Macedon Ranges residents are invited to take part in a pilot project to transform their verges into a productive and colourful space, that is sure to be a feature of the neighbourhood.
Five lucky households will receive support to start their garden bed with access to information and resources as well as free locally sourced seedlings, equipment and one-on-one guidance and advice.
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH) is partnering with Healthy Loddon Campaspe and Macedon Ranges council on the initiative, which will help to inform council’s future review of its policy around verge gardening.
SCCH project coordinator Kylie Stafford said edible verge gardens are good for the environment.
“[They] encourage people to be active and enjoy the outdoors plus they can help families incorporate more fresh produce into their diets,” she said
“They can also help reduce the family food budget and promote a sense of community providing an opportunity for people to engage with their neighbours.”
Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death said it was importantpeople understand their responsibilities, and opportunities, that come with maintaining nature strips.
“Not everyone is aware that it is generally the responsibility of property owners to maintain their nature strips,” she said.
“With that responsibility comes potential planting or landscaping opportunities through our Nature Strip Landscaping Policy.”
Details: 5421 1666, healthpromotion@scchc.org.au or www.sunburycobaw.org.au/veg-on-the-verge.
