Meet Damian – Helping Our Garden and Community Grow
If you’ve spent time in the Lalor NH community garden, you’ve probably been greeted by Damian’s warmth, humour, and genuine enthusiasm for people. He’ll happily admit he’s an “average gardener,” but his true gift is cultivating connection, confidence, and community. Under his guidance, the garden has become a place where everyone, regardless of age, ability, or experience can feel valued and included.
Before joining LNH, Damian enjoyed a successful corporate career, including several years living overseas. A highlight was working with Disney Consumer Products in London, where he managed a team across Europe and found himself attending movie premieres and meeting stars. After returning to Melbourne and working at Telstra as a project manager, he realised corporate life no longer aligned with his values. In 2023, he stepped away in search of something more fulfilling and found it in our garden.
Damian now supports participants in developing social, life, and gardening skills through hands-on experiences and genuine connection. Working alongside groups such as the Northern School for Autism and My Choice Support (NDIS), he’s inspired daily by the growth and joy he sees in others.
Jason, a key member of the garden team, shared:
“Damian brings so much positivity, helping people grow and bloom like the flowers.”
“He always makes time for a chat and ensures everyone feels welcomed and valued.”
“There’s never a dull day with Damian. His humour and laughter bring smiles and giggles all around.”
From Ildikó, who collaborates with Damian on the Budding Creatives project:
“We create our garden and art projects with great passion. Damian is a positive colleague, and I hope we’ll continue working together on new, exciting projects next year.”
For Damian, the garden represents peace, purpose, and community. “The gentleness of the garden lets us all be our true selves,” he says. “It’s like a big warm hug.”
Thanks to his energy, care, and heart, the LNH community garden continues to thrive and so do the people within it.
If you’d like to join Damian in the garden, we always have room for new volunteers! Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just keen to learn, everyone is welcome. Come grow with us! 🌿