One of the many things I love about living in Noosa is the strong sense of community and willingness of so many residents to generously share their time and expertise in an attempt to make a difference to the world. This weekend I had the pleasure of visiting the Peregian Beach Veggie Village, a community garden that teaches people how to grow their own fruit and vegetables using the techniques of permaculture.

Tucked away behind the busy David Low Way at Peregian Beach, Veggie Village is a beautiful peaceful place that resembles a living greengrocer, abundant with healthy vegetables, fruits, herbs and more. Their tagline is “The Real Fresh Food People” and upon visiting it is immediately apparent why! Complete with individual and communal veggie patches, colourful scarecrows, a pizza oven and a covered gathering area, Veggie Village really is a hidden treasure.

Colourful scarecrows give Veggie Village a rustic charm

Established in 2007, Veggie Village promotes environmental sustainability, social equity, cultural diversity and community participation through growing fruit and vegetables in a friendly and fun environment.

Their aim is to contribute to the development of a sustainable community through encouraging and promoting the growing of organic food and native plants by:
•    Providing a community garden for practical experience in sustainable horticulture of food and native plants.
•    Utilising the community garden as a catalyst for social cohesion and interaction within and between all sectors of the community.
•    Providing opportunities for education and information in sustainable horticulture of food and native plants.
•    Promoting the sustainable horticulture of food and native plants in the broader community.

At Veggie Village, you can rent a Vegie Patch allotment, attend an educational workshop, meet new people, participate in a working bee, attend a social gathering, draw from other members’ experience and expertise, as well as have the opportunity to make a difference in the community.

Broccoli is one of many vegetables grown at Veggie Village

Their garden facilities include a worm farm, composting facilities, raised “tank” gardens making them easily accessible for the elderly or wheelchair-bound, and solar-generated water pumps.

Solar powered water pump

Membership is open to everyone (individuals, families and groups) and members are encouraged to bring a range of skills, experience and enthusiasm to contribute to the Veggie Village values and activities. Veggie Village is run entirely by volunteers, and financially relies on grants and donations.

If you’re wanting to learn more about growing fruit and vegetables, looking for inspiration for your garden, or simply seeking companionship with like-minded individuals, I can highly recommend a visit to this very worthwhile initiative.

Veggie Village Community Garden
Di HIrst Oval (behind the bowls club)
Rufous Street, Peregian Beach
www.veggievillage.com.au

Quirky touches add to the character of Veggie Village