Community garden sees friendships bloom

A community garden, which sprouted because of a council Community Impact Grant, has produced more than vegetables.

Located in a section of Ewart Brothers Reserve between 13 and 25 Memorial Dve in Wodonga, the garden has brought together those who live nearby.

Paul Schupina, a member of Friends of Ewart Brothers, has seen a change in the neighbourhood since the garden was established about six months ago.

“People are now stopping in the street to say hello to one another and have a chat,” he said.

Mr Schupina has also seen first-hand the benefits of a community garden.

“I have been taking some produce to some of our elderly residents in the street and I have become close with one couple,” he said.

Every effort was made to obtain materials for the garden beds and compost cheaply or free of charge.

Water for the community garden comes from a 1000 litre palicon supplied by council.

“We have received many in-kind donations including some concrete sleepers from Global Factory Maintenance which we are about to install,” Mr Schupina said.

“We are also thankful for discounts from Wodonga Sand and Soil, as well as Peards Nursery.”

Mr Schupina said many residents were now volunteering in the garden.

“So altogether it has been the very thing that has built a very strong community,” he said.

“We are in south Wodonga, so anyone who wants to come down and have a look are welcome.”