A Fairy Garden established in a previously nondescript courtyard is delighting patients, staff and visitors at the Barcaldine Multipurpose Health Service.
The garden started off small but has been gradually added to over the months and blossomed into something truly magical thanks to the dedication of staff and clients from the Barcaldine Commonwealth Home Support Program.
Barcaldine MPHS Director of Nursing Karen Deininger said the efforts of the home support program staff and clients had turned the garden into a real fantasy wonderland.
“They’ve helped turn the garden into a place of joy, curiosity and wonder for the community,’’ Ms Deininger said.
“We’ve got lights of all kinds, painted stones, as well as artworks contributed by clients of the home support program which they made during craftwork activities.
“A special feature of the garden is an area dedicated to patients we have cared for previously, ensuring their memory remains part of this beautiful space.’’
Ms Deininger said the efforts of staff and clients had been recognised with the garden recently winning the Barcaldine Regional Council’s fairy garden competition.
“Everyone is really pleased about that,’’ she said.
To celebrate the start of spring on 1 September, a Fairy Garden Twilight Supper was held adjoining the garden, with solar lights transforming the space into a glowing fantasy land for all to enjoy.
Ms Deininger said the Twilight Supper proved very popular and was well attended by clients of the home support program, their families and staff.
“We also arranged transport for those who didn’t have any to bring clients to the supper,’’ she said.
“We might even turn it into an ongoing social event.’’