In 2011, Coburg Community Gardening (changed shortly after to Moreland Community Gardening) had recently taken over management of the adjacent food forest, and while working on its rejuvenation they decided to put forward a proposal to take on the community garden as well. Their submission was successful, with their plan that proposed to:
– install a lower fence to make the garden more welcoming
– install a community composting hub
– improve the gathering area
– provide tools and lockable storage
– investigate rain water harvesting options
– install raised garden beds and stable paths to improve accessibility
– garden and grow food in a mixture of traditional private allotments and rotational communal gardening spaces
– run workshops and educational events
– provide propagation facilities
– host open days, plant sales, and food/plant swaps
– run regular working bees and seasonal social gatherings
– invite community groups to use the garden as a meeting space
The ultimate aim was to provide a space for residents to:
- Grow healthy, safe, affordable, organic food
- Share companionship, skills and knowledge
- Participate in and feel a part of their community
- Enhance their mental and physical well-being
- Learn to lead a more sustainable life