A garden is taking root at Afford’s Western Sydney packaging centre and it’s helping to mend hearts. Created by the business’ supported employees, the garden was planted to honour friends and colleagues who are no longer with us.
The idea was inspired by the recent passing of Lee-Ann, a much-loved member of the Inclusive Employment team whose unexpected death deeply affected those who worked alongside her. Lee-Ann joined the team in 2005. During the following 20-plus years she and her coworkers became close friends, making her loss particularly difficult for the team.
But they were determined Lee-Ann would not be forgotten.
Inclusive employment employee Dion was on hand to plant an Iceberg Rose in his friend Lee-Ann’s honour.
A living tribute
At first the team was unsure of how best to create a lasting tribute.
Then the perfect idea came to them – a remembrance garden. And this week the garden received its first plant – an Iceberg Rose, chosen by the centre’s lead Michael McEvoy.
The garden is more than just a memorial, however.
“The idea came from our supported employees,” says Michael.
“They wanted a way to honour what the people who have passed meant to them. I also think it’s a way of them saying, ‘I’m going to miss you.'”
The remembrance garden reflects the strong bonds that are formed every day within Afford’s packaging centre, which is far more than just a place to work. It’s where friendships are built, milestones are shared and a genuine sense of belonging is created.
The garden will serve as a peaceful place for reflection, remembrance and connection, while also celebrating the friendships that continue to flourish across the Inclusive Employment team.
Lee-Ann and her husband Colin at a recent graduation event where they celebrated completing a vocational course.
A place to grieve
It is a powerful reminder that the relationships formed within our workplaces matter, and that every member of our community leaves a lasting impact on those around them.
As the garden grows, it will stand as a living tribute to friendship, community and the people who helped shape us.
