Shona Roberts - The Organic Market Gardening Collective
Our speaker, Shona Roberts from the Organic Market Gardening Collective at 257 Symonds St., then described what had been achieved there over the last 5 years. The temporary little garden site of 450 sq. m. is producing enough vegetables to be harvested twice a week for the local community.
Restorative Organic Farming is aimed at improving the ecosystem with health as the prime driver. Our current farming practices are harming the environment. Educational workshops are designed to counter these practices, focussing on such issues as
- Vulnerability to climate change
- Biodiversity
- Nutrient rich food
- No food waste
- Protecting the bees
There is ongoing mentoring for 150 current alumni of the programme, and Wednesday afternoon working bees – all welcome. Future plans include the establishment of a new secure tenure farm at Henderson.
“OMG believe that people have the power to address some of the most pressing challenges we face. The threat of climate change, food security, health inequity, and ecosystem damage can be tackled with restorative horticultural practices that are better for both people and the planet. We grow – and help others grow – radical hope through food.”
Shona responded well to some vigorous questionning – are we going to go along for a visit some time? In the meantime, financial support welcome:
Malcolm Stapleton, President of the Parnell Rotary Club, then spoke of the community garden they are establishing in Parnell in association with the Grace Foundation. They have an old Housing Corporation former house site and are well advanced with the planning, fruit trees and all. An ambitious and challenging project for their Club this Rotary year, and beyond.Our own Mike Bryan then described the new vegetable garden established at Epsom Lodge, providing an incentive for the residents there to develop their gardening skills. Returning to the former garden area the new beds are in place with a couple of monthly working bees lined up for a Wednesday and a Saturday. Contact Mike for details – volunteers from the Club most welcome.