Euroa’s edible garden springs into action

The start of Spring was heralded with a plant out at the opening of Currie Park’s edible garden.

Residents and staff at OCAV's Euroa village, together with local dignitaries, celebrated the opening of the John T Reid Charitable Trust edible garden by planting out spring vegetables and flowers.

The garden has been created thanks to a $10,000 grant from the philanthropic organisation.

Phillip Wohlers, CEO of Old Colonists’ Association of Victoria, said the grant was the latest generous support from the John T Reid Charitable Trust, adding that the Association has enjoyed a rewarding philanthropic relationship, beginning with a grant from John Reid himself in 1964.

The funding has enabled the construction of eight raised garden beds, shade and shelter, and planting of a range of herbs, fruits and vegetables and other plants.

According to Phillip Wohlers, the garden is much more than growing fruit and vegetables.

“It is creating a sense of community, a place where our 30 residents can come to chat, take time out, enjoy gentle exercise as they help to keep the weeds down before planting out new season vegetables,” he said.

Mr Wohlers said the garden was a living example of the Association’s Vision 2020.

“One of our three platforms for action is to ensure that we are a happy, healthy and vibrant community. There is no doubt that this garden contributes to our residents’ sense of well-being, keeping feelings of loneliness or anxiety at bay,” he said.

The garden has been designed to be accessible to everyone living in the village. With residents affected by arthritis or with limited mobility, the garden beds have been built waist-height so people don’t have to bend over; the walk ways are smooth and wide to allow wheel chairs and people using walking frames to move easily.

Caption: Jess Mills, John Mason, Deputy Mayor at Euroa and Iren Miskolczy inspect the garden.