Capricorn Coast gardens renamed to honour Tom Wyatt legacy

Published on 03 June 2026

Livingstone Shire Council has formally acknowledged the renaming of the Capricorn Coast Tom Wyatt Memorial Gardens following a special morning tea held onsite with Councillors, family members and close friends of the late Tom Wyatt.

The gathering honoured Mr Wyatt’s extraordinary contribution to the Capricorn Coast and broader Central Queensland community, celebrating a legacy shaped by his passion for horticulture, public spaces and community connection.

Mayor Adam Belot said the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact Tom had on the region and the many lives he touched.

“Tom Wyatt was a passionate advocate for green spaces that brought people together,” Mayor Belot said.

“He believed gardens should be welcoming, accessible places where families could gather, people could reflect and communities could connect with nature.

“The renaming of the Capricorn Coast Tom Wyatt Memorial Gardens ensures his contribution to our region will continue to be recognised and remembered for generations to come.”

Mr Wyatt served the Capricorn Coast community as a divisional councillor with Rockhampton Regional Council prior to deamalgamation and later as a councillor with the re-established Livingstone Shire Council from 2014 to 2020. He was widely respected across Central Queensland for his lifelong dedication to horticulture, environmental stewardship and community wellbeing.

Across a career spanning more than four decades, he helped shape many treasured public spaces and became a familiar and trusted voice to Queenslanders through ABC Radio’s Gardening Talkback program.

Mayor Belot said the memorial gardens were a fitting place to honour Mr Wyatt’s vision and values.

“These gardens reflect the philosophy Tom championed throughout his life — spaces that are peaceful, community-focused and filled with natural beauty,” he said.

“It was wonderful to welcome Tom’s family and close friends to share memories, celebrate his achievements and acknowledge the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.”

Tom's son, Allen Wyatt, said the recognition would have deeply humbled his father.

“Dad never did anything for recognition or accolades, so he would be very humbled by this honour,” Mr Wyatt said.

“Our family is incredibly grateful to Livingstone Shire Council and the community for recognising him in this way. This beautiful place reflects everything he loved, including nature, community and creating spaces for people to enjoy.

“This is Dad all over, surrounded by nature, birds and quiet reflection. It’s very special to see his legacy remembered here.”

The Capricorn Coast Tom Wyatt Memorial Gardens will continue to serve as a place of reflection, remembrance and connection for residents and visitors alike.