Woodend Primary School’s community children’s garden has had benefits trickle in, with a new irrigation system set to save valuable time ahead of the school holidays.
In partnership with Woodend Landcare, the school was awarded $3780 from Greater Western Water for a new irrigation system with a timer.
The garden has been a feature of the school for about 15 years and the watering previously took place with a roster of students and volunteers.
Volunteer community garden coordinator Nicole Middleton said they are very grateful for the new irrigation system which will help them continue to grow a range of produce while educating the students.
“We grow lots of things like potatoes, broad beans, leaks and berries, and there’s a sensory garden and an indigenous garden,” she said.
“[The garden] gets the kids outside doing team work, and a big focus is about learning to grow produce and the life cycle of the plants.
“[Another focus] is trying new foods and then we let some go to seed, so the kids can see the flowers and pollination.”
Ms Middleton said the irrigation system will allow the plants to be watered deeper, which will help them survive hotter days.
“It will be fabulous because the garden is run on tank water so efficient use of water is essential,” she said.
“During school holidays it’s hard to get people at school to water [the garden at the best times].”
Ms Middleton they are very thankful for the funding and the help from Woodend Landcare.
Zoe Moffatt
