Coorong District Council is taking an exciting new direction in the delivery of a fresh food project in Coonalpyn, with the establishment of a community garden at the Coonalpyn Community Hub.

In June 2019 Council was successful in securing $17,600 funding through the State Government’s SA Healthy Towns Challenge for the delivery of a fresh food project in Coonalpyn.

The Coonalpyn Fresh Food Project – a regular fresh food delivery service – was developed as a response to the community’s feedback expressing a need to access fresh food as well as address the national health issue of heart disease.

Several logistical issues were identified that would affect the long-term sustainability of a delivery service to Coonalpyn, and so the Coonalpyn Community Garden concept was born.

The establishment of a community garden at the Coonalpyn Community Hub will enable the production of seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs for the whole community to enjoy and will become an sustainable, long-term asset to the town. The project will be driven by the Coonalpyn Community Hub and a team of dedicated volunteers, utilising local businesses and suppliers.

According to a report released in 2019 by the Heart Foundation, the Coorong District Council has been identified as having the second highest rate of death in the Nation from heart disease, more alarmingly the highest in the State. Residents of the Coorong were also identified as having high rates of physical inactivity and obesity which are key heart factors of heart disease.

Coorong District Council Mayor Paul Simmons said, “Being able to engage volunteers and members of the community to become involved in the project will see more Coorong residents getting outdoors and enjoying moderate physical activity.”

He added “Getting outside to garden with others helps reduce social isolation and improves our health and wellbeing – which is particularly important in our current COVID-19 world, while having the added benefit of having access to fresh fruit and vegetables.”

Coonalpyn Hub Coordinator Jane Watson is also excited at the prospect of establishing a community garden. “We have been wanting to establish a garden for the community for a few years now, and with thanks to the funding partners this dream now becomes a reality,” Jane says.

The Coonalpyn Community Garden project will be delivered by 31 December 2020, with planning already underway. It is anticipated that once established, the garden produce will be readily available to the Coonalpyn community at no charge or with a small donation.

Residents wishing to get involved in the project, socialise with their fellow community members (while social distancing) and ultimately enjoy the fruits of their labour are encouraged to contact Jane Watson at the Coonalpyn Community Hub on 8571 1018.

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Contact:
Bridget Mather
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | COORONG DISTRICT COUNCIL
Phone: 1300 785 277 | E: bmather@coorong.sa.gov.au