Fresh is best approach for community gardens

A small patch of ground in Springwood is helping to bring the community together and create employment opportunities.

The Little Vege Patch is one of 10 community gardens supported by Logan City Council where people can grow new friendships alongside an abundance of fruit and vegetables.

The garden, in Barbarella Drive, is making fresh produce accessible.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work trainees, hosted by ADRA Australia, recently worked in partnership with The Little Vege Patch to host trainees and help them complete their studies.

Over 5 months, 10 trainees worked at The Little Vege Patch as part of their theory modules and practical hours.

Councillor Lisa Bradley says the trainees also sprinkled a little bit of their different cultures into the garden.

‘The planting beds sprouted beautiful winter produce and the facades were painted in vibrant colours including a seat in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork,’ she says.

‘The program also helped generate employment for many of the trainees involved, including 2 who were recruited by Council’s Parks Branch.’

Cr Bradley wants to encourage the community to be involved in The Little Vege Patch.

‘It is a great way for residents to come together, improve their health and well-being and meet new people,’ she says.

‘Everyone is welcome and I encourage anyone interested to get involved.’

Cr Bradley also encourages people to visit the community garden in Underwood Park, which is stocked with a variety of herbs and vegetables including carrots, curry-leaf plants and cherry tomatoes.

‘As a plaque in the garden says – it is available for everyone to take a little, leave a lot, give a helping hand and pull a weed or 2,’ she says.

W: facebook.com/thelittlevegepatchatspringwood
P: 0473 024 328