Ripples of Hope

Last week, I had the privilege of attending a walking tour showcasing the legacy and impact of Jeff Robinson on the built environment of Melbourne.

We explored several of the projects he worked on and visited places he cherished. It was an amazing experience, hearing stories of how Jeff impacted so many lives and how he was a true force of life.

I only met Jeff briefly last year, but even that short interaction left a lasting impression on me. It's rare to meet someone who can profoundly influence so many people. Throughout the day, many people used Jeff’s name as a verb, inspiring us to "be Jeff" and do as he did for others. This is an assignment we carry forward, embodying his spirit in our actions.

His loss was tragic, passing away still in the prime of his life. Despite this, his family has opened their hearts, sharing memories and listening to others’ experiences. Talking to them, I could only imagine the depth of their loss, yet they continue to celebrate his life and inspire others, ensuring his ripples of hope endure.

It was an honour to be part of this event. Special thanks to Dr Dominique Hes and Cristina Hernández Santín, my dear friends and mentors, and all the speakers and members of the Melbourne Regenerative Design Forum for organising the walk.

One powerful takeaway was a quote from Jeff: "In challenging environments, rely on people because enthusiasm is the one thing that cannot be ignored."

I am truly grateful to everyone who shared their stories and experiences. I hope the path of such great work will continue, inspired by Jeff Robinson's legacy.