A PIECE of Port Macquarie's history has been resurrected by a dedicated group of community members, with assistance from businesses and council.
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Mrs York's Garden on the corner of Grant and Stewart streets was originally started by Bertha York in the 1960s.
It became such a showpiece that wedding couples would travel many miles to use its pergola as the backdrop for their nuptials.
People would even send cuttings to Mrs York to add to the showpiece garden.
Unfortunately, it had grown into disrepair.
York family members, concerned community members and Friends of Mrs York's Garden (FOMYG) have brought it back to life.
On Wednesday, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council mayor Peter Besseling helped unveil an information sign donated by council to mark the end of the first stage of the garden's continuing restoration.
Community coordinator for FOMYG Di Davison thanked the those who had supported their labour of love to rebuild it.
"Landcare has provided some plants and Paul from Tree Fella has donated all the mulch," Ms Davison said.
"Grant from Grow Lush has given us soil and we had help from Quota Club, Rotary and Lions, the Garden Club and Port Macquarie Primary School students who will continue to look after their plantings."
Cr Besseling said council had provided a little support through grant money, but the efforts of everyone involved in the project were "a great example of council's Place Making initiative".
"The outcome is excellent for the community," he said.
Mrs York's granddaughter Julie Midson spoke on behalf of the family, citing her grandmother's "never give up" attitude. "To those of you who continue with the project, keep your spirits high and your backs to the task," Mrs Midson said.
Granddaughter Glenys Pearson said she had inherited her grandmother's love of gardening and hard work.
"Along with a dedicated group of energetic friends, we are committed to making the garden a special place for all to enjoy.
"A heartfelt thanks to the friends of the garden for their enormous effort that will give so much back, is so many ways, to the community."