Wednesday 12 November marked a very important day in the history of Sage Cottage Farm – the official launch of three incredible new spaces that will transform the way Wallara gives back to the community with greater inclusion, connection and opportunity for people of all abilities.
Wallara clients, special guests, members of the public and the media were on hand for the official unveiling ceremony of the Hub@Sages – the centrepiece of the redevelopment. The multi-million dollar Hub with its purpose-designed learning, event and office areas, was made possible by the generosity of the Haddrell family, RMBL Foundation, John T Reid Charitable Trust and the Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation, with Ahrens Group bringing the vision to life.
Living Culture provided a beautiful Acknowledgement of Country and cleansing ceremony and 2011 Australian of the Year and Wallara patron, Simon McKeon AO gave a heartfelt welcome via video. His wife, renowned playwright, film director and producer Heather Forbes McKeon joined Wallara clients in cutting the ribbon to formally open the Hub@Sages.
Outdoors, the farm opened two immersive and exciting additions.
The Sensory Garden gives Wallara clients and visitors the chance to explore, relax and reflect in a calming and serene environment. For Phuong, who works two days a week as a barista at Sages Café, the garden is a peaceful oasis.
“It helps me regulate my emotions if I’m feeling stressed or panicked. I love all the flowers and hearing the birds. I feel good and it helps me reset,”-
–Phuong, Sages Cottage Farm client
The vibrant Flower Farm will become a commercial operation, offering 15 or more Wallara clients real-world horticultural experience with freshly cut blooms available for sale at the Farmgate.
Self-proclaimed ‘plant-nerd’ Caleb is excited for people to walk through the garden and see their expressions when it’s in bloom.
“I’ve already achieved planting two rows of peonies and mulching. My biggest dream is to work in an Indigenous nursery. Working in the flower farm gives me that opportunity. It’s the next step towards Open Employment,”
–Caleb, Sages Cottage Farm client
Both these projects are thanks to the Opalgate Foundation, an anonymous partner and the Wong family – with creative design by Urban Discovery, expert work by ROK Landscaping and support from Langwarrin Quarries and Plantmark. The new accessible bridge was completed by Aqua Metro Services and basketball court landscaping was supported by the Frankston RSL.
“After six years of dreaming, planning and hard work – we know these spaces will change the lives of people with disabilities, their families and the local Melbourne community. A big thank-you to everyone who joined us at our official opening day and to the many supporters, patrons, partners and families that help us continue to provide exceptional experiences at Sages Cottage Farm every day”
–Phil Hayes-Brown, Wallara CEO
