Pictured are Dianne from the Community Garden Group, Helen from the Community Garden Group, Bronson from Council’s Open Spaces Team, Mayor Moira Jenkins, Mark from Council’s Open Spaces Team, Mark from Biodiversity Victor Harbor, and Loreto from Biodiversity Victor Harbor.
After years of planning, Victor Harbor is one step closer to getting the community garden locals have long hoped for.
The City of Victor Harbor has secured land at Martha Close for a new community garden and native plant nursery, with Council working alongside the Victor Harbor Community Garden Group and Biodiversity Victor Harbor to bring the long-awaited project to life.
“This project is set to be a wonderful example of what can be achieved when Council and community groups work together towards a shared vision,” shared City of Victor Harbor Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins. “The future community garden and native plant nursery will create opportunities for people to come together, share knowledge, learn new skills and contribute to a more sustainable and connected community.”
The site will be transformed into a fully accessible community space featuring a mix of individual garden plots, communal growing areas and raised garden beds, alongside a medium-scale native plant nursery. The vision is to support local food production, environmental education, biodiversity and social connection, while creating a welcoming space where people of all ages and abilities can come together.
The project has been several years in the making, with Council working closely alongside both community groups to understand their long-term needs and identify the most suitable location.
After assessing a number of potential sites, Martha Close was selected for its size, accessibility and future potential, including connections to the nearby Inman River walking trail.
The native plant nursery will support propagation, seed saving and plant distribution, helping to strengthen local biodiversity while providing opportunities for education and community involvement.
Landscape architects Oxigen have been appointed to develop the design and layout of the space and will work closely with both community groups throughout the consultation process to make sure the final concept reflects their vision. Design work is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027, subject to budget approvals.
Council says the project will deliver far more than a place to grow fruit, vegetables and native plants. It is expected to become a community hub where people can connect, learn new skills and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
“We look forward to seeing the site evolve into a thriving community asset that supports environmental stewardship and biodiversity outcomes for years to come,” said Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins.
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Words by Danika Zalac and Tiffany LePoidevin
