WHAT is a community garden? what does it take to keep it running? Who are the participants – what do they receive from it and what do they give in return? Last week, reporter Ellie Webster visited the gardens to give us a first-hand account of “A Redlands hidden gem.”
This was my first time visiting Oaklands Street Community Garden in Alexandra Hills. and after just a few hours I can proudly call it, a Redlands hidden gem.
The Community Garden is a not-for-profit group established in 2005 under the license of Redland City Council.
Since then, President Alison Hallett, who has been working in the garden for 14 years, explained the growth from a bare basketball court to a thriving garden featuring raised beds, swales, tropical fruit trees, flower beds, an orchard and a nursery.
These changes were evidenced by photos taken in 2010 and to my mind, were truly impressive.
As Alison guided me through the garden, she outlined its history and future projects which include items such as an additional water tank, shade plants, a potential maze or labyrinth and a shed overhead to keep things dry from rain.
As I ventured around the garden, it was heart-warming to see the number volunteers. These people form part of the core group of 20, and they were always looking for more volunteers to join their team. Many of the volunteers enjoy the incentive of taking home garden produce.
During my tour, I discovered a few interesting facts:
- The garden is 100% organic,
- The nursery is the powerhouse of the garden
- The pathways are wide enough for a wheelchair, walker, or scooter.
FAST FACTS: The Oaklands Street Community Garden is open Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to midday and Sunday from 2 – 5 pm.
Head to oaklandsstcommunitygardenqld.org to join their team and find out more.
