The initiative is being hailed as a big winner, with fresh fruit and vegies pouring off the production line each week. And with the peak summer growing season here, the procession of produce is set to take off at the River Road location.

Apart from the 20 people who have individual plots they ply with tender loving care, the community garden also has raised beds that cater for users with special needs.

Add to the mix the regular volunteer input from work for the dole participants at Verto, the generosity of local businesses and Councillor Bobby Bourke’s dedication to the project and you have a recipe for success that ticks all the boxes.

The garden was a mass of activity when the Western Advocate called in last week to see what all the fuss was about.

Cr Bourke was there getting his hands dirty, giving cheek and lending a helping hand to anyone needing some extra elbow grease. 

“We’re really up-and-running now,” he said. “The garden’s been open for about 18 months now and everyone seems to love it. We’ve even got a huge chicken coop, compost bins, a rotary hoe and a bank of tools anyone can borrow.

“But there’s still room if other people want to give it a go. Just call into the Op Shop, let us know you’re interested and away you go.”

Cr Bourke said Verto was a great help getting the community garden off the ground, with its work for the dole participants continuing to lend a helping hand.

“Reliance Credit Union, Bunnings and of course council, who donated the land, have also been key players,” he said. “The river flats are awesome for growing vegies. After the recent rain the tomatoes are going gangbusters.

“The place is fully fenced, but we haven’t found the need to lock it up. There’s a lot of community spirit going on down here. Everyone takes pride in what is being achieved and the neighbours next door keep an eye on things when no-one’s there.”

Maria Meyers from Verto said the community garden has allowed them to run a work for the dole pilot program.

“It’s been a way of integrating those involved into the local community,” she said. “It allows them to learn new skills which can potentially help them prepare for work. It’s a great idea. We love it.”

Jami-Lee Single from Interchange has special needs young people who are regulars at the community garden, working on their three raised beds.

“What we grow, we pick and eat,” she said. “It helps those involved understand how the seasons work and what vegetables can be grown at different times of the year.

“We’ve grown carrots, spring onions, normal onions, lettuce, parsley, spinach, beetroot and everyone loves to nibble on the carrots and beans.

“Now we are planning our tactics for a summer crop and that means tomatoes and strawberries for a start. We make wraps for lunch. Our aim is to grow vegies to put on those to save having to buy them.”