Glenorchy City Council will take on the administration of the Chigwell Community Garden, securing the future of the much-loved community space and supporting continued shared use by local groups.
Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey said the transition will enable Council to formalise access arrangements for the site and provide greater coordination and support for community activities, including the return of the weekly Playgroup and as a base for the Grow It Local Program.
“The Chigwell Community Garden is an important local space that brings people together and Council is pleased to be able to administer this site to support community connection, learning and sustainability,” she said.
“By taking on the administration of the garden, Council will ensure community access, support regular community use and ensure the site continues to thrive.
“We will also work with Playgroup Tasmania to ensure activities are well coordinated between Playgroup use and Council-led programs,” Mayor Hickey said.
The garden has been supported to date by Bucaan Community House, whose stewardship has helped establish it as a valued community asset.
Bucaan Community House CEO Mary-anne Evans welcomed the transition and Council’s commitment to supporting the garden’s future. “This garden has always belonged to the community,” Ms Evans said.
“The response after the temporary closure announcement showed how important this space is to local families. While funding challenges remain, it’s wonderful to see everyone working together to keep the garden thriving.”
To support the garden’s next chapter, Bucaan Community House will donate its existing garden infrastructure, tools and play equipment, ensuring these resources remain available for community use.
Playgroup Tasmania Programs Coordinator Andrea Read welcomed Council’s move.
“We are delighted to see the Chigwell Garden Playgroup up and running through people power. “The determination of the families involved to keep the group going points to how highly playgroups are valued and the important role these groups have in local communities. “Playgroups provide warm, welcoming spaces where caregivers can connect and share experiences while their children make their first friends and develop new skills through play.” Council is already planning a range of future activities at the garden, including workshops focused on sustainability, composting and natural area management such as seed collection. Mayor Hickey said Council looked forward to working with Playgroup Tasmania, Bucaan Community House and other community partners to ensure the Chigwell Community Garden continues to be an inclusive, active and welcoming space for the community.
“This outcome shows what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared purpose,” she said. “We look forward to seeing the garden and playgroup continue to grow and flourish.”
