Cittaslow Goolwa has announced the official launch of a new community garden in central Goolwa, following the signing of a long-term lease by Education Minister Blair Boyer. 

This milestone marks a new chapter in Cittaslow Goolwa’s nearly two-decade long commitment to advancing local quality of life, sustainability, education, and community collaboration.

Cittaslow, or ‘slow town’, is a whole-of-community approach to promoting quality of life and sustainability in towns and cities based on a partnership between local government and communities. 

In March 2007, Goolwa was accredited by Cittaslow International as the first Cittaslow town in Australia.

The new garden will be situated directly behind the Goolwa Children’s Centre (GCC), on vacant land facing Chrystal Street. 

“This project symbolises our commitment to sustainable living, learning, and building community,” says Michael Keen, President of Cittaslow Goolwa Inc. 

“We appreciate the efforts of the property team from the Department of Education, Training and Skills, and the Education Minister’s support.”

The new garden will feature raised beds and wide access paths to allow for all mobility levels, child-friendly spaces and improved facilities for plant propagation and communal events. 

This new community venture will complement the strong relationship developed over more than seven years between the GCC and volunteers from the existing Cittaslow community garden. 

With financial support from the Goolwa Community Bank – Bendigo Bank Goolwa & District, volunteer gardeners have supplied fresh fruit and vegetables from their existing community garden to the children, staff and families at the GCC.

“Having Cittaslow locating right next to the Children’s Centre will be a fantastic opportunity to build that partnership, not only receiving the fresh food but also playing an active part in learning plant growing and cultivating the fresh produce,” says Donna McAuley, Director of GCC.

“There are also plans to run family cooking lessons/groups using the fresh produce,” 

“Food security is an ongoing and complex issue in our community and affects nearly all of our families in some way. 

“The food support program we have running with Cittaslow is an important part of our Children’s Centre. Even just to have a community garden that is accessible to parents

and children to gather their thoughts in is something we are looking forward to.” Donna says.

Michael Keen says while the existing community garden has been greatly valued and well-used over the years, the site faces limitations including its location on the outskirts of Goolwa, inadequate parking and access to power. 

The new site in the heart of Goolwa will provide improved infrastructure, greater accessibility, and enhanced opportunities for local engagement and growth. 

Located near Goolwa Public School and Goolwa Secondary College, it will facilitate interactions with local students and parents of all ages.

Nathan Hunter, Principal of Goolwa Primary School, says he is delighted about the new garden. 

“This exciting development not only provides a hands-on opportunity for children and families to connect with nature and explore the origins and cycles of food, but also deepens community engagement across generations,” he says. 

“The gardens represent a meaningful extension of the growing education precinct here in Goolwa, reinforcing the heart of learning within our town. 

“By cultivating these shared spaces, we are nurturing relationships, strengthening community ties, and creating lasting educational experiences for all.”

Cittaslow welcomes the involvement of community members; anyone interested in learning more can contact Michael Keen via email. 

Find out more about Cittaslow Goolwa and the wider Cittaslow movement on the website.