Ozzy,
You made reference to Japanese tradition and high standards yet you have overlooked the humble and respectful teachings that come first.
Did you never make mistakes or ask questions when you began bonsai? Were your first trees show quality? You have the nerve to rubbish other members trees yet you don't show your own. In the last 12 months you have only posted 1 bonsai in training and a couple of stumps. Why?
This is AusBonsai, not OzzyBonsai and there's no place for selfish, elitist, and antagonistic behavior here. I would like you to read
The Spirit and Intent of AusBonsai before you post here again. If after reading it you believe you can abide by the rules then I look forward to you joining in the discussions again. If you feel you can't, then save yourself the embarrassment of being banned and don't log in again.
Pup,
Yes, I wrote the rules and I tried to be as thorough as I could. To me they were clear and concise but in hindsight I see that there are areas that were not covered. We all learn from our mistakes and next year I will ensure that the rules are more comprehensive.
I specified that stock must be raw except for trunk chopping and root work. I never made reference to the pot so it is not a factor for this competition. I did specify that the stock could have had no prior styling which is why I said that your elm did not qualify. If you don't like my decision then that is your choice but please refrain from trying to prove a point.
Sincerely,
Steven