A unique fundraising initiative involving tomato seeds has grown into $6,000 for the Sprouts Club. The surprise donation, announced at the 15-year anniversary celebration by Perry and Rose Cho, will significantly boost the children's program, which introduces children to gardening and cooking with fresh produce.
The first open day for the garden in over five years saw hundreds of people flowing through the gates to enjoy the music, art and idyllic atmosphere.
The Sprouts Club kid’s garden has seen significant renewal this year. A nature-based mural by artists Sheridan and Jimmi Buscombe has been added alongside an extension of six water-efficient wicking beds forming a ‘Community Court’ with the support of Perry and Rose Cho and Foodcube. A ribbon cutting officially opened the area, followed by an announcement of the additional major donation.
Perry Cho, the mastermind behind the tomato seed sale, said, 'We wanted to find a creative way to support the garden that aligned with its purpose and would benefit the next generation of young growers. The enthusiasm for varieties like 'Cowboy' and 'Rebel Starfighter Prime' exceeded all expectations, showing how passionate our community is about gardening and sustainability.'
This initiative tomato sale raised an impressive initial sum with additional donations from current and past partners of Sinclair Wilson. This will provide gardening resources to empower young children to plant, grow and harvest food.
Heather Ryan, the Sprouts Club Coordinator, expressed her gratitude, stating, 'This generous donation means so much to our volunteer-run program, who were delighted with the news. We are incredibly thankful to Perry and Rose, as well as the community, for their support.'
The renovated all-abilities nursery, designed to suit a wider range of people to garden more comfortably, also benefited from Perry and Rose Cho's donation with four Foodcubes installed there. This was opened by Felicity Melican, trustee of the A.L. Lane Foundation and Lisa McLeod, Executive Officer of the Fletcher Jones Family Foundation.
Over the past fifteen years, the site has transformed from a weed-infested parcel of unused land into a community hub full of life through the work of dedicated volunteers.
As the garden enters its next chapter, it's seeking members and volunteers for roles ranging from gardening helpers to event coordinators. This presents a unique opportunity for community members to directly shape the future of this vital local resource.
Become a member today to support the garden.
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