Our Journey
Our Story
Our 35 years of experience and dedication to excellence make us industry leaders in the horticultural community
Located in the scenic heart of the Tablelands, just west of Cairns in Far North Queensland, Flourish Plants is a family-owned wholesale nursery with over 35 years of history and growth.
Originally founded as Anza Nursery by Tom and Joy Paterson in 1990, the business has evolved from its humble roots to become a leading supplier of plants across the region. In 2024, Joy made the decision to close the Mareeba Garden Centre and transition into a well-earned retirement, while Tom’s and Joy’s legacy continues to flourish.
Elaine, with more than 15 years of service on the NGIQ (Nursery & Garden Industry Queensland) Board, including several years as President, has been a driving force in the industry.
In recognition of her unwavering dedication, Elaine was awarded Nursery Person of the Year in 2024. Her leadership and passion for the industry have shaped Flourish Plants into what it is today: a trusted name in wholesale nursery production. At Flourish Plants, we are committed to upholding the family values of quality, innovation, and sustainability.
Now in its third generation, the business is proudly led by mother and son duo, Elaine and Adam Duncan.
Our vision is to provide fresh produce farmers across Northern and Central Queensland with high-quality crops, while supporting the horticultural industry with a reliable and efficient freight network that ensures our plants reach their destination. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to growing for a greener future and the next generation of growers.
Our Values
With the following systems in place, we ensure that both our employees and our customers benefit from our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
We are committed
to delivering top-quality service and products
by adhering to the strictest guidelines in the industry. We uphold the highest standard of plant quality and care, following Australia’s Nursery Accreditation Scheme to ensure impeccable crop hygiene and general site management.
We collaborate with industry-recognised growers and breeders
who have global connections, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of new plant introductions and trends around the world.
Offering state-of-the-art equipment
including seeding machines, transplanters capable of handling 20,000 seedlings per hour, and pot forks that can lift and transport a group of 300 pots simultaneously. To enhance workplace safety, efficiency, and productivity, we’ve introduced cutting-edge automation from around the globe.
Facilities
The Fleet
Keeping Plants Fresh on the Move
Our cold room trucks ensure plants stay healthy and vibrant during delivery by maintaining the perfect temperature from the nursery to your farm or doorstep.
Green House
Growing Smarter, Greener
Our greenhouses use an automated irrigation system to deliver the right amount of water and nutrients, creating the perfect environment for strong, healthy plant growth year-round.
Technology
Precision Meets Efficiency
From seeding to transplanting, soil mixing to potting, our advanced machines streamline every stage of plant production, ensuring consistency, speed, and top-quality results.
Our Management Team
At Flourish Plants, our team is the heart of everything we do.
Our people bring passion, knowledge, and dedication to every part of the journey.
Elaine Duncan
Director
Adam Duncan
CEO
Angela
Seedling Production Manager
Tomas
Potting Manager
Sam
Marketing Manager
Diana
Office Manager
Damien
Head Grower
Jono
Maintenance Manager
Jared
Operations Manager
Mark
Customer Relationships Manager
Leesa
Head Propagator
Maud
Dispatch Manager
Hannah
Office Admin
Mio
Executive Assistant
Are you passionate about plants and eager to grow your career in the green industry?
Join the team at Flourish Plants, where every day offers a chance to help bring vibrant landscapes to life.
As part of our team, you’ll work with a diverse range of plants, collaborate with a dedicated team, and contribute to the success of nurseries, landscapers, and garden enthusiasts across the region. Whether you’re hands-on in plant care, managing inventory, or assisting customers, at Flourish Plants, you’ll be at the heart of an exciting, dynamic environment where your skills and love for plants will truly thrive. Grow with us—let’s flourish together!
