By Alesha Capone
Christine Mak has been recognised with a Lalor Hero Award for her role as a volunteer leader at Werribee Park Heritage Orchard (WPHO).
Lalor MP Joanne Ryan recently presented Ms Mak with the award, which acknowledges residents and groups who “go above and beyond” to help the community.
Ms Mak, who lives in West Footscray, said it was an honour to receive the award.
“It is really a team effort at the orchard – I help to organise the activities, but it is the hard work and dedication of our members to make things happen at the orchard,” she said.
A group of volunteers maintains the orchard, which dates back to the 1870s and features less-common species of fruit trees.
The WPHO volunteers also research heritage trees and host school visits at the orchard.
They run twice-yearly grafting and sales days, along with other fundraising activates, to raise money for their activities.
Ms Mak said she began volunteering at the orchard after attending a Winter Grafting Day in 2016 and joined the WPHO committee in 2017.
As well, she has served on the Grafting Day subcommittee, and as nursery coordinator and vice president.
“The major focus of WPHO is to preserve heritage varieties of fruit trees and fruiting plants,” Ms Mak said.
“This is the work that I enjoy most.”
Ms Mak is also employed full-time as a chemist, in addition to her volunteer work at the orchard.
Her fellow WPHO volunteer John Marks said that during Ms Mak’s time at the orchard, she has upgraded many records, procedures and communication measures within the volunteer group.
“She is the heart and soul of WPHO, a dedicated hard worker, popular and deserving of the award,” Mr Marks said.
Ms Mak described the heritage orchard as her “happy place”.
“I often go to the orchard when I finish work on Saturday afternoon,” she added.
“It is the best spot to relax and unwind.
“I would like to invite everyone to visit WPHO, to join us on Friday morning(s) for an orchard session or to explore Werribee Park at your leisure.
‘It is such a hidden gem in the city of Wyndham.”
Details: werribeeparkheritageorchard.org.au/
