News

Joe's Gardens Spring New Life at Mayflower Reservoir

Published
March 13, 2025

Joe is an active and cherished resident at Mayflower Reservoir known for his kindness. 

As a dedicated Jehovah’s Witness for over 54 years, Joe channels his faith into acts of kindness and generosity, notably through his love of gardening. 

He meticulously cares for ten raised garden beds scattered across Mayflower Reservoir's grounds, cultivating an impressive array of fresh produce, including peas, broad beans, lettuce, carrots, silverbeet, and celery. 

A raised garden bed filled with different vegetables, including lettuce, carrots and more
Joe's raised garden beds a filled with seasonal herbs and vegetables, available for anyone to taste, touch and enjoy.

A good Harvest

Joe delights in sharing his harvest with fellow residents, “when I see people eating them, I feel so good. It’s like I give something back,” says Joe.

Joe works closely with Mayflower’s gardener, offering his years of wisdom and experience to keep the gardens thriving. He has even created a beautiful flowerbed, encouraging fellow residents to enjoy its care and beauty.

Beyond his gardening passion, Joe’s life is rich with stories of transformation. 

Joe keeps his memories close to his heart with photos of his loved ones on the walls and shelves of his room. Pictured here is his beautiful late wife.

A changed Man

Once a gambler and club owner, Joe turned his life around after embracing his faith, dedicating himself to living healthily and supporting others.

Joe’s faith continues to inspire him, and he warmly invites fellow residents to visit him for a chat about the Bible and to enjoy a freshly brewed Vivo espresso from his coffee machine.

A devoted family man, Joe takes pride in his 7 children and 8 grandchildren. Despite personal losses, including his wife and 3 sons, Joe remains a vibrant presence in the Mayflower community, sharing his time, wisdom, and kindness with all around him.

Mayflower is the Place to Be

Joe is glad he chose Mayflower Reservoir as his new home. He enjoys the good company, freshly made meals and the newly built residence, “it's beautiful company. It's a beautiful place. New, clean. That's the number one thing for me, that it is clean," says Joe.

a raised garden bed filled with flower plants
The flower bed Joe planted, "for the ladies to enjoy and to take care of," says Joe.