By Oliver Lees
This autumn you can make a difference with your picnic.
Stretched across 10 acres, Viewfield garden in Mt Macedon has opened its gates to the public to raise funds for local charity, Shared Table, with all proceeds going toward assisting the organisation’s work in the community.
Established 10 years ago, Shared Table is a registered charity entirely run by volunteers.
Whether it’s supporting the Gisborne Foodbank, helping a child buy a computer, or supplying fire wood to a family in the winter months, Shared Table focused on cutting through the bureaucracy of community support networks by providing direct support to specific needs.
Founder Vicki Hawken said having already exceeded their fundraising goal, this year has been the biggest and best in their history.
“We help families with specific needs, in areas where they can’t get funding anywhere else,” Ms Hawken said.
“The response to the garden has been amazing and the garden has reached maturity so it’s looking fantastic.
“We’ve noticed people this year have been staying for hours.”
There’s plenty for the kids to enjoy too, with a cubby house and swing set, as well as a special activity designed to get them exploring each corner of the grounds.
Viewfield open garden days will continue to run until Anzac Day as part of Macedon Ranges council Autumn Festival, with admission $10 for adults and children under 16 allowed free entry.
For more information contact Vicki on: 0412 180 388.
