Beaudesert Hospital’s Gathering Circle has received a meaningful makeover thanks to the dedication and hard work of Dave Bestmann.
A proud Gamilaraay man and familiar face at the hospital, Dave has been part of the Beaudesert community for more than 40 years.
In his role as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Hospital Liaison, Dave supports First Nations patients and regularly shares his knowledge and deep connection to Country to help improve their hospital experience.
His latest contribution - a bush tucker garden added to the Gathering Circle - is no exception.
Dave generously gave up his own time to plant the garden, which now includes native greens and fruit trees.
“The berries on the trees we have here have the highest vitamin C concentration of any fruit in the world,” Dave said. “I wanted to introduce plants that are native but also have their own health benefits.”
Dave said the garden, with its cultural and spiritual connections to Country, enhanced the Gathering Circle as a place of healing and reflection.
“People come out here to use the space all the time, even just on their tea break or to enjoy the peace,” he said. “I wanted to make this space a sanctuary, and a place to connect, for those at Beaudesert Hospital.”
Now enjoying the fruits of his labour, Dave is already thinking about what’s next for the space. Thank you Dave for everything you do to enrich the community at Beaudesert Hospital.