At SAGE, we focus on encouraging and developing local agriculture and home gardening in equal measure.
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A functioning food system isn’t just made up of farmers. It’s also a thriving, community-driven system of people growing their own food.
However the knowledge and skills needed are lost to many of us, along with a sense of self reliance and the pleasure of commensality: preparing home-grown meals and eating them together.
In 2017, SAGE, with an IMB Community Foundation grant, held low-cost workshops introducing beginners to growing their own food. “Veggies for All” was so successful, we ran it again in 2018. We have empowered hundreds with the knowledge – and in many cases, the equipment – to grow their own food.
We started a ball rolling, but “Veggies for All” has a life of its own, as participants connect with each other and enjoy the commensality their gardens inspire.
Terry McGee convenes an informal group of “Veggies for All” graduates in Malua Bay who regularly gather in their homes and gardens.
“It seemed an obvious thing to do,” said Terry. “I came rather late to gardening – about 70 years late – and did the course to catch up. I really enjoyed that, and was making very good progress. It struck me that there were probably other new gardeners in the vicinity, and it might help us all to compare notes. I contacted SAGE and asked to be put in touch with other locals who had done the course, and away we went. It was that easy.”
“I went into it thinking in pretty narrow, practical terms. I expected we’d focus on sharing experience and inspiration, and maybe seeds and seedlings and we’ve done that. What I didn’t count on was that all our members turned out to be fascinating and immensely likeable. We’re from all walks of life, but have so much to offer each other. Gardeners are caring people.”
For Terry, getting together has unexpected benefits: “I’m seeing and hearing a lot about the epidemic of loneliness sweeping the world. One-in-five people has no-one to talk to regularly. Our gardens are not just about growing veggies. We’re enjoying great company and better nutrition! What’s not to like?”
To connect with “Veggies for All” graduates, email Kathryn at veggiesforall@sageproject.org.au.
All are welcome to social events at the SAGE Garden (110 Queen St, Moruya). Our monthly Food Share is on the fourth Sunday from 10am. It’s a great way to meet gardeners. Visit sageproject.org.au and look for the “events” page and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.