Thursday, 20 March 2025

Avondale Heights Community Garden

Ben CARROLL (Niddrie – Minister for Education, Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC) (09:37): I had the pleasure of heading down to a hidden gem in my electorate on Sunday, the Avondale Heights Community Garden, for their very special open day. It was very cold and very wet, but the organisers persisted, and there were plenty of umbrellas. It was a wonderful event for everyone and part of the family of our local community – food, kids activities, live music, lots of produce and homemade crafts to purchase. The event on Sunday was fantastic. The coffee van was a key feature given how cold it was on last Sunday.

The event hosted stalls run by community groups to share information on what they are passionate about and ways for people to get involved. One such community group that was present was the information stall hosted by Moonee Valley Sustainability, an environmentally focused group. They are ensuring that our local community’s flora and fauna stays protected for the whole community and constituents can enjoy it for many generations to come. There was a resident beekeeper reminding us all of the complicated process required for one of our favourite treats as well as much knowledge on the garden and lots of things to see – a thriving garden. The big highlight was Ellen James topping off the day with some musical stylings and some wonderful music right through the rain to ensure everyone had a good time. Thank you to the Avondale Heights Community Garden members for putting on such a great event. To the volunteers, to Jane Canaway the secretary and to Sam Fichera the president, you have done a great job at the Avondale Heights Community Garden. It really is a hidden gem in Avondale Heights, and it is one of those community gardens that will pay off for many generations to come.