Gardening Australia: Veterans Garden

Melbourne Int Flower & Garden Show 2024
Medal: People’s Choice Award, Silver, Australian Institute of Horticulture Green Space International Award
Garden Name: A Moment in Time
Garden Designer: Peter Donegan MSGD
Contractor: Semken Landscaping
Category: Show Garden
Presented by: Daisys Garden Supplies

A Moment In Time has been awarded the People’s Choice Award for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show 2024.
Designed by Irish Garden Designer Peter Donegan and built by Semken Landscaping this show garden was realised to raise awareness to the 100,000+ people who walk through these gates and we thank every single person who has resonated with this story and taken the time to vote for us.

The suicide rate among (Australia’s) female veterans is 107% higher than the general population, and nearly 30% higher for men. And 5.3% of Australia's half a million current and former service personnel have experienced homelessness in the past year.

The gardens intention is to highlight the struggles some may face when returning to civilian life post service in our armed forces. We have been honoured over the past four days to hear the stories of veterans and their families and we thank all of those who have served, past or present. May a safe and secure retirement await you and we hope you find your own moment in time in a place that brings you peace.

For anyone who has visited the garden or followed our progress online, if you or a family member is in need of support help is available from many wonderful organisations such as Defence Force Welfare Association. We encourage you to reach out and discover how they can assist you.

With thanks to the amazing team that brought A Moment in Time to life.
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