MRS York’s Garden has been recreated over the past 10 years by a team dedicated to keeping the legacy of Bertha York alive in Port Macquarie.
Bertha York lived near the corner of Stewart and Grant streets, and in 1963 she began transforming the unsightly space opposite into a floral garden.
The garden was dedicated in her name in 1968.
Following her passing, the site fell into disrepair until 2014, when a group, including Bertha’s granddaughter Glenys Pearson, formed the Friends of Mrs York’s Garden and began restoring the space.
Glenys, an experienced horticulturist, served as site supervisor for the first six years before passing the role on four years ago to Karen Hall, whose love of gardening is evident throughout the space.
Di Davison, President and one of the original Friends of Mrs York’s Garden, is a passionate advocate, having seen Bertha in the garden every day as a child.
“The history is a very important part of the story because the garden is a major feature of the town,” said Di.
What visitors see today is a magnificent transformation of the space, focusing on littoral rainforest and coastal headland plants.
Long-term locals Carol Smallman and Di MacDonald helped convince the council to allow Glenys and the Friends to recreate the space for the community and make it a welcoming haven for visitors.
“We have worked hard to bring native plants and beauty back to this headland and to bring people back,” said Di.
Karen Hall led the 2025 project to make and install the mosaic poles.
“A group of us gathered and created the mosaics which tell the story of the gardens,” said Karen.
The project is very much for and by locals, with many businesses and community groups contributing time and supplies free of charge.
Visitors are encouraged to stop and admire the garden, take a stroll along the all-abilities path or boardwalk, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
They can also admire the mosaic poles, dolphin sculptures and restored windmill, and take in views of the river and coastline from the viewing platform in Grant Street.
There is always plenty to do in the garden, and new volunteers are welcome on Wednesday mornings.
By Pauline CAIN
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