The Bundaberg Hospital Healing Garden came to life this spring during the third annual Garden Wellbeing Event, hosted by Nurse Educator Julie Melhop.
The much-loved event, supported by Cheryl Steers, Karen Reid, Christina Ongley, and Nik Wenham, welcomed more than 100 staff members who took time out of their busy day to relax, connect, and recharge in the garden.
Attendees enjoyed herbal teas, mindfulness activities, and the chance to win a range of prizes, including plant giveaways and a coffee pack donated by Partners in Care Together.
Among the winners were members of the PARAS nursing team and Kaylene from the Executive team, who were delighted to take home their prizes.
Adding to the vibrant spring atmosphere, more than 60 sunflower gifts were shared with staff, alongside native plants donated by Gin Gin Landcare and trees contributed by Bundaberg Landcare.
Allied Health Assistant Damon also helped plant new additions to the garden beds, building on his ongoing work introducing sensory herbs to support patients’ therapeutic experiences.
Julie and Damon reflected on the growing importance of therapeutic horticulture in healthcare, highlighting the way gardening can foster meaningful conversations, relaxation, and joy among patients and staff alike.
Sustainability Project Officer Christina Ongley joined the event to share updates on Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) sustainability initiatives and to encourage staff to continue engaging in environmentally friendly practices both at work and at home.
Julie said the annual event continues to strengthen staff connection and wellbeing.
“It’s a joy to see staff connecting with nature and each other in such a meaningful way,” she said.
“The Healing Garden is a space where wellbeing grows. Seeing staff pause, breathe, and connect with the garden reminds us that often it’s the simple things that have the biggest impact.”
She added that many staff shared stories about how their plants from previous years were thriving, demonstrating the lasting connection created through this initiative.
Karen Reid also praised the event’s success.
“A lot of people said how simply wonderful it was, they loved the fact the lemon myrtle came from the garden! A real connection to place,” she said.
Research consistently shows that spending time in nature can enhance mental health and support cognitive restoration.
Staff experienced these benefits firsthand as they enjoyed lunch in the garden, sipped lemon myrtle tea, and used mindfulness cards to take a moment of calm and clarity.
Now in its third year, the Healing Garden Wellbeing Event continues to grow in both attendance and impact, reflecting the strong interest among staff in nature-based wellbeing activities.
Planning is already underway for next year’s celebration, and staff interested in contributing through donations, volunteering, or new ideas are encouraged to contact Julie Melhop.