February 03, 2026

A shared act of care: Creating healing spaces at Hope Bereavement Care

Hope Bereavement Care has recently begun a new chapter, moving into a stand‑alone office at a site rich with local history, the original Warden’s Residence of the Old Geelong Gaol. Positioned just to the left of the main gaol entrance on Myers Street, at the corner of Swanston Street, the heritage house now offers a place of compassion, reflection and support for grieving families across the Barwon region.

While the building itself carries deep historical significance, it was the outdoor spaces surrounding it that held new potential. A small, overgrown backyard, approximately four by five metres, offered the promise of becoming a quiet, private retreat where individuals could sit in silence or meet gently with a counsellor. At the front of the property another modest space awaited care, an area that could offer calm and shade before or after difficult conversations. 

These spaces needed more than routine maintenance. They needed thoughtful hands and a shared sense of purpose. 

That purpose was beautifully realised when the Gateways Gardening Group stepped in. In a short space of time, the team carefully cleared, cleaned and transformed both areas. The backyard was stripped back to create a clean slate, ready for Hope’s gardening enthusiasts to shape into a peaceful sanctuary. The front area was tidied, mown and refreshed, revealing a welcoming and serene setting. 

The before‑and‑after photos captured by the team tell a powerful story of professionalism, pride and care. What was once overgrown and unused has now become the foundation for two intimate outdoor spaces where grieving families can pause, breathe and feel supported. 

These gardens will soon play an important role in Hope Bereavement Care’s work, supporting children, young people and adults who have lost a loved one suddenly and unexpectedly, whether through accident, illness, suicide, miscarriage or other causes. In moments when words can be hard to find, safe and gentle spaces matter more than ever.

This project is also a meaningful example of one not-for-profit supporting another, and of community connection in action. As an employer of people with additional needs, we are proud to have supported another vital local charity through practical skill, teamwork and generosity. It is a powerful reminder of the shared purpose and sector solidarity that exists across the not-for-profit community, where organisations come together to strengthen care, connection and impact for the people they serve.