JUST two months from completion Bathurst’s community garden has drawn the attention of registered training organisation Verto.
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From Monday, a group of 10 to 12 job seekers will be undertaking a range of landscaping, paving, irrigation and building works to get the garden built.
“There is a lot of work to be done,” Verto chief executive officer Ron Maxwell said of the vacant 2678 square metre block of land.
“Job seekers will help to build the garden through work experience.”
While they will not be paid for the 15 hours a week they spend at the garden, Mr Maxwell said they would learn vital skills that could help them gain employment.
“It’s a good practical experience rather than sitting in the classroom,” he said.
“It gives them good practical skills, it’s really a work experience program and they can go on to find permanent and sustainable work.”
The job seekers will work under the direction of Bathurst Building Maintenance’s Steve Sharwood, a huge benefit according to Mr Maxwell.
“They can see it evolve and get a sense of accomplishment ... it helps with motivation,” he said.
“This project, and what it does for the community, is really going to be great.”
Councillor Bobby Bourke, the driving force behind the garden’s creation, said the location of the garden on the prime river flats off Church Lane offers a range of opportunities for community groups and individuals.
Already signed up to take part are Uniting Care’s disability program and local Wiradjuri community members, though Cr Bourke hopes more will join them.
The garden also offers the chance for individuals or retirees to share their skills with others, or sign up for a plot of their own.
Among the supporters of the garden is Reliance Credit Union, which has donated $3000 to help kick off the garden’s construction.
“It’s good to see community groups get together,” Reliance regional development manager Mark Haley said.
Cr Bourke said the community garden should be completed within the next two months, and there is still time to get involved.
Opportunities are available helping local community groups with their plots, running a plot or volunteering your time, expertise or services to the garden.
To find out more information contact Cr Bobby Bourke at the Bathurst Opportunity Shop on 6332 1799.