For more than three decades, horticulturalist, author and radio presenter Graham Ross has served as the resident gardening expert on Channel Seven's beloved lifestyle program Better Homes and Gardens. Across his remarkable 32-year tenure, Ross has encountered countless inspiring individuals and explored some of the world's most extraordinary gardens. However, one particular garden visit in rural Victoria has left an indelible and heartbreaking mark on the cherished television host.
Personal Connections and Tragic Loss
Speaking exclusively ahead of the highly anticipated return of the hit show this Friday night, Ross reflected on the profound relationships he develops with the gardeners featured on the program. "The gardeners that I meet filming become personal friends," Ross revealed. "But there's a downside to that." He recounted filming an exceptional garden last year in the Strathbogie Ranges of Central Victoria, known as Lakithi Garden, which belonged to Gail van Rooyen and her husband Brian.
After completing the segment, Ross maintained contact with the couple, their growing friendship making subsequent events even more devastating. "She created the most spectacular garden. Unbelievable garden," Ross continued emotionally. "She and her husband built this beautiful home in rural Victoria and the whole lot has been burnt to the ground. It breaks my heart because she was a beautiful woman."
Bushfire Destruction and Emotional Impact
Visibly moved during the interview, Ross explained that since filming their garden for the popular television program, the couple had lost everything in the devastating bushfires that swept through Victoria. "She gave us so much in that show," Ross said, his voice filled with emotion. "This garden that we filmed. And she gave so much to our viewers and now it's lost, and you can't avoid that."
Ross acknowledged that such tragic circumstances remain rare among the many people he maintains contact with from the show, describing all guests as "beautiful people." The experience underscores the unpredictable nature of working closely with homeowners and gardeners across Australia, particularly in regions vulnerable to natural disasters.
Audience Connection and Generational Appeal
Fellow host Johanna Griggs emphasized that Ross's experience highlights precisely how much the long-running series means to its dedicated audience and explains why so many Australians continue welcoming the production team into their homes. "The public has ownership of this show," Griggs stated. "It's been on so long and you have generations of families that watch it ... the amount of people that just let us into their homes. And sometimes it's not even when we're on camera."
Griggs recalled a particularly memorable incident while filming in South Australia when a stranger approached her on the street and insisted on showing her something at their residence. "I kind of walked into this house thinking, it's probably not the safest thing I've ever done," Griggs admitted. "But then they took me to the back to show me a garden project they'd made on the show, like 14 years earlier. I took the photos and sent them back to the office."
Privilege of Participation and Shared Stories
The veteran presenter described the unique privilege of being involved with a program that fosters such meaningful connections with viewers across Australia. "It's such a privilege to be involved in the show for those connections, for the people who are generous enough to let you in and share their stories," Griggs explained. "And even to share the sadness." This emotional dimension adds depth to the program's typically uplifting content, reminding both presenters and audience members of the shared human experiences that transcend television entertainment.
New Season and Expanded Content
The Better Homes and Gardens team has now reunited for what they describe as their most inspiring season yet. Launching the year with beachside segments, the team will share their latest lifestyle ideas, practical tips and creative hacks. The upcoming season promises diverse content including:
- Epic foodie adventures and culinary explorations
- Budget-friendly home makeovers and renovation projects
- Achievable DIY initiatives for various skill levels
- Comprehensive gardening advice and horticultural guidance
- Plenty of adorable animal segments and pet features
Griggs offered a brief preview of what viewers can anticipate in the 2026 season. "A bit more travel this year," she revealed. "And to be honest, great recipes. Anything to do with anyone's life, whether they're renting or whether they own a home, whether it's in gardens or indoors. There is inspiration every which way you look."
The expanded travel components and practical content aim to resonate with Australians from diverse living situations, maintaining the program's reputation as a trusted source of lifestyle inspiration. Better Homes and Gardens returns to Channel Seven and 7plus at 7pm this Friday, continuing its legacy as one of Australia's most enduring and beloved television programs.
