Bush Tucker Launch

On Wednesday the 23rd of January we had a wonderful day as the launch of the Bush Tucker Garden was officially opened. So many people from the community came to celebrate with us and we are very thankful for all who came.

Terry, Cliff, Lindy and Anthony

There was music, colour and so much that contributed to the atmosphere.

Anthony AKA Spud doing welcome to country

The Elders who came and enjoyed the day

It was also wonderful through modern technology to have Angela as a part of the day

We also had a visit from out little friends from around the corner

The animals from Symbio was also a big hit with kids and adults.

For me, it was a great day that made me feel proud to be a part of the garden and my hope is that the garden will became an outdoor classroom for all. Here are some words from other garden members about the day.

It was really fantastic and the people who I talked to really enjoyed it and were really pleased to see good use of this open space.- Martie

Symbio was good and so was the  sport and rec girls. I was surprised so many people turned up. -  Cliff Lovelace.

I was so pleased to see the smiles on the faces of the elders; the best justification for the idea of the project. I hope they will become involved in the future - Cliff Ball

The bush tucker launch was a very emotional experience for me. It highlighted the potential for the bush tucker garden space to be a place of gathering and reconciliation. So much positive energy flowed throughout the day that it surely must be the beginning of a new and fruitful journey for the local community - Angela Dever

As a volunteer community gardener and supervisor of Access Community Group Work and Development Orders program I am very proud to be a part of this wonderful journey at Barrack Heights Community Garden. 
It allows me to explore and learn everyday with and from other gardeners and community members within the "Fair Share" ethos of permaculture. 
It is pleasing to obtain the valuable assistance of volunteers and also assist them to reduce State Debt Recovery Office debt and witness them being able to open new doors in their lives - Darren Bell

The garden was built around friendship, enthusiasm as well as sharing knowledge. A massive team effort by everyone involved.
T-ogether
E-veryone
A-chieves
M-ore 
 Terry Rankmore

Ilawarra Mercury

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Walking Track

So many great things are happening at the garden and one of those things is the construction of the walking track. Another element that's great, is how those who need to pay off their outstanding fines can do so by participating in voluntary work at the garden.

This is accomplished through participating in a Work and Development Order which is overseen by State Debt Recovery Office. Darren from Access Community Group facilitates the process and is very proud of the efforts from all involved.

"On behalf of Access community Group I would like to thank Barrack Heights Community Garden and their valuable members and community. Work and Development Order overseen by State Debt Recovery Office has seen people with debt reduced with valuable community contribution to Barrack Heights Community Garden"- Darren Bell

This is a very positive option for those participating, as it empowers those who embrace the opportunity. Jamie (one of the crew)  says "this should have been made available 10 years ago". As it has given him the ability to pay of his fines that would take him 10 years otherwise. It has also given him connection with the community and opened his world to further possibilities for the future.

As a community member of the garden, I see how this is life changing for those who let it be. I think it's a win win situation as the participants work hard to make the garden a more special place, making particular mention of the formation of the walking track.

I shall conclude with a parting comment from Darren "Go out on a limb, that's where the fruit is"

If you or anyone you know would like to participate in such a program here is a link for Illawarra. You can also click on the previous links for more information.