2027 39th AABC National Bonsai Convention
21st - 24th May | Liverpool Catholic Club
Welcome to the 39th AABC National Bonsai Convention
It is both an honour and a privilege to host this national gathering of artists, enthusiasts, and custodians of the bonsai tradition. This convention represents more than an event — it is a celebration of generations of dedication, craftsmanship, and respect for living art.
In 2027, we proudly mark a historic milestone for the Australian bonsai community. For the very first time, Shinji Suzuki and Hiroaki Suzuki will be visiting Australia as our international headline artists. Recognised globally as world-class Bonsai Masters, they represent the highest standards of Japanese bonsai — discipline, refinement, technical mastery, and an unwavering respect for tradition. To witness their artistry in person and learn directly from them is a rare opportunity that may not present itself again for many years.
Shinji Suzuki and Hiroaki SuzukiAndrew Edge and Andrew SelmanOur Australian talent stands equally strong. We are proud to feature Andrew Edge (NSW) and Andrew Selman (Queensland), both participants in the prestigious Visiting Tutor Program and artists who have undertaken dedicated study in Japan. Their commitment to refining their craft at the source reflects the standard we continue to build here in Australia — grounded in tradition, strengthened by international experience, and driven by continual improvement.
Janet Selby, Linh Khanh, and Evan Salisbury MarshAdding further depth to the program, attendees will experience a combined demonstration by Janet Selby, Linh Khanh, and Evan Salisbury Marsh — three respected artists bringing different perspectives, styles, and years of practical experience to the stage. The collaboration promises energy, insight, and the kind of dynamic exchange that strengthens our bonsai community.
Meet Our Demonstrators
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![Shinji Suzuki 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention | Illawarra Bonsai Society]()
Shinji Suzuki
Bonsai Professional & Owner of the Taikan Bonsai Museum
Japan
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![Hiroaki Suzuki 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention | Illawarra Bonsai Society]()
Hiroaki Suzuki
Bonsai Professional
Japan
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![Andrew Edge 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention | Illawarra Bonsai Society]()
Andrew Edge
Australian Bonsai Artist and Tutor
Central Coast, NSW
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![Andrew Sellman | 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention | Illawarra Bonsai Society]()
Andrew Sellman
Australian Bonsai Artist
Noosa, QLD
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![Janet Selby 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention | Illawarra Bonsai Society]()
Janet Selby
Artist, specialises in ceramics
Southern Sydney, NSW
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![Khanh Linh 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention | Illawarra Bonsai Society]()
Khanh Linh
Australian Bonsai Artist
Sydney, NSW
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![Evan Marsh, 2027 AABC Bonsai Convention]()
Evan Marsh
Bonsai Professional
Sydney, NSW
Register for the 2027 Australian Bonsai Convention
Register Now
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Early Bird Pricing until 31 October 2026
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Register Now ✦ Early Bird Pricing until 31 October 2026 ✦
Enjoy full access across both Saturday and Sunday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day. Please note, additional activities are not included. Early Bird closes 31 October 2026.
Early Bird
Pricing
Single Day Registration for either Saturday or Sunday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Please note, additional activities are not included.
Join us for a formal welcome reception with canapés and light refreshments, and enjoy an exclusive preview of the bonsai display.
A relaxed and enjoyable get-together with old friends, a chance to make new ones, share a meal, enjoy a few drinks, and celebrate those recognised for their outstanding bonsai on display
Your chance to take part in an all-day, hands-on workshop with one of our visiting international guests, working on your own tree in a small group of experienced bonsai enthusiasts. Enjoy personalised guidance, practical techniques, and valuable insights throughout the day. Morning tea and a light lunch are included, making for a relaxed and rewarding learning experience.
Join us for a beautiful day out, beginning with Bonsai South Nursery before hitting the road for a stunning coastal drive through Stanwell Park. You'll have the chance to stretch your legs with a walk across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, taking in the ocean views. To wrap it all up, we’ll head inland to explore the gorgeous natives at the Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan.
A unique opportunity to take part in a 3-hour workshop, elevating the quality of your own tree under the guidance of either Shinji or Hiroaki.
3-hour workshop: $95
Observer: $35
Take part in an exclusive small group experience with fellow bonsai enthusiasts, where selected trees from the display will be explored through guided critique. Sessions will be held on Saturday and Sunday, beginning at 7.30 am each day.
Program
Pre-Event - Friday 21 May 2027
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Located in the Pre Function Room. Pick Up your prepaid registration prior to going on the bus trip or attending the master class workshop.
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Your chance to take part in an all-day, hands-on workshop with one of our visiting international guests, working on your own tree in a small group of experienced bonsai enthusiasts. Enjoy personalised guidance, practical techniques, and valuable insights throughout the day. Morning tea and a light lunch are included, making for a relaxed and rewarding learning experience.
Shinji - Terrace Rms 1-2 & Hiroaki - Terrace Rms 3-4
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Please meet at the hotel reception for 8.30am for a 9.00am departure.
Sit back and relax as you enjoy a guided tour showcasing the very best the Illawarra has to offer. Take in the scenery, visit carefully selected locations, and share the experience with fellow bonsai enthusiasts in a comfortable and enjoyable setting.
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The AABC NEW STYLIST AWARD is a competition to recognise up and coming Bonsai
Artists with the possibility of them joining the AABC demonstrator list for the Visiting
Tutor Program.
The award will be presented to the winner of the contest as judged by delegates of
the AABC National Convention.
Eligibility requirements
Any person who is a financial member of an AABC member club is eligible to
participate.
They should have enough Bonsai experience to be involved in club activities to share
their knowledge and techniques and may have demonstrated at their local club
meeting, exhibition or activity before.
