FAQs

A community garden/food hub is a shared space where people come together to collectively grow plants, vegetables, and flowers. According to the Community Garden/Food Hub brief, there are two main types:

• Shared gardens: Gardeners work together to care for the entire garden and share the produce.
• Allotment gardens: Individuals maintain their own plots.
  Beyond growing food, these gardens serve as hubs for learning, social interaction, and community building. They host workshops, educational programs, and events that foster sustainable living and community engagement.

The proposed garden is designed to complement and collaborate with existing community gardens in Armidale, not compete with them. The aim is to foster partnerships, share resources, and create opportunities for joint workshops and events. By integrating with other gardens, the new hub will help build a network of green spaces that support food security, education, and social connection across the region.

Participation is open to all community members, including residents, schools, local businesses, and community groups. The documents recommend forming a garden committee or cooperative to oversee operations and ensure broad representation. Schools can use the garden for curriculum-linked activities, and local organisations can host workshops or contribute resources. The garden will be accessible to people of all ages and abilities, with infrastructure designed to support inclusive participation.

The benefits are extensive and well-documented:

• Environmental Sustainability: Urban greening, increased biodiversity, composting, and reduction of urban heat islands.
• Health & Wellness: Gardening provides physical exercise, improves mental health, and increases access to fresh, nutritious food.
• Social Cohesion: The garden will be a social hub, fostering relationships, community engagement, and a sense of belonging.
• Educational Opportunities: Workshops on gardening, permaculture, cooking, and sustainability; hands-on learning for students.
• Economic Advantages: Affordable produce, potential for social enterprise (selling produce, seedlings, compost), and increased property values.

Site selection was based on criteria from Community Gardens Australia, focusing on suitability, accessibility, infrastructure, and community use.

• 253 Donnelly St scored highest in assessments for flood safety, water access (well), available area, zoning for community use, and utility services (water, sewer, electricity).
• The site is accessible by bus, cycleway, pedestrian, and motor vehicle, and is classified as community land under the Local Government Act 1993, making it ideal for public use.
• The location supports integration with other community organisations and future growth areas.

You can participate in the simple yes/no survey below. Council is seeking broad community input to ensure the garden reflects local needs and aspirations. Your feedback will help shape the design, operations, and partnerships for the new garden.