In an effort to create a safe and inclusive space for the community of Warwick, a dedicated individual is spearheading the establishment of a community garden.
This initiative aims to provide a place for individuals to decompress, contribute to the community, and prioritise their mental health.
The garden will serve as a sanctuary for Warwick residents, offering solace and support during challenging times.
Better Health has conducted research that shows engaging in activities such as gardening can have a positive impact on mental health, boosting mood and promoting overall well-being. By incorporating a mental health aspect into the garden, individuals will have a dedicated space to seek solace and combat feelings of loneliness or distress.
The driving force behind this project is Tracy Gunton-Benson who, through personal experience, understands the importance of resilience and support. Her goal is to instil hope in others, encouraging them to embrace both good and bad days and to reach out for help when needed.
By fostering a sense of community and providing non-clinical support, the garden aims to empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges and emerge stronger.
The need for such a community garden became apparent through discussions with local general practitioners who expressed a strong interest in a non-clinical mental health space and the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, Tracy said.
“I stuck my hand up to create what we are missing and I asked the community what they would want, quite a lot of people are interested in either working or partaking in the garden,” Tracy said.
The next step in this endeavour is to establish the garden as a not-for-profit organization, requiring the assistance of committee members to oversee its operations and community members to actively participate.
The garden will host a variety of activities based on community preferences, including community barbecues, social events, and workshops. These activities will be tailored to meet the needs and interests of the community, ensuring a vibrant and engaging space for all.
The location of the garden is still being finalised, discussions with prior spaces are underway but leasing a private space may be a possibility as well.
For those interested in supporting or participating in this community garden initiative, contact Tracy on 0448 718 279
