MANY of our readers will recall the wonderful ‘Visions of Monaro’ art show which was held in Bombala back in February of 2013, and just like the event itself, the proceeds can now be seen delighting the local community!
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Bombala Hospital Auxiliary was very pleased to open a new garden for the palliative care room last Wednesday, December 10 with the ‘Visions of Monaro’ fundraiser having largely funded the project.
Over 30 invited guests gathered in the newly revamped garden space on December 10 for the opening, with Bombala Hospital Auxiliary President, Betty Cowell addressing the group.
“At last we’re here in the garden,” Mrs Cowell said after giving welcome.
She then gave an outline of the journey behind both the ‘Visions of Monaro’ fundraiser and the garden project itself.
“When one is sick, something bright and beautiful helps,” Mrs Cowell said.
“We contacted Margaret Searle, who gave us good advice on shrubs and flowers for this sheltered spot.”
Mrs Cowell explained that the project was completed with manual help from the Lions Club, community volunteers and students of the Bombala High School, with old plants being removed, new ones going in, and river rocks and mulch being added.
With a few final touches the garden now serves as a restful but cheering place for those in palliative care and their visitors to spend time in.
Mrs Cowell gave sincere thanks to all involved in the project, as well as the fundraising art show, and was very pleased to pass over to the local Rea family to unveil the plaque in the new area.
“The garden is a memorial to Bernie Rea, who was a maintenance man at the old hospital,” Mrs Cowell explained.
Nurse Unit Manager at the hospital, Liz Peadon, then took the opportunity not only to commend all involved in the garden project, but also to thank Mrs Cowell for her many, many years of commitment to the Auxiliary.
With Mrs Cowell set to retire from her long and dedicated role as president of the Auxiliary, the members presented her with a bouquet and a gift to mark the occasion.
All then adjourned for morning tea to celebrate the opening of a very special garden space within the hospital, and the large cooperative effort that made its creation possible.