Mr Shiel, “Goulburn’s Gardening Great,” was chosen by judges for the Yellow and White Pages and Australian City Farms and Community Gardens Network.

The national network of 600 volunteer-run gardens and related social enterprises promotes the benefits of community gardening and urban agriculture.

Mr Shiel impressed the judges with his image of the Goulburn Community Garden, described as striking, paired with a creative gardening tip, demonstrating a love and passion of gardening and urban agriculture, the judges said.

“We were very excited to accept the title,” Mr Shiel said. “Goulburn Community Garden has been active for five years and our members have found no better way to relax and be creative, while also contributing to making our community more sustainable and beautiful. We hope our gardening tip will inspire others in the Goulburn region and elsewhere to get out and start a garden of their own.”

Mr Shiel appears on the phone directory cover in the community garden and his gardening tip, the secret to his healthy garden, appears on the inside page.

“Community gardens are where people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds can participate, create and learn contributing to a happier and healthier lifestyle,” said Chris Brown of Australian City Farms and Community Gardens Network (NSW). “We are ... eager to use this platform to promote the benefits of community gardening and encourage more people to get involved with the network.”

Distribution of the 2017/18 Goulburn Yellow and White Pages will begin May 19. Those wanting to opt out of a book delivery can do so at directoryselect.com.au