For the past 10 years, a group of local volunteers has turned a once-unused patch of land in Willetton into a lively garden full of vegetables, herbs and friendships.
The Willetton Community Garden recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.
It brought together members and supporters to reflect on a decade of shared effort, sustainable living and strong community spirit.
The garden began in 2014 as a joint project between members of the Rostrata Primary School P&C and local residents.
It has since grown into an independent community space where people of all ages come to learn, plant, and connect.
Noni Walker, a volunteer and the secretary of the Willetton Community Garden Association, said the early days were built on teamwork, skill-sharing and many cups of tea.
“Volunteers built raised garden beds from recycled materials, set up compost bays, installed solar panels and created reticulation systems. Those shared tasks helped us form strong bonds,” she said.
Over the years, new members have brought in fresh ideas, plant varieties, fruit trees and herbs.
The garden has also become more inclusive, with features for children, accessible facilities and activities designed to welcome everyone.
In 2023, the group installed a bore and upgraded its water and solar systems, allowing for more garden beds and a stable water supply during dry summer months.
Volunteer Carolyn Axtens said the garden means a lot to the local community.
“It offers a safe place for people to come to enjoy trees, birds, gardens and friendships. And to learn about gardening, plants and cuisine from other cultures,” she said.
She said the space helps bring neighbours together.
“WCG enables people of all ages and nationalities to form connections that may not otherwise have occurred. In these days when loneliness is so rampant, just being together brings social wellbeing.”
Mayor Patrick Hall said the space has transformed from an unused lot into a hub of connection.
“You can see how the garden has really brought the community together. It’s a place where the common interest of gardening helps forge new friendships,” he said.
He praised the role of community gardens in improving wellbeing and reducing isolation.
“Spaces like this promote mental and physical health, encourage outdoor activity and allow people to connect, share skills and grow fresh food.”
Carolyn said the 10th anniversary celebration brought the garden’s journey full circle.
“There was such a good vibe throughout the event. Past and founding members caught up and saw how the garden has developed from the first time they dug into the sandy patch. It was a time to recognise the people behind it and our shared goal of growing food and growing together.”
She added that support from the City of Canning has been key.
“As local government supports us, they are supporting the wider community. We’ve also had visits from schools and scout groups. It’s a space that reaches far beyond our members.”
Visitors to the garden today are welcomed by shady trees, sunny corners and thriving greenery. But what makes the space truly special, Noni said, is the people.
“We have glorious growers, worm wizards, composting champions, bonza builders, marvellous marketers and sparkling socialisers. Everyone brings something different, and it works.”
The garden continues to welcome new members.
“There’s always something to do: soil preparation, planting, harvesting. We love seeing people get involved,” Noni said.
The anniversary event was supported by Volunteering WA with funds from Lotterywest.
