Growing local produce

The Sustainable Wetlands Agricultural Makers Project (SWAMP) provides a space for people to visit and connect to grow a community of like minded people that may be isolated, new to the area or just want to join a community garden - learning ways to grow and eat food.

26 June 2024

 

SWAMP sees an opportunity to bring people together and create a community garden that is thriving, resilient and strong for visitors and members alike to visit and belong.

 

The core members of SWAMP is a collaboration between professionals in nutrition, food, gardening, creatives, IT, health and wellbeing, children’s education, horticulture, ethnobotany, project management, waste management, with an emphasis on environmental sustainability.

 

SWAMP volunteers Cassie Harris and Sue Bradley are proposing new ideas in their fresh produce community garden.

 

SWAMP volunteers recently met with Member for Wyong, David Harris to propose their new project Just Farm - engaging educational opportunities, community empowerment, creating employment and continuing to improve the surroundings of fresh produce.

 

Mr Harris said, “Established in 2021, SWAMP is dedicated to fostering connections between communities and nature through the provision of unique communal spaces.”

 

“It is a place where people can come together to cultivate and appreciate food while also nurturing a deeper appreciation for the environment and the benefits of sustainable living.”

 

Over the past 12 months the group have experienced significant growth and transformation.

 

The board members bring a shared drive and passion for SWAMPs success, positioning the group for a new era of community gardening.

 

SWAMP have involved Mr Harris along their journey in the community garden, which is supported by government grants to bring their projects and ideas to life.

 

Volunteers Cassie and Sue said “Having a successful community garden for the past four years has given us a clear insight into the needs of the local Wyong community. Highlighted by our collaborative work with other local community organisations.

 

“Being that our primary focus is to provide fresh produce to disadvantaged members of our community, we feel a Just Farm would be the perfect solution to meet the ever-increasing basic needs of this demographic of people.

 

“Community growing food for community.”