is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable environment in which each of our members can grow and develop, offering its members an opportunity to belong and participate in a community organisation.
In keeping with the guidelines we expect all members of the bonsai community to be respectful, kind and caring towards one another. The BSV Code of Conduct applies to all of our members, volunteers, guests, sponsors and supporters. By registering with the BSV you immediately agree to abide by these principles.
Our Current committee
The Bonsai Society of Victoria is governed by an elected committee responsible for overseeing the Society’s activities, program, and member services.
Each role carries specific responsibilities, contributing to the planning of the annual program, member services, sponsorship relationships, and the practical delivery of demonstrations and workshops throughout the year.
President
Stuart Greison
Vice President
Jeffry Farman
Treasurer
Daryl Forge
Secretary
Nicole Parkes
Procurement
Jim Blundell
Sponsorships
Savino Sfregola
Audio VIsual
Jeremy Peach
Graphic Design
Nicole Denton
Presidents
Over more than 50 years, the Bonsai Society of Victoria has been led by dedicated presidents who have guided the Society through its growth and development. Each president has been responsible for representing the Society within the broader bonsai community and maintaining continuity between successive committees.
1971–73 Max Leversha
1974–74 Max Lehey
1975–88 Elsie Gras
1989–92 Richard Salvado
1993–94 Jeffry Farman
1995–02 Frank Hocking
2003–08 Helen Williams
2009–12 Steve Jarrod
2013–16 Gerard Schoofs
2017–23 Victor Byrdy
2024– Stuart Grierson
Life Members
Life Membership is awarded in recognition of sustained and significant service to the Bonsai Society of Victoria. The first Life Membership was granted in 1974 to the inaugural president, Max Laversha. Since then, Life Membership has continued to honour those whose commitment has strengthened the Society and supported its activities over many years.
1974 Max Laversha
1975 Frank Hocking
1977 Peggy Kent & Greta Brezny
1979 Elsie Gras
1984 Elvie Carey, Dot King, Nell Saffin, Evalyne Walsgott & Geoff Vanner
1985 Kevin Heinze
1988 Mary Barker
1991 Marge Vanner, Jeffry Farman, Ron Anderson, John Carey & Jack Tripovich
1996 Helen Williams, Rita and Bob Perry
1997 Max Lehey
2001 Burnie Furness
2008 Steve Jarrold
2010 Quentin Valentine and Hirotoshi Saitoh (Honorary member)
2012 Pat Gaunson
2013 Susan Kerr
2016 Victor Byrdy
2017 Gerard Schoofs
2018 Neil Mounsher
2023 Chris Shilcock
Our Sponsors
The Bonsai Society of Victoria is proud to be supported in 2026 by a dedicated group of sponsors who share our passion for bonsai, horticulture, and community learning. Their generosity helps us deliver quality demonstrations, events, exhibitions, and member resources throughout the year.
Among our sponsors are two specialist nurseries offering an exclusive 30% discount to BSV members, making it easier to access quality stock, tools, and supplies while supporting businesses that actively engage with our community.
Our sponsors also support our monthly meetings, with each meeting featuring a sponsored raffle, adding a fun and appreciated highlight to the evening.
We encourage members to explore and support these businesses.
