Alain Garbaccio

Alain was first introduced to bonsai when he did his first trip as an engineering cadet with Safmarine in 1987. The vessel took him to Japan, where he was fascinated with these “little trees”. He joined Oyama Bonsai Kai in the 1980s and is still an active member.

Today, Alain is retired and lives in Kleinmond. He has 50 well-established and presentable trees, which include indigenous trees and species such Baobab, Wild Olive, Acacias, Spekboom as well as Chinese Elms and Japanese Black Pine.

He is a member of the newly established Kujira Bonsai Kai, based in Hermanus. Alain and his fellow club members hope to share their knowledge and love of bonsais with people who may enjoy a new hobby or wish to learn and share with the club.