38th AABC National Bonsai Convention – Tasmania 2026

Join the Bonsai Society of Southern Tasmania for the 38th Australian National Bonsai Convention, taking place at the Wrest Point Conference Centre on the scenic banks of the River Derwent from Friday, 1 May to Monday, 4 May 2026.

A decade after the highly successful 2016 event, Tasmania once again welcomes bonsai enthusiasts to celebrate the unique beauty of 'Southern Bonsai.' Tasmania is renowned for its rich and diverse flora, making it an inspiring destination for bonsai lovers. From dramatic alpine landscapes to rare and endemic species, the island offers endless creative possibilities for both exotic and native bonsai trees.

This year’s headline international artist is Matt Reel from the Pacific Northwest, USA, known for his expertise with rugged, windblown coastal trees. The convention will also feature demonstrations from experienced Australian bonsai artists, including Jarryd Bailey, Hugh Grant, and Sean Hartley.

Enjoy a vibrant exhibition of bonsai works by talented artists from across Tasmania, plus a warm Welcome Reception and the official Exhibition opening on Friday evening. Attendees can also take part in special tours, including a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) and an all-day field trip to explore Tasmania’s remarkable flora, such as Pencil pines, Athrotaxis species, Pandani, and more.

Whether you’re a seasoned bonsai artist or just starting out, this convention promises inspiration, learning, and the chance to connect with the friendly Tasmanian bonsai community.

Registration and further details are available at these links:

 https://aabcconvention2026.square.site/

 or   from the Bonsai Society of Southern Tasmania website:

https://bonsai-society-southern-tasmania.square.site/

Canberrans, other visitors, and delegates to the 2025 AABC National Bonsai Convention experienced the serenity of bonsai at the AABC 2025 Convention and Exhibition in May.

The Canberra Bonsai Society's 50th-anniversary celebration included an exhibition of over 130 high-quality trees, pots, and display stones open to the public on May 17 and 18. In addition to the exhibition, a vendor area offered trees, pots, tools, and equipment for sale, providing a comprehensive experience for Exhibition visitors interested in bonsai.

For those who missed it, here are some links to media reports and a video of the exhibition.

ABC News story

https://youtu.be/Mc3YjekbhHE?si=e1AuLDM0x9O8E11S

David Nasser’s (President of Bonsai Northwest Inc) video

https://youtu.be/Mm0pVRqZ64Q

Our exhibition, which forms part of the 2025 AABC National Convention, showcases the intricate beauty of bonsai trees, which are crafted with patience and precision to embody the harmony between the viewer and nature.

Discover the Art of Bonsai:

• Living Sculptures: Marvel at the meticulously shaped miniature trees, some over 50 years old, each a testament to the art of bonsai.
• Cultural Significance: Dive into the rich cultural heritage of bonsai, symbolising patience, self-discipline, and respect for nature.
• Artistic Expression: Explore how bonsai reflects the Japanese aesthetic of 'wabi-sabi,' finding beauty in imperfection and transience.

Event Details:

• Date: 17-18 May 2025
• Location: The Canberra Rex Hotel, 151 Northbourne Ave, Canberra
• Time: The exhibition is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Tickets: Pay at the door (Adults - $10, Concession - $7, Children under 12 are free), and cash and credit card facilities are available.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene world of bonsai and participate in a unique cultural experience in Canberra. Let's cultivate a deeper appreciation for nature and art together!

Contact Information:

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Download a brochure and put it on a workplace noticeboard to help make this unique event successful.

2025 AABC 37th National Bonsai Convention Highlights

The 37th AABC National Bonsai Convention was a vibrant and memorable event held in Canberra from May 16 to 19, 2025. Hosted by the Canberra Bonsai Society, which also celebrated its 50th anniversary, the convention brought together bonsai enthusiasts from across Australia and beyond.

Over 210 delegates from 42 bonsai clubs attended, with participants coming from every state and territory, as well as three from New Zealand. The event featured a packed programme, including a tour of the National Arboretum and the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of Australia. International bonsai masters Jennifer Price and Michael Hagedorn from the US led masterclasses and workshops, as well as other workshops with Jarryd Bailey (Tasmania) and Marcela Ferreira (Melbourne).

The festivities kicked off with a Welcome Reception, where guests enjoyed canapés and drinks while admiring over 130 stunning bonsai displays, suiseki (viewing stones), and a collection of bonsai pots. The Japanese Ambassador officially opened the convention, adding a special touch to the occasion.

Throughout the weekend, attendees enjoyed live demonstrations by top bonsai artists, including Jennifer, Michael, Jarryd, Marcella, and Sam Thompson from Canberra. The Saturday night Convention Dinner was a highlight, featuring a 50th birthday cake and the awarding of trophies for outstanding bonsai. Demonstration trees from the event were also auctioned.

The Canberra team are to be commended for their efforts over the past two years.  Comments received so far say that the exhibition of such a large and diverse number of species was spectacular.  The convention programme's theme of ‘Future Directions’ engendered much discussion between the demonstrators and the audience throughout the weekend.

The convention was made possible by a dedicated team of 70 volunteers and featured a bustling marketplace with 12 vendors offering a variety of bonsai, pots, stands, and accessories. Media coverage included:

• A video of the Exhibition by David Nasser, President of Bonsai Northwest
  https://youtu.be/Mm0pVRqZ64Q
• An ABC News story
  https://youtu.be/Mc3YjekbhHE?si=e1AuLDM0x9O8E11S.

The 2025 convention was a true celebration of bonsai artistry, community, and the enduring passion for this living art form.

AABC 2025 CONVENTION BROCHURE [PDF]

THE EXHIBITION CATALOGUE [PDF]

VIEW CONVENTION PROGRAM 21/4/25 [PDF]

FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT OUR DEMONSTRATORS  [PDF]

The Exhibition

The AABC Convention exhibition showcased some outstanding bonsai for convention delegates and the general public. The Canberra Bonsai Society is a strong and vibrant club with nearly 300 members. In preparation for the convention, senior members worked with potential exhibitors from March 2024 to raise the quality of our displays and refine our trees.

Exhibition Awards (PDF)

The 38th (2026) AABC Convention will be hosted in Hobart.

 A Tasmanian Bonsai Experience: The Bonsai Society of Southern Tasmania will host the 38th Australian National Bonsai Convention at the Wrest Point Conference Centre, situated on the banks of the River Derwent, from Friday, 1 May to Monday, 4 May 2026. See more info.

Registration and further details are available at these links:

 https://aabcconvention2026.square.site/

 or   from the Bonsai Society of Southern Tasmania website:

https://bonsai-society-southern-tasmania.square.site/

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The Canberra Bonsai Society demonstrates a strong commitment to safety by ensuring the health and well-being of all members, volunteers, and visitors at its activities. To support this, the Society has established a straightforward incident reporting system to which we will respond.

This website is our beta version of the CBS website.  Our current website, which is soon to be replaced, is www.cbs.org.au.