Details of the early history of Mort Bay Community Garden are hazy, but we’re told the idea of a community garden goes back years, with locals campaigning to save the land on which our garden now stands from development.
A more coordinated effort started in 2011 when a garden was proposed by an enthusiastic group of local residents. The proposal was approved by Leichhardt Municipal Council and the Mort Bay Community Garden Association was born.
Council awarded the association a license to use the land behind the John McMahon Childcare Centre and granted $10,000 that funded the first phase of construction in 2012.
In 2013, a further $10,000 from the state government funded an expansion that was completed early 2014.
Today, Mort Bay Community Garden thrives. It is 100% volunteer-run with ongoing costs met by membership fees, and members donating their time and energy in occasional fundraising. It now has around 40 raised beds, sheds for equipment, a busy composting area, and shaded picnic tables. It brings local people together, building friendships and encouraging healthy and sustainable living.