Virginia Heywood joins Dr Joseph Toscano in the studios for Radical Australia this week. One of the beloved hosts of the long-running 3CR Gardening Show, Virginia has a fascinating life story that spans grassroots community life, political engagement and a deep commitment to public broadcasting.

From the streets of Hackney to working in the House of Commons in London, Virginia’s journey reflects a lifelong engagement with ideas, activism and community. Her father, Doug Heywood, was a radio commentator best known for sports broadcasting, including the footy, and after returning to Australia Virginia has continued this family tradition. She now broadcasts weekly on 3CR, interviewing a wide range of gardening experts and sharing practical and political perspectives on how we relate to land and place.

Beyond radio, Virginia is a guide at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne and runs a small organisation, the Plant Trust, which works to preserve significant ornamental garden plants in Australia. 

Listen in to learn about Virginia's life story and tune into the 3CR Gardening Show every Sunday 7.30am - 9.15am on 3CR.