Just off Farmer Street in between the North Perth Bowling and Tennis Clubs, on what was a piece of disused local government land, sits the new North Perth Community Garden. The project, sponsored by the City of Vincent, was first conceived over 10 years ago but the lack of a suitable site and group of volunteers to lead it meant that it sat on the Council’s development agenda as part of the Woodville Masterplan – until now.
In the last few months a steering committee of 11 dedicated residents have been hard at work transforming the formerly barren piece of dirt into a number of rentable and shared community garden plots, complete with top grade organic soil and reticulation off the Tennis Club’s bore.
It’s hoped that the garden will become a meeting place for locals where they can hang out, share stories and friendship over some hard (or not so) work and reap the rewards of fresh and lovingly grown seasonal produce. Colin Scott, the President, is at pains to point out that the garden will be an inclusive space that welcomes City of Vincent residents and ratepayers of all ages and backgrounds.
Interested local residents and ratepayers can get involved in the garden in two ways:
- by renting and tending to one of 36 individual allotments at the cost of approximately $10 per month for a 12 month season; or
- by contributing to the planting and maintenance of the two shared community plots from which they’ll be entitled to harvest produce
Individual plots will be allocated on a “first come, first served” and it’s expected that applications will exceed supply. Garden members will be entitled to attend meetings and vote on the Community Garden matters, nominate for office bearing positions and are expected to contribute to busy bees to ensure the overall garden’s maintenance.
In addition to the garden, the City of Vincent has other plans for the Farmer Street space. Soon it will be joined by a Men’s Shed followed by a new Multicultural Senior Citizens Centre. The result should be a buzzing community hub that supports fellowship and community for a wide range of local residents.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the garden email [email protected] or call the City of Vincent and ask for the Development Office.
I’m looking forward to re-visiting and seeing the garden’s progress in a few month’s time!
What do you think about community gardens? Great idea or passing fad? Where else in out local suburbs would you like to see a community garden started?
