From soil to plate: Garden Gems workshops

Bass Coast Shire Council in partnership with Bass Coast Adult Learning (BCAL) has launched its 2024 productive gardening workshop series, "Bass Coast Garden Gems".

This initiative aims to foster a culture of sustainability, health and community connection through the joy of gardening.

The workshops will be hosted across Bass Coast's eight community gardens, offering residents an opportunity to learn essential gardening skills while nurturing a deeper connection to their local environment.

Workshops on the island will be held at the PICAL Community Garden and the Phillip Island Community Orchard, with two scheduled for April, and then sessions throughout the year.

With a strong emphasis on sustainable practices, the program will empower participants to cultivate their own food, contributing to healthier lifestyles and a more resilient community.

Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve, expressed her enthusiasm for the project.

"Bass Coast Garden Gems embodies our commitment to promoting health, social cohesion, and environmental stewardship within our community.

"By providing residents with the knowledge and resources to grow their own food, we not only enhance individual well-being but also strengthen the fabric of our neighbourhoods."

In partnership with Bass Coast Adult Learning, the program will feature expert trainers Frances Saunders and Rick Coleman. Frances brings a wealth of experience in horticulture and sustainable landscape design, coupled with a passion for community engagement. Meanwhile, Rick, a renowned permaculture teacher with over three decades of experience, is dedicated to empowering participants with lifelong gardening skills.

"Through Bass Coast Garden Gems, we aim to inspire a new generation of gardeners who are not only capable of growing their own food but also committed to fostering a more sustainable future," said Mayor Le Serve.

"We are proud to partner with Bass Coast Adult Learning and our experienced trainers, Frances Saunders and Rick Coleman, to make this vision a reality."

The workshops will cover a range of topics, including soil health, composting, organic pest management, and permaculture principles. Participants can expect hands-on learning experiences and valuable insights from expert trainers, all within Bass Coast's community gardens.

Bass Coast residents are encouraged to find their nearest community garden and 'Garden Gem' workshops at: thecap.com.au/garden-gems.

The 31 workshops run from April until November across Bass Coast.