Seeds of community connection planted at new garden

The seeds of sustainability and community connection were planted on Friday, May 9, as local residents gathered for the opening of the new Mannering Park Community Garden located in the grounds outside Vales Point Power Station.

The event brought together volunteers from Mannering Park Community Garden Inc, staff from Delta Electricity and Bunnings Lake Haven, local school students and members of the community to celebrate the start of thes vibrant community initiative.

The garden will be a space for growing organic fruits and vegetables, and is designed to be inclusive and accessible for people of all ages and abilities.

Adding a splash of green to the day, the community planted a new garden bed and enjoyed a gardening talk from a Bunnings Lake Haven horticulturalist, who shared tips on growing healthy organic produce, sparking ideas about the possibilities ahead for the space.

Mannering Park Community Garden Inc president Sue Wynn talked about the community’s vision for the garden.

“This garden is about more than just growing food – it’s about creating a welcoming place where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can come together to learn, enjoy being outdoors and eat locally grown organic produce,” she said.

“We’re thrilled to have the support of Delta, Council and our local residents.

“Together, we’re building something really special.”

Community members are being encouraged to get involved by reaching out to Wynn on 0434 151 537 or Marie Brown on 0413 854 796 at Mannering Park Community Garden Inc.

“We are looking for new members and encourage anyone of any age or ability to join; it’s a great learning experience for the kids and whole family to enjoy,” Wynn said.

The garden was made possible by $13,600 in grants from Delta’s Chain Valley Colliery Community Funding Program which is a joint initiative between Delta, Central Coast Council and local communities to improve community infrastructure and services in Mannering Park, Chain Valley Bay, Gwandalan and Summerland Point.

Delta Company Secretary Steve Gurney said the project reflected Delta’s ongoing commitment to local community partnerships.

“Delta has a long-standing relationship with the Mannering Park community and surrounding areas,” he said.

“We’re proud to support grassroots initiatives like this that promote sustainability, healthy living and inclusivity in our community.

“It’s also exciting to see this garden trialling recycled concrete made from ash from our power station – a great example of innovation meeting community needs.”

The Mannering Park Community Garden initiative joins the nearby Kingfisher Shores Community Garden, as part of a growing movement of sustainable, community-driven spaces in the local region.