In Australia, our Melbourne Parks and Gardens (MPG) team works in partnership with the City of Melbourne to maintain some 500 hectares of iconic sites and green spaces for millions of residents and visitors every year. 

This is tough, demanding work, so in 2019 we launched ‘Fit for Life’, our homegrown program designed to support team wellbeing and engagement holistically, applying best practice from elite sport and fitness programs.

This and our strong focus on mental health has been hugely important for Neil in his struggle to cope with the declining health of our friend and colleague, Jason, diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2021. Jason’s own experience of Fit for Life helped bring him closer to his teenage son, and as his health deteriorated, Neil stepped up to shoulder his workload. 

Natalie Mikecz, Head Gardener, Native Revegetation Sites, appreciates us making it easier for everyone to engage with their own wellbeing: 

Natalie still proudly shows off her sun hat signed by legendary Australian cricketer, Merv Hughes, who came to give us his top tips for living well. It was the session from our Employee Assistance Programme provider, though, that meant the most to her:

“Some days are tougher than others, especially when work or personal stress factors heighten emotions,” says Natalie. “On that day, everything was getting the better of me and I knew it was important for me to attend that session. Everything they spoke about – stress and fatigue and energy limits – resonated deeply. It’s helped me become more confidently attentive to my own needs and self-care. It didn’t happen overnight, but that’s why the program continuity is important, giving us that reinforcement. It’s become part of who we are and what we do.” 

Dedicated to our dear friend and colleague, Jason Grant.

Matt Shorey
Contract Manager, Melbourne Parks and Gardens