Mercy Connect garden honours passionate worker

Geoff Bartel worked at the organisation for eight years and co-ordinated a number of programs - particularly those based around the outdoors.

Mr Bartel died in August, and it was decided a part of the new garden would be dedicated to him.

His wife Vicki attended the garden opening, to help chief executive Trent Dean plant a Manchurian pear tree in memory of her late husband.

"He absolutely loved working here," Mrs Bartel said.

"He used to be a bricklayer and he changed to this; it was his calling and he should have done it years ago.

"He liked helping the participants find a purpose."

Mr Dean said Mr Bartel was "devoted" and it was a pleasure to honour his memory through the garden at Thurgoona.

"This project aims to increase overall community engagement and sustainability," he said.

"We're very pleased to have the preschool and primary school next door to work with our participants.

"There's a range of activities run here locally.

"Some participants live here, some travel in for the day and come to work on different programs, whether it's using composting or using the equipment."

Fifty people attended the opening which coincided with the release of Mercy Connect's 2018-2019 annual report.

Board chair Michael O'Callaghan said the not-for-profit catholic organisation was sponsored by the Institute of Sisters of Mercy and delivered programs under the NDIS.

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"We provide a range of services supporting adults, children and older people with a disability to live independently, and be actively involved in the community," he said. "We give support to 150 participants across Albury, Orange, and Narrabri."

Mercy Connect was formerly the Mercy Centre, before a re-branding in 2016.

Mr Dean took over the role of chief executive three months ago, after leaving the Royal Flying Doctors Service and relocating from Queensland.

"We really want this to be a community hub; I have big plans," he said.