Digging In and Growing Together: A Look at the Leongatha Community Garden

Neil BARRETT
May 27
2 min read

The Leongatha Community Garden's latest brochure highlights a wonderful hub where connection, sustainability, and fresh produce flourish. It's clear that this isn't just about gardening; it's about building a stronger, greener community, one seed and smile at a time.

More Than Just a Garden: The Commons

A key theme in the brochure is the concept of "The Commons". This emerging space, alongside the traditional garden plots, exemplifies the heart of South Gippsland's green spirit, showcasing an innovative and inclusive approach with a profound sense of community. The Leongatha Community Garden President emphasises that the bed replacement project and the Commons represent a commitment to nurturing beauty, sustainability, and community, seeing it as an investment in the future.

Benefits of Joining: Grow, Connect, Flourish!

The brochure clearly outlines six compelling reasons to join the Leongatha Community Garden:

Save Money & Eat Fresh: Members can grow their own vegetables, reducing grocery bills and enjoying nutrient-rich, homegrown produce.
Boost Sustainability: The garden promotes learning eco-friendly practices, reducing food miles, and nurturing local biodiversity.
Build Community: It's a place to connect with neighbours through workshops, shared meals, and collaborative projects.
Learn & Share Skills: Various workshops on gardening, cooking, and sustainability are available for all skill levels.
Access Weekly Markets: Fresh eggs, flowers, preserves, and seasonal harvests are available at a weekly market.
Nourish Wellbeing: Participants can enjoy outdoor activity, mental relaxation, and the pride of contributing to a greener future.

Membership Options: Something for Everyone

Whether you want have your own plot or simply want to support the initiative, there's a membership option for you.

Friend of the Garden: For just $15, you can enjoy perks like discounts at the weekly Cluck 'n Collect market, free workshops, garden BBQs, and events, all while supporting this green oasis without needing your own plot.
Garden Enthusiast Package: This package, from $15 plus a $45 plot fee, is for those ready to delve deeper into sustainable living and community connection. It includes access to a raised garden bed plot, The Commons membership and participation in workshops, harvest festivals, and eco-projects. Benefits include a new productive raised garden bed, access to free compost and organic soil, and on-site tools and equipment.

Cluck 'n Collect and More!

The popular "Cluck 'n Collect" is held every Thursday at the Garden from 3:15 pm until 5:30 pm, selling eggs, veggies, and flowers. The garden also has a culinary group that unites food lovers to craft vibrant dishes with fresh, local ingredients, sharing recipes and nourishing meals.

The Leongatha Community Garden is fast becoming an inspiring hub that unites gardeners, neighbours, and eco-enthusiasts dedicated to cultivating plants, connections, and a greener future. It's open to all ages and backgrounds, fostering environmental health, resilience, and neighbourly bonds.

For more information, you can visit www.gathacg.com or contact Neil Barrett at 0438 888 380 or gathacg@gmail.com.