Recently I received an email from Sam, the Electorate Officer from the Office of Kat Theophanous, MP, and Member for Northcote. Gerard had met with her recently in regard to the VASS Project. The email had a link to Kat’s recent Members Statement made in State Parliament on October 13th paying tribute to Gerard’s life and work on the Food Forest project . It also recognised Vince Pirrottina, Gerard’s Colleague on the VASS Steering Committee. Kat’s statement said:
VALE GERARD STEVENSON & VINCE PIRROTTINA
It was only a couple of short weeks ago that I met with Gerard to hear about an incredible project he was spearheading with Global Gardens of Peace and award winning landscape architect Andrew Laidlaw, to create a Food Forest Garden for the residents of VASS in Thornbury.
VASS is a specialist residential facility in Thornbury that supports people who rely on a ventilator to breathe.
A resident of VASS himself, Gerard wanted to create a unique space that would be a source of fresh food and connection to nature – lifting the spirits and supporting the wellbeing of residents, staff and visitors.
Gerard sadly passed before his vision could be brought to fruition. But I know that everyone involved remains committed to the project.
While Gerard may never be able to sit quietly and relax with his family in the garden as he dreamed, his visions, passion and dedication will leave a legacy that will change the lives of VASS residents for decades to come.
Sadly, VASS and has lost another member of their close community, in the passing of Vince Pirrottina.
You can read her contribution full statement here – https://www.kattheophanous.com.au/parliament-blog/vale-gerard-stevenson-and-vince-pirrottina
Super proud of Gerard and thrilled that he has been recognised.