How to join your local community garden

Community gardens are wonderful places to connect with nature, grow your own food, and meet like-minded people. If you’re interested in joining one, the process is usually straightforward but can vary depending on the garden’s rules and location. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to become a member of Warrnambool Community Garden including how to complete the membership application form and what to expect once you join.

The importance of community

Being part of a garden community is more than just cultivating plants; it's about fostering relationships and sharing a passion for nature. We're a members association with a few main goals:

• To create a supportive environment for gardening enthusiasts

• To share knowledge, skills, and resources among members

• To facilitate collaboration on gardening projects and events

Benefits of joining a Gardening Community

• Access to a wealth of gardening expertise and experience

• Opportunities for social interaction and building friendships

• Participation in community events, workshops, and educational programs

• Shared resources, such as tools, seeds, and plants, reducing individual costs

Joining a garden community enhances your gardening skills and strengthens the bonds between members, creating a vibrant and thriving environment for everyone involved.

How to complete your membership application

We encourage everyone to come tour the garden with the convenor, site manager or a committee member to get a sense of the place and how you can get involved. If you’re considering hiring a private plot, you may be able to look at some options. Filling out the membership application is the first official step to joining our community garden. Here’s a simple process to follow:

1. Find the application: Visit the membership page or drop in to the garden to get a hard copy membership application form.

2. Read the guidelines: Before filling out the form, carefully read the garden's rules, policies and guidelines and our statement of purpose. This will help you understand what is expected of you.

3. Fill in your details: Provide accurate personal information, including your name, address, phone number, and email.

4. Specify your preferences: Indicate if you'd like a key or plot and mention any gardening experience you have.

5. Agree to terms: We require you to agree to the garden’s rules, policies and purpose statement as part of your membership commitment.

6. Submit the form: Send your completed form to the secretary either online, post or in person to the HUB.

   
   

If you want to get started right away, you can access the membership application form here.

Once your application is received, we'll contact you with the next steps. This includes an induction and an orientation session.

Preparing for your first visit to the garden

After your membership is processed, you’ll likely be invited to an orientation or welcome event. This is a great opportunity to learn about the garden’s layout, meet other members, and get tips on gardening in your local climate.

Here are some practical tips to prepare for your first day:

• Bring basic tools: We provide a range of tools, but it’s good to have your own gloves, trowel, and secateurs.

• Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor work. Don't forget a hat!

• Plan your garden space: Think about what you want to contribute and how much time you'd like to share.

• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask experienced gardeners for advice on soil, planting times, and pest control.

  
  

Being prepared will help you make the most of your community garden experience from day one.

Staying engaged and contributing to the community

Joining a community garden is not just about growing plants; it’s about being part of a community. Active participation helps the garden thrive and creates a positive environment for everyone.

Our garden is always buzzing with activity! Here are some ways you can contribute:

• Gardening tasks like watering, mulching, composting, weeding, pruning fruit trees, and propagation

• Site maintenance such as mowing lawns or tidying beds

• Helping with workshops, tours, or programs like Sprouts Club for kids.

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We have opportunities in specific skills or interests:

• Caring for chooks or bees

• Building maintenance and site construction projects

• Administration, records, finances, grant applications, website updates and maintenance

• Cooking for working bee lunches, making preserves

• Planning and running events, be an organiser or a helper on the day

• Social media, help with messaging, photography, content creation

• Member support helping less able, new members

• Photography and videography for education and promotion

Start your journey today by filling out the membership application form and take the first step towards becoming part of your local community garden.