December 9th, 2023Six years in the making: Trentham community garden opens for use

The new Trentham Neighbourhood Centre Community Garden was officially opened on Saturday, November 18, after six years in concept and development phases.

About 35 people attended the opening with speakers including Hepburn Shire Mayor and Coliban Ward Cr Brian Hood, Ballarat federal MP Catherine King, Little Gallery Trentham’s Kim Haughie, TNC Committee of Management treasurer Corina Sabo, garden project manager Michelle Leeder, TNC manager Richard Goodman and previous president and long-term Trentham local Ina Bertrand.

Funding for the garden came from the federal government – $30,000, Hepburn Shire Council – $8000 and Little Gallery Trentham – $5200, along with donations of funds and assistance from other organisations and individuals.

TNC president Anne-Marie Pedeau said the garden was partially designed, and then built, by Anthony Morrey.

Features include four wicking beds, two of which are planted with vegetables, a herb garden, beds filled with ornamental flowers, a pergola planted, a sculptural artwork made by the TNC Youth Group on one wall, playing areas for chess or draughts (designed into the paving), a decking area for a table and chairs and a heritage woven wire fence.

Ms Pedeau said she hoped people would come, use and enjoy the garden in a variety of ways from just somewhere to sit and relax, to playing a game of chess, or a place for organised groups to set up various hobbies and events.