11 Jul Raised stands ensure pot plants can stay

Potted plants have long been a colourful and cherished feature of the Timboon and District Healthcare Service’s (TDHS) outdoor deck area, so when their future came under pressure the community quickly rallied to save the day.

The Timboon Garden Club and Timboon Men’s Shed are celebrating the completion of a joint project to build mobile, raised plant stands. It was a project born by safety concerns that threatened to force the removal of the pot plants due to tripping fears.

TDHS diversional therapist Enid O’Connor was the mastermind behind the project. She said the Garden Club donated the required funds and the Men’s Shed took care of the rest.

Timboon Garden Club president Kerrie Smith said the members were more than happy to allocate some money to the project.

“It’s about us giving back to the community and recognising plants, vegetation and living things make people feel better. That’s important for people spending time here,” she said.

“There are a variety of plants here on the deck that Enid looks after. There’s always some colour and something to admire all year.

“The Men’s Shed members have done a great job with the plant stands. The plants are now more accessible than ever so that’s a wonderful outcome for everyone.”

Timboon Men’s Shed president John Wigley said the project was a perfect example of how the Mens’ Shed movement could, and should, work in the community.

“Enid approached us, she had the money from the Garden Club, we were able to purchase the materials and we got down to work,” he said.

“Community projects like this are always done for the materials only – we don’t charge. We’re always looking for projects like this that our members can get involved in.

“Everyone is welcome to join us at our shed at 4 Bailey Street on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. We’ve got 22 members, but we’d love to have more.”

TDHS chief operating officer Sharon Rees thanked Enid, the Garden Club and the Men’s Shed for coming together to deliver the project.

“It’s a wonderful thing they’ve all done to make sure we can continue to have these beautiful pot plants out on the deck for residents, patients, clients and our staff to enjoy,” she said.

Photo: Timboon Men’s Shed president John Wigley, TDHS diversional therapist Enid O’Connor, Timboon Garden Club president Kerrie Smith and TDHS chief operating officer Sharon Rees with members of the Timboon Garden Club and Men’s Shed.