George Samuel Walter Memorial Garden, 2016

At our July meeting we presented the entries to the My Port Melbourne photograph competition, announced the winners and made our selection for the People’s Choice Award.

Christine Griffith’s entry, “George Samuel Walter Memorial Garden, 2016”, was judged the overall winner.  In the coming months we’ll be presenting several entries on this website but it’s only fitting that we start with the winning entry.

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George Samuel Walter Memorial Garden, 2016

This small forgotten corner housed graffitied benches, a neglected horse trough, a bus shelter and a bust of George Samuel Walter 1872 – 1937.  It is the entrance (or exit) to Port Melbourne.

I researched who this gentleman was and learnt that he had been a Councillor and Commissioner for the MMBW and believe he was responsible, amongst other things, for the sewerage being connected in Port Melbourne.  He lived at 93 Heath Street so he is a former neighbour.  I wrote to the Council and asked if between us we could improve his surroundings and turn this sad little area into a more pleasant and inviting place.

In February I met with Geoff Baker, Parks Services and few weeks later Geoff and his team reactivated the watering system, mulched, fed and replanted this little area.  The graffiti was also removed.

This pocket of space has blossomed with shoppers and traders all expressing their appreciation of the transformation.  On a sunny day you now see people sitting here reading a book or eating their lunch.  I also hope that because it is now a more loved space that it will less likely attract graffiti.  It is a place to sit, enjoy and reflect and a fitting memorial to George Walter.

Christine Griffiths