Convenors corner - wrap up of 2025

It’s been a year of growth, collaboration, and steady progress across our programs, spaces, and partnerships. Our members, volunteers, and supporters have helped the garden continue to flourish as a place for connection, learning, and sustainability.

Growing together

Membership grew to more than 215 people: our biggest yet (!) with all plots allocated and many workshops at capacity. New initiatives like the Friday Plotters took root, while long-standing favourites such as Sprouts Club and Kids in the Kitchen remained strong, welcoming nearly 500 young participants across the year. The Wednesday Market returned with new energy, led by a team of inspiring market managers and many volunteers who created a welcoming, social atmosphere for all.

Events and celebrations

2025 was filled with community spirit. The launch of Harfest drew hundreds of visitors and our Open Day earned the Community Event of the Year Award from Warrnambool City Council. Discovery Day was a highlight, attracting over 500 attendees and showcasing the work of more than a dozen sustainability-focused organisations. Regular working bees, creative workshops, and special events all reinforced the power of community participation.

Site improvements and projects

Across the site, improvements continued steadily. The new shed and tractor made garden tasks safer and more efficient, while the pond redevelopment nears completion, ready to restore a healthy frog habitat. Stage two of the quarry revitalisation is underway with stormwater works complete, plans for new toilets submitted, and revegetation plans beginning in the top corner of the site. The HUB received a deep clean, enclosing the deck, and functional updates, and the bush food garden and fruit orchard both benefitted from new watering systems, mulch, and planting.

People and planning

This year’s member survey offered valuable insights, with more than half of members contributing feedback. Many described the garden as a 'sanctuary', a place for peace, purpose, and connection. In response, the committee reviewed policies and communication systems, launched an online induction, and implemented recommendations from an independent health and safety review. These steps are helping ensure the garden remains safe, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone.

Partnerships and outreach

Collaboration remained central to our work. We continued building partnerships with the Miura Friendship Garden, Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative, Warrnambool Repair Café, Western District Food Share, and many others. Engagement extended into the schools, local events, and across social media with over 5,000 followers and more than 1.2 million online views in 2025.

Looking ahead

As we enter 2026, we’re focused on completing major site projects, further enhancing biodiversity, and developing new educational and community programs. Gaining Deductible Gift Recipient status under the community sheds category opens new opportunities for future growth and funding.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed time, skills, resources, and encouragement this year. Together, we continue to cultivate not only a thriving garden, but a thriving community.