Would you like to grow organic fruit and vegetables in a community setting and learn more about gardening and food production from other like-minded people? If so, the proposed Linde Community Garden is for you.

In February 2010, the Council approved a proposal to establish a Community Garden on the former artificial bowling green at Linde Reserve, Stepney. The project will be managed by the NP&SP Community Garden Association Inc. Council funding is being provided to prepare the site and establish the garden. Linde Community Garden will provide a meeting place and a venue for the sharing of ideas and skills and aims to foster a stronger sense of community.

Membership of the Association will be open to all but priority to work the garden plots will be given to City citizens and members of community groups which are located in the City. The Community Garden will operate as a shared communal facility although selected plots will be available to a smaller group of people with a special interest. A number of raised garden beds will allow for access for those with limited mobility and flexibility.

The proposal was developed by an Organising Committee of community members and local groups which was established at a Public Forum held in November 2009. At the Forum fifty people expressed interest in using a local community garden if it was established.

The Linde Community Garden is being incorporated into the Dunstone Grove/Linde Reserve Master Plan Project. It will expand the range of community facilities available in the City and enhance the community hub component of the Revitalising St Peters Project. If the site preparation works can be completed in time, planting could commence before summer.

The Community Garden will also be a model for good environmental practice by demonstrating ways to save water, reduce waste and promote biodiversity. The proposed Linde Reserve Stormwater Harvesting and Biofiltration System will provide for all irrigation and non-potable water requirements of the Community Garden.

Foundation membership is now available. To join, please email npsp.garden@gmail.com or write to PO Box 395 Stepney 5069.

For further information about community gardening in general, please go to http://www.communitygarden.org.au/