Windfall for local garden project

Abbeyfield House Mount Gambier is the 2024 recipient of the Friends of Stand Like Stone Champion Grant, securing almost $3000 for a garden project.

The Friends of Stand Like Stone program, now in its fourth year, was developed to encourage and help more people become a local philanthropist for the Limestone Coast community.

Stand Like Stone CEO Mr Roger Babolka said for $500 a year, the ‘Friends’ donation helps us to continue to deliver support and assistance across the Limestone Coast.

The ‘Friends’ donations are pooled with that of other Friends, ultimately providing the community with an annual grant, which all Friends have the opportunity to vote for their preferred grant recipient.

“This year we are thrilled to announce that the successful applicant for the Friends Champion grant in 2024 is Abbeyfield House, Mount Gambier,” Mr Babolka said. “This magnificent organisation was successful in securing a grant of $2,460 that will go towards the installation of five large raised garden beds for use by the residents of Abbeyfield House.”

Abbeyfield House Mount Gambier, which opened in 1991, is a purpose built independent living facility for people over 55 years of age who are capable of living in their own homes but are looking for the company and security of shared accommodation.

The house caters for up to 10 residents, with an additional attached guest room to accommodate people wishing to undertake a trial period or respite.

Abbeyfield House Mount Gambier committee chair John Kirby welcomed the windfall.

“We’re extremely grateful for the support from Stand Like Stone with this project, which is for the benefit of the residents of the Abbeyfield House,” he said. “It provides them with an incentive to get outside and be active in tending to the vegetable and ornamental garden plots, as well as providing fresh organic vegies for the housekeeper to use in her cooking for the residents.”