A GARDEN OF CULTURE AND CARE BLOOMS AT NY-KU BYUN

At Pinangba’s Ny-Ku Byun Elders Village in Cherbourg, a central courtyard has blossomed into a vibrant cultural garden – a living testimony to the vision, dedication and heart of the Kabi Kabi Maintenance Team: James Stanley (Kabi Kabi, Wakka Wakka), Cecil Fisher (Kabi Kabi) and Kaleel Bond (Kabi Kabi, Wakka Wakka).

From Little Things, Big Things Grow

What began as a humble effort to beautify the grounds at Ny-Ku Byun soon grew into something far bigger. “It all started with me, Cecil and Kaleel coming up with ideas of what we could do to give the place some love and make it feel homely for our old people,” James said. “We began with small steps – mulching, creating garden beds, moving plants around – mostly using recycled materials and compost from the site.”

The team’s next idea was to “go bigger”, bringing in native plants to help residents connect with Country. “The courtyard is the heart of Ny-Ku Byun, and seemed like the perfect place for a garden facelift. The residents really loved the idea, which spurred us on.”

The final design features native species chosen for their sensory and cultural significance, like Woolly Bush (touch), Finger Limes and Midyim Berries (taste), Native Lemongrass (smell), Kangaroo Paw (sight), and Grevillea (sound).

Tracey O’Hanlon, General Manager Facilities & Maintenance, was heartened to watch the team grow. “James, Cecil and Kaleel started with us through a horticulture traineeship, and are now cherished members of the team. We’ve been so lucky to have them bring both their horticulture and cultural knowledge to this project.”

Partnership and Shared Vision

The garden came to life through a spirit of collaboration and generosity, supported by UnitingCare’s Sustainability and Reconciliation teams and generous sponsorship from Toyota Fleet Management (TFM).

Chris Potts, Regional Manager at TFM, said the team were eager to support the project. “We were honoured to be involved – being part of it was really inspiring for our team. It reminded us that sustainability isn’t just about reducing vehicle emissions or planting trees; it’s also about fostering connection and respecting the deep knowledge and traditions of First Nations people.”

UnitingCare’s Manager Environmental Sustainability, Simone Elias, added, “Caring for Country—especially in a way that looks to the leadership and knowledge of First Peoples—is an important part of reconciliation. For me, that’s been a really special aspect of this project.”

Working Bee and Grand Opening Celebration

On National Tree Day, July 30th, staff, residents and project sponsors came together for a working bee to complete the planting.

James opened the morning with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, sharing the inspiration behind the project. “This project is 100% for the residents. Our focus all along was to make sure they were happy.”

 

Attendees planted out the new garden beds, mulched, watered, and enjoyed morning tea with staff and residents. Toyota Fleet Management designed custom t-shirts for the occasion, featuring artwork by James’ two-year-old daughter – a touching symbol of legacy and hope.

The impact of the completed garden was immediate. “Uncle Drayton, whose room opens onto the courtyard, said it’s looking really good—and he’ll tell off anyone who says otherwise!” James laughed. “Aunty Adele was also really into it—she’s a green thumb and helped with planting on the day. And everyone loves that Woolly Bush!”

Andrea Fox, General Manager Pinangba, shared, “The smiles on the faces of the residents, staff and visitors made my heart truly sing.”

Looking Ahead

The garden has already begun to bear fruit – not just in blooms, but in conversations and dreams.

“It’s started a lot of conversations, like adding artwork and signs in Wakka Wakka language. And we’d love to replicate it at our other Elders’ villages.”

“Coming into summer, everything’s going to be blossoming and green. It’ll be so nice for residents to sit in the shade and enjoy the flowers and birds.”

“I couldn’t be happier with the outcome,” James said. “Or more grateful to be part of it.”

This project is a reminder that even the smallest seeds – planted with care – can grow into something beautiful.

Note: Pinangba is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led service delivery arm of UnitingCare. Ny-Ku Byun, which means ‘Our Home’, is an Elder’s Village, providing high-quality aged care to a diverse community in the Aboriginal community of Cherbourg.

Facilities & Maintenance team, James, Cecil, Peter, John and Tracey

An "After" photo with Wooly Bush

Simone Elias, UnitingCare Queensland, and Chris Potts, Toyota Fleet Management

James Stanley offering a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony on National Tree Day