Jason Pomfret (known online as Backyard Bonsai Australia) has been involved with bonsai since his early teens, returning to the art more seriously in his late 20s and early 30s. Now 46, bonsai has become a central part of his life.
For the past three years Jason has been fully immersed at Unryu-en Bonsai, working alongside Ric Roberts and Andrew Edge on what is largely Ric’s collection, with a mix of new creations, legacy trees, and contributions from both Jason and Andrew.
Jason has a particular passion for ficus (fig) bonsai, inspired by the towering old figs he remembers from childhood. He also enjoys working with Australian natives, as well as fruiting and flowering species. His time at Unryu-en has given him the opportunity to engage with trees of all varieties, shapes, and sizes.
Beyond his work on the trees, Jason is the public liaison for Unryu-en, managing their social media presence. He also fills a similar role with the Central Coast Bonsai Club and is an active member of both the Newcastle Bonsai Club and the Bonsai Society of Australia.