December 22nd, 2022New garden for Trentham neighbourhood centre

TRENTHAM Neighbourhood Centre is building a new community garden.
Volunteer project manager Michelle Leeder said the garden would be used by both the Trentham community and TNC staff and members and would provide a green, inviting space for various activities including, learning, socialising, and reflection.
Michelle said a number of people had been involved in the design work – with the help of local landscape designer Anthony Morrey.
“The garden will be built on two levels. There will be garden access from the TNC building with ramp access between the two levels, as well as gate access from High Street.
“The lower level will be paved with recycled pavers, donated by The Pig and Whistle Pub in East Trentham. The elevated level will consist of a paved area and a decking area, with a large pergola and various planter boxes and seating. Two existing trees will be retained and have been incorporated into the garden design.”
Michelle said a new heritage wire front fence would add to the streetscape and allow the garden to be visible from High Street.
New back and side fences will enclose the site and wicking planter boxes will be installed, ensuring water conservation and potential for veggies or other plants to be grown.
Completion of paving, decking and the pergola is expected by mid-2023, allowing for planting to be done over spring.
“We have secured various financial grants to assist with construction of the new garden, however there is also now a fundraising effort in place to assist with financing the project,” Michelle said.
“To date we have raised just over $4000 and would like to thank those who have supported us.
“They are the Cosmopolitan Hotel for their Friday night raffles, the Mount Players for tickets to their performance of Madagascar, community members who have donated cash, the Lions Club of Trentham and the Trentham Spudfest organisers.”
Michelle said a garden fundraising group had been established to organise events and people were welcome to volunteer assistance for any of the events running during 2023 and onwards.

“We of course would welcome any cash donations, which are tax deductible, if individuals or businesses would like to contribute financially.
“Pop into the centre if you would like to see the garden plans in more detail, and keep an eye out for the transformation of the TNC garden in the heart of Trentham during 2023.”

Words and image: Contributed