Hugh Spratling's 43 years of service was recently honoured by naming the nursery he helped grow after him upon his retirement.
Hugh's green thumb has helped shape Manningham's parks and reserves for more than 4 decades, nurturing more than half a million plants and preparing the native species given to recipients at our citizenship ceremonies.
Thanks to his efforts, most of the trees and plants in Manningham's nursery are now sourced locally - providing value for money for our community, increasing biodiversity, strengthening our urban forest and encouraging native fauna.
Reflecting on his career, Hugh said his favourite plants were those grown from local seed, collected in our reserves and carefully nurtured in the nursery ready to return to the very landscapes they came from.
"I've loved working in a field I enjoy, with colleagues I respect. I'm proud of the indigenous plantings I've grown from seed that now thrive across Manningham," said Mr Spratling.
Our CEO Andrew Day said Hugh's story embodies our culture of people making a meaningful impact through their work.
"I have been asked if I could swap jobs with anyone at Council who would it be, and Hughey's nursery role comes front of mind," Mr Day said.
"Hugh's story is one of resilience, contribution, and community spirit. He reminds us that inclusion, opportunity and connection enrich our workplace and community. His work has literally shaped the landscape of Manningham," Mr Day said.
To discover Hugh's legacy in full bloom at one of Manningham's parks, reserves or playgrounds.
