Thank you for visiting this page. Please read below to hear the story behind the Whiddon Largs Garden project.
What is the Whiddon Largs Garden project?
In December 2020, Creative Engagement Specialist Maurie Voisey-Barlin was delivering a lively weekly afternoon discussion session with residents at Whiddon Largs when he asked for their thoughts around the COVID-19 pandemic.
Maurie was curious to hear how the pandemic had affected residents, but the conversation soon turned to their concerns about its impact on others. While residents had felt sad about restrictions on visitation at times, they wanted to talk more about what the pandemic means for the world, and especially, next generations.
The sessions regularly discuss legacy. The group talk about what people as individuals leave behind and the important of not only being remembered, but about sharing their thoughts, memories, wisdom, learnings and knowledge with those who follow in our footsteps.
A beautiful discussion followed about the thoughts and wishes they would like to leave younger generations as we move on from 2020, to a new year in 2021. These are the words that residents shared, in hope for 2021.
Goodbye 2020. In 2021 we hope for . .
Kindness
Patience
Respect
Manners
Loyalty
Love
Caring
Faithfulness
Honesty
Laughter
Faith
Belief
Family
Smiles
One of the residents recalled the story of the Anthony Hordern & Sons Department Store logo & motto. The logo featured a large tree under which was written ‘Whilst I live I grow’. A number of residents recalled this and were touched by its simple wisdom and legacy.
The group wanted to say goodbye to 2020, which was described by one of the residents as an ‘uncertain and sad year’. Then came the suggestion ‘why don’t we plant a tree?’. This was a popular suggestion.
The enthusiastic group realised that a large tree was not the right choice, as the position needed would require it to be planted in a spot where the residents would not see it daily. After a very vibrant, playful, and thoughtful discussion, they agreed that a small tree or perhaps a tall bush would do the trick.
It was decided to plant the bush outside the sunroom in the courtyard where they could watch it grow and flower. They wanted a native, hardy and enduring plant. A plant that flowered frequently, with vibrant flowers that could be seen from the sunroom as the residents looked outside during afternoon tea.
The choice was the tall variety Grevillea (Honey Barbara) which features brilliant orange and red flowers that appear year-round.
And so here it stands today.
What does this tree commemorate?
This is a gesture to the future to all who visit, live and work at Whiddon Largs.
Please take a moment to admire its beauty and reason for being and remember those who planted this in the hope that after 2020, we find more time to be together, take time to interact, to never take for granted the value of true compassion, connection and positivity in the face of adversity. We remember those who have walked this earth before us and wish the best for those who follow in our footsteps.
“Looking to the Future”
The Residents of Largs – 8 February 2021.
Maurie with resident, Beryl who was excited to receive the plaque
The tree was planted at a special event on 8 February 2021
Whiddon Largs Leisure Officers with Maurie
Whiddon thanks Maurie Voisey-Barlin for helping to bring this project to life. The words above were told to Whiddon by Maurie. We also thank Jackson and the team at Planet Engraving, Rutherford NSW, for their financial support, care and genuine commitment in the making of the plaque for all to enjoy.