Rotary Backyard Blitz at Queanbeyan Hospital

In our latest project the Rotary Clubs of Jerrabomberra, Queanbeyan and Queanbeyan West joined forces to undertake a ‘backyard blitz’ type project at the Queanbeyan Hospital's Renal Unit.

Since its opening the hospital's Renal Unit has had a fairly large backyard garden area which was unable to be used by either patents or staff due to its slope and lack of landscaping. As a result the area had become neglected and a source of mud and water pooling in heavy rain.  The area bordered by large trees had the potential to become a nice shaded rest and the management of the Renal Unit welcomed an approach to help from the three Rotary Clubs.

A plan was hatched to excavate and level a 50 Square metre area which would be edged by a retaining wall to provide a large retained garden bed and a good sized and well drained courtyard area for use and enjoyment by the Renal Unit staff, patients and families.   In early December 2013, the work started with the excavations (using some “big boys toys”), followed by an army of Rotary volunteers descending on the unit to lay the drainage, build the retaining walls and lay the pavers. To keep the army of volunteers well fuelled, the Queanbeyan Country Women’s Association provided much needed lunches and morning and afternoon teas. Final finishing touches were completed before Christmas.

When asked how the yard looks now, the Renal Unit manager answered, "We are over the moon about it. Our utmost appreciation for the effort and hard work afforded by all; a truly inspiring and humbling experience to see everyone come together like that. … Thank you all for such a wonderful gift.”

Before & after the Backyard Blitz at the Queanbeyan Hospital Renal Unit