About Kevin Hoffman
Kevin Hoffman was a man of vision, dedication, and passion whose life’s work created a legacy that continues to inspire and enrich the Lara community. His journey, marked by creativity, hard work and a deep love for nature, shaped the Kevin Hoffman Walk into the sanctuary it is today.
Kevin’s Early Years
Kevin left school at the age of 14 to help support his mother and younger siblings. He worked various odd jobs before securing a position at International Harvester as a machine setter, and later as an industrial photographer. It was during this time that Kevin developed a passion for photography, joining the Geelong Camera Club in 1964 and later the Melbourne Camera Club. His talent quickly blossomed, and he became a passionate and locally acclaimed photographer in Geelong. Working with well-known Geelong photographer Ian Hawthorne, Kevin captured weddings, portraits, and commercial images, also taking part in the printing process.
Kevin’s photography achievements included an exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria in 1978, where his work was displayed for two months, and the inclusion of four of his photos in the gallery’s permanent collection. Another exhibition followed in 1985 at the Geelong Gallery.
A New Home in Lara
In 1967, Kevin and his wife Beverley, who were married in March 1966, purchased a block of land in Wingara Drive, Lara. The couple soon began caring for the ironbark trees planted along Hovells Creek by the original developer, Ian McLean Turner. Initially, they hauled water from the creek in buckets to nurture the young trees, which were only about two feet high when they moved into their completed home in January 1970. At one stage, they thought of getting a generator, to pump the water up from the creek, but unfortunately, testing revealed the water was too brackish for irrigation, adding another challenge to their efforts.
Kevin’s passion for gardening and landscaping began to take over his life. He left his photography career and started working for Lino Bisinella at a private residence in Lara. Beginning at ground level, Kevin cleared the land, brought in soil, rocks, and plants, and landscaped the area. He held this position for around three years before moving on to Werribee Park, where he worked in the gardens for the next 21 years.
The Garden Begins to Take Shape
During this time, Kevin also started beautifying the creek area opposite his Wingara Drive property. After water was connected to the area, he approached the Corio Shire for gardening supplies and tirelessly transformed the space over the following 45 years. Kevin had no formal horticultural training but was an avid learner. He researched extensively, attended meetings of the Australian Plants Society Geelong (formerly the Society of Native Plants), and exchanged knowledge with like-minded enthusiasts. Kevin’s innovative gardening approach emphasised shades of green, ensuring that even when flowers were not in bloom, the garden offered visual appeal.
Kevin’s work culminated in the creation of the Kevin Hoffman Walk, a peaceful haven designed for people to wander, listen to the birds, and enjoy the serenity of nature. He also wanted to inspire visitors to recreate similar native gardens on a smaller scale in their own homes.
A Lasting Legacy
In 2012, Kevin faced a significant health scare, just days before the iconic sail sculptures at Walkers Road were completed. Although his capacity to work on the Walk diminished, his vision for its future remained steadfast. To support his efforts, the Friends of Kevin Hoffman Walk was formed in late 2013. This group of dedicated volunteers ensured the ongoing care and maintenance of the Walk while also securing grants for essential works.
In early 2017, Kevin suffered a stroke, which prevented him from physically working on the Walk. Nevertheless, he maintained an active role, sharing his insights and advice with the Friends committee. His strong relationships with the group allowed his influence to endure, even as his health declined.
Kevin passed away in September 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy for the Lara community. His vision, dedication, and tireless efforts have made the Kevin Hoffman Walk a treasured sanctuary that continues to bring joy, peace, and inspiration to all who visit.
Kevin Hoffman: 22/12/1939 – 28/09/2024
