Triangle Park Community Teaching Garden is all about promoting gardening and healthy eating. Situated in Massey’s Triangle Park, this thriving community garden is managed by a dedicated bunch of people who share an interest in growing organic kai.
‘We aim to increase local opportunities to grow and learn about growing vegetables to provide fresh produce for local families,’ explains the Garden Coordinator, Janelle Blackmoore. She says that involves equipping people with self-sustaining skills that can be passed on to multiple generations.
‘We may be a small community garden, but we punch above our weight,’ declares Janelle. The community garden is open to all, and new members are always welcome. Free practical workshops on horticultural skills, composting, grafting, irrigation, and more are also available.
Open days are always a popular community event. With free workshops, cooking classes and a plant sale, open days are a fantastic way to learn more about the garden. The next one is planned for Saturday, 5 April, so be sure to put it in your diary now.
The garden is open on Wednesday and Saturday mornings between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. A core volunteer team of around 30 active members takes the lead on maintaining the garden, with other locals dropping in and helping out when they can. From planting to harvesting, composting, and pruning, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy.
The community teaching garden grows a wide variety of delicious vegetables all year round. And at this time of year, there’s an abundance of radishes, broad beans, silverbeet, celery, and lettuce. Fresh herbs, including basil and parsley, are also growing well.
Janelle says that any surplus vegetables are shared with local families in need through a partnership with Massey Matters. ‘Our delicious veggie packs go to those in need. It’s all about sharing veggies, sharing knowledge and sharing the love,’ declares Janelle.
The community garden received $10,000 from the Your West Support Fund. And the money has helped cover the costs of the Garden Coordinator. The role is crucial for keeping the whole show on the road and spreading the word about the great things happening in the garden.
Triangle Park Community Teaching Garden is located at 385 Don Buck Road. For more information or to get involved as a volunteer, check out the Facebook page.
