The beauty and grace of dancing butterflies have long symbolised unrestrained freedom. Capturing this spirit, the Environmental Association has created eight butterfly gardens in the outdoor spaces of Link’s shopping centres, offering urbanites a tranquil sanctuary to observe enchanting butterflies amidst the urban rush. These oases of serenity where humans and nature coexist in harmony are imbued with the dedication, hard work and energy of the gardens’ volunteer team. Channel 823 interviewed three of its members, delving into the personal journeys and untold stories of these devoted volunteers.

Family participation in the butterfly garden brings more joy

Husband and wife Johnson and Regina are avid nature lovers. What started out as shared hikes through the countryside grew into a mutual fascination with the flora and fauna, leading them to become members of the volunteer team. Their journey of acquiring professional knowledge has even turned them into ecological conservation ambassadors in their community, enriching their family life with the delicate beauty of butterflies.

“Now that our children are grown and we’re retired, we have more time for our own interests,” said Johnson. “Joining the volunteer team has given us so much more to talk about. Before, work took up our time and we seldom participated in social activities together. However, the butterfly garden has introduced us to people who share our interests, expanding our social circle.”

Regina commended Johnson’s unwavering enthusiasm and commitment to the butterfly garden. Regardless of the weather, he tends to the butterfly garden several times a month. Johnson, in turn, is inspired by Regina’s meticulousness: “She’s created a personal butterfly catalogue, combining her classroom notes with extensive research and photographs. Every time we visit the butterfly garden, we bring the catalogue and, whenever possible, introduce other visitors to the garden and its various butterfly species. When visitors ‘complain’ about the absence of butterflies, we pull out the catalogue and show them the diverse array of butterflies that have fluttered through this place.”

Inspired by their parents’ pursuit of new interests and their newfound sense of purpose in retirement, Johnson and Regina’s children have also contributed their skills to the butterfly garden. As Johnson and Regina shared, “Our venture into painting started with volunteer classes, aimed at beautifying the butterfly garden. However, when we tried to paint here, we grew concerned about our artistic abilities. So our children stepped in to help, creating some of the paintings. The cat in this drawing is a ‘resident’ of the butterfly garden’s podium; we see it come and go every now and then.”

“Our initial goal was to enrich our lives in retirement, but this past year has exceeded our expectations. Not only have we gained valuable professional knowledge about flora and fauna, but our family has also made lasting memories within this tranquil haven,” Regina reflected. “We’re committed to continuing our work; learning, improving and constantly striving to do better.”

Mrs Kuen: Inviting neighbours to help enhance the community

Mrs Kuen, 72, is affectionately known as the “old darling” of the volunteer group. Her fellow volunteers frequently express their concern for her safety, reminding her to tread carefully as she goes through the garden. On the day of the interview, she was climbing up and down, pruning branches, picking up rubbish and watering flowers. “They’re worried about me stumbling, but I know my body’s capabilities. Regular exercise helps me stay fit for these tasks.”

Mrs Kuen, who lives near the butterfly garden she lovingly maintains, often encourages her neighbours to help care for this communal space. “When I talk to my neighbours who are about my age, I often sense their melancholy and loneliness. Many are reluctant to step out of their homes. I’ve always been more outgoing and I encourage them to seek out joy for themselves. I tell them age is just a number and we should embrace it! Volunteering here at the butterfly garden allows you to learn new skills and connect with other volunteers and young people. You’ll naturally feel better.”

It was a winter’s day when the interview took place. The garden’s foliage was sparse compared to the lush growth of spring or summer. However, butterflies still visited. “Butterflies get ‘lazier’ in the cold. With more warmth and sunlight, they’d almost certainly stay to rest or find food. In reality, butterflies can find the butterfly garden on their own. As long as we care for the garden, they will be drawn to stay.”

When winter turns to spring, Mrs Kuen and her fellow volunteers plan to revitalise the garden: “We’ve discussed planting vibrant flora to attract more butterflies.” She also extends an open invitation to her neighbours: “There’s plenty to do, from tidying and cleaning to replanting. I’ll call on my friends and neighbours. Even those who are not in the volunteer group but want to help beautify our community are welcome.”

Mrs Kuen is cheerful and enjoys sharing her joy with others. As she explained, she has one small wish for the butterfly garden: “I hope we can have outdoor butterfly workshops here, where volunteers can share their knowledge of botany and butterflies with the younger generation. It’s crucial to cultivate an understanding of environmental conservation and sustainability from a young age.”

Link has established eight butterfly gardens over the past few years at Choi Yuen Plaza, Fu Shin Shopping Centre, Tin Chak Shopping Centre, Kai Tin Shopping Centre, Choi Ming Shopping Centre, Chung On Shopping Centre, Sau Mau Ping Shopping Centre and Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre. Over the next two years, additional butterfly gardens will be built, ultimately creating an extensive network of sanctuaries for butterflies to feed and rest. These eco-friendly efforts will also contribute to the enrichment of Hong Kong’s biodiversity.

Tips for butterfly appreciation by the volunteer team