Retirement for Bourke’s hard-working gardener

Peter Sharpe at back, far right, at his farewell with other health service staff members: Dr Chantal McGrath, Dr Fasiha Sadaf, Tracey Coyne, Stephanie Lowe and Peter’s wife Lee Sharpe. Photo: TWH

One of Bourke’s long standing citizens is about to find out what life is like in retirement — and he’s already prepared for the extra workload! Peter Sharpe is finally hanging up his rakes and unplugging the lawnmowers after almost a decade working on the grounds of the Rural and Remote Medical Services premises in Darling Street.

His dedicated work there follows 21 years as gardener and groundsman at the Bourke Hospital, a place renowned for its green lawns and impeccable gardens — largely a result of Peter’s efforts.

Last Friday, Peter finished his final shift at RaRMS and this week has been enjoying the heartfelt thanks of the community as it farewells him from the workforce.

Peter is not expecting to put his feet up in retirement though.

Read more in the printed edition of the Western Herald.