By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
GARDENING is more than a chore for Beth Clisby. It’s a hobby, a passion, and has most-recently won her a Victorian Government award.
The Pakenham resident recently won the ‘Best Household Garden’ Award at a ceremony acknowledging the state’s most impressive public housing gardens.
Diagnosed with a degenerative condition linked with a case of childhood polio, Beth finds great joy in gardening.
“One of the special things about gardening is that it doesn’t matter that I have voice and speech impairment, or that I garden from a wheelchair today,” she said.
“It doesn’t matter – gardening doesn’t judge.”
Beth grows a range of plants and produce, including apples, blueberries, magnolias, broccolini and blood plums. She has a special interest in growing salvias.
Her award was announced at a ceremony held at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens, attended by Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley and celebrity gardener Vasili Kanidiadis.
Mr Foley said the awards were a celebration of initiative and diversity.
“Community gardens help to break down social isolation and build up local communities. Holding these awards is part of encouraging and celebrating all the positive community activities that occur in and around public housing,” he said.
“These awards recognise the skill and hard work of public and community housing residents who are creating decorative, productive and environmentally friendly gardens, and enriching their local communities.”
A total of nine awards were given to gardeners in different categories.
“Gardening brings together people from all walks of life. Nobody cares where you’ve come from – you’re all there for the same thing.”
Beth says she credits gardening with providing her with a vision and focus, particularly when things get difficult.
“I try to get into the garden every single day. I just love it.”
