Two picnic tables have been installed beside the Maribyrnong River at Burndap Park to honour the legacy of Judy Ingram, a long-time volunteer and former president of Friends of the Maribyrnong Valley (FMV), who died in September last year.
The picnic tables were unveiled at a ceremony on Tuesday, February 11, attended by Ms Ingram’s family and friends, FMV members and representatives from both Maribyrnong and Brimbank councils.
Right up until her death, Ms Ingram devoted herself to the Maribyrnong Valley, serving 15 years as president of the FMV, planting thousands of trees and shrubs and helping transform it from a barren, weed-riddle landscape to a much loved inner-city oasis.
“It’s an emotional day” said her husband Ian Ingram of how he felt seeing his late wife being honoured.
Mr Ingram said she worked tirelessly to improve the Maribyrnong Valley and being at the memorial site in Burndap Park demonstrated just how much of a difference her efforts made.
“Just to walk in the park and see what Judy’s done. It’s something special. It really is.”
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari agreed.
“Judy’s efforts have left an incredible mark on the environment and the community, fostering a sense of pride among residents,” said Cr Tiwari said.
“I encourage the community to visit Burndap Park, enjoy the new facilities and reflect on the positive impact Judy had on the local environment.”
That impact extended beyond the Maribyrnong council area and into neighbouring Brimbank as well.
Representing Brimbank council at the ceremony, Cr Virginia Tachos said the tables and their location, perfectly commemorated her close friend.
“I think it’s a beautiful memorial,” she said.
“I feel Judy the most when I look at the trees and the flowing water so for me this epitomises who Judy is perfectly.”
Cr Tachos said Ms Ingram’s most admirable qualities were her selflessness, her directness and her tenacity.
“She was going through a very difficult time with her health but that never stopped her from engaging with the community — that’s what I respected most about her, she just kept going,” she said.
“She really gave her all to the community.”
