GGAA 2011 - Student Initiatives & Campaigns - Curtin University - Highly Commended

Community Veggie Garden

From an empty sandy space, and with only a volunteer staff member for support, a 600m2 community vegie garden has been thriving since 2007 at the largest on‐campus student residence within Curtin University. The garden is supported by hundreds of student volunteers, who have planted citrus, fig, stone fruit, olive, and almond trees; grape vines; as well as many Asian herbs and vegetables; reflecting the diversity of the students’ country of origin.

Students have also seen keen interest and support from many departments within the university and visits by the general public. World Environment Day was celebrated on campus, with staff and students interacting for a healthy BBQ that showcased the garden’s produce. The main outcomes and benefits of the garden are the social interaction and friendship that this project is creating among international students who sometimes find it difficult to adapt to a new country’s customs and way of life. Gardening and cooking are two great ways to actively engage with each other.

Videos

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