THEY MUST NOT:
1. Be on the AABC VTP Demonstrator list.
2. Have previously demonstrated at an AABC National Convention.
3. Have been a previous winner of the AABC New Stylist Award.
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If you haven’t already picked up your pre-paid registration now the time, prior to the Welcome reception.
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A wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a light, social evening while getting an exclusive sneak peek of the Bonsai Display ahead of the main event.
Located in the Ballroom Bar.
Day One - Saturday 22 May 2027
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If you haven’t already picked up your pre paid registration now the time, prior to the start of Day one.
Located in the Pre Function Room.
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Enjoy the privilege of being part of a small, focused group for an exclusive tree critique session, guided by either Shinji or Hiroaki—offering personalised feedback, expert insight, and practical direction to help you refine and elevate your bonsai.
Function Rms 2-3-4
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Opening Ceremony formalities. Located in the Grand Ballroom
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Have the privilege of witnessing the first-ever demonstration in Australia by Shinji and Hiroaki Suzuki—an exceptional opportunity to experience their skill, artistry, and approach firsthand as they share their knowledge with the Australian bonsai community.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
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Located in the Hotel Restaurant
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While work continues, Shinji will present a dedicated talk on the art of bonsai display, offering valuable insight into presentation, balance, and how to showcase your trees at their very best.
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Located in the Hotel Restaurant
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Two highly skilled bonsai professionals come together to deliver an engaging and informative demonstration, blending expert technique with a touch of State of Origin rivalry. Expect plenty of insight, creativity, and a bit of friendly competition as they showcase their skills and share their approach to developing quality bonsai.
Located in the Grand Ballroom.
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Located in the Hotel Restaurant
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Two highly skilled bonsai professionals come together to deliver an engaging and informative demonstration, blending expert technique with a touch of State of Origin rivalry. Expect plenty of insight, creativity, and a bit of friendly competition as they showcase their skills and share their approach to developing quality bonsai.
Located in the Grand Ballroom.
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Annual General Meeting for the Australian Associated Bonsai Clubs
(AABC members only).
Located in the Hotel Restaurant.
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The title says it all—an opportunity to come together, catch up with friends old and new, and enjoy a great evening in a relaxed and social setting. Celebrate the outstanding achievements of those recognised for their exceptional trees on display, while taking part in the excitement of the tree auction and sharing in the spirit of the bonsai community.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
Day Two - Sunday 23 May 2027
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If you haven’t already, its time to pick up your pre-paid registration.
Located in the Pre Function Room.
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Enjoy the privilege of being part of a small, focused group for an exclusive tree critique session, guided by either Shinji or Hiroaki—offering personalised feedback, expert insight, and practical direction to help you refine and elevate your bonsai.
Function Rms 2-3-4
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Khanh, Janet, and Evan will entertain and engage you through a unique blend of creation, painting, and conversation—bringing their individual styles together to share ideas, techniques, and inspiration.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
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Located in the Hotel Restaurant
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Khanh, Janet, and Evan will entertain and engage you through a unique blend of creation, painting, and conversation—bringing their individual styles together to share ideas, techniques, and inspiration.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
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Located in the Hotel Restaurant
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A demonstration featuring Shinji and Hiroaki Suzuki, along with special guests, designed to leave you inspired and reflecting on the future of your beloved trees—sharing fresh ideas, refined techniques, and a deeper appreciation of how your bonsai can continue to evolve and improve over time.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
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Located in the Hotel Restaurant
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A demonstration featuring Shinji and Hiroaki Suzuki, along with special guests, designed to leave you inspired and reflecting on the future of your beloved trees—sharing fresh ideas, refined techniques, and a deeper appreciation of how your bonsai can continue to evolve and improve over time.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
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Located in the Grand Ballroom
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That brings us to a close for 2027. We now look forward to the 2028 National Convention.
Located in the Grand Ballroom
Monday Workshops - Monday 24 May 2027
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A unique opportunity to take part in a 3-hour workshop, elevating the quality of your own tree under the guidance of either Shinji or Hiroaki.
Function Rms 2-3-4
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A unique opportunity to take part in a 3-hour workshop, elevating the quality of your own tree under the guidance of either Shinji or Hiroaki.
Function Rms 2-3-4
Location
The Australian Bonsai Convention will be held at the Liverpool Catholic Club in Prestons, NSW — a premier, family-friendly venue established in 1975. The Club offers exceptional facilities including diverse dining options such as The Atrium Steakhouse and Slice of Life, a 200-seat theatre, an ice rink, indoor playground, and the convenience of the 192-room Mercure hotel onsite. It provides the space, comfort, and professionalism worthy of a national convention of this calibre.
Date(s)
May 21, 2026 - May 24, 2025
Location
424-458 Hoxton Park Road, Hoxton Park
Where to Stay
Mercure Sydney Liverpool four-star hotel features rooms with contemporary décor, each equipped with a flat-screen LCD TV, cable channels and a work area with internet access. Guests can select from three on-site dining options, and Mercure Sydney Liverpool offers complimentary parking.
On the grounds, there is an outdoor swimming pool, al fresco dining areas, a fully equipped professional-grade fitness centre, and an ice rink. Situated beside the Liverpool Catholic Club, Mercure Hotel Liverpool is a 5-minute drive from Liverpool town centre and about 30 minutes by car from Bankstown Airport. Every room includes a luxurious bathroom, air conditioning and a media hub for USB, AV or laptop connections.
Location
424-458 Hoxton Park Road, Hoxton Park
Bookings
All attendees are welcome to a 12% discount. Please contact us for more information.
Register for your place today
This convention is about legacy. It is about honouring the past while building the future of Australian bonsai. It is about raising standards, strengthening friendships, and ensuring the next generation inherits something even stronger than what we were given.
We look forward to welcoming you to what will be a defining moment for bonsai in Australia.