Produce with purpose – supporting local school and community garden projects
At the Capital Region Farmers Market, we believe in more than just fresh produce. Through the support of our market community, profits go directly towards funding incredible projects that make a difference in Canberra. This past year (2023–2024), the Rotary Club of Hall’s Environment Committee has continued its commitment to fostering sustainable food practices in schools and local organisations.
Majura Primary School: Growing future gardeners
One of our recent initiatives was supporting Majura Primary School in Watson, known for its thriving garden and environmental programs. The school’s efforts were recently recognised as a finalist in the Stephanie Alexander School Garden Awards—a testament to the impact their garden project is having on students and the community.
The Rotary Club of Hall was proud to assist with several key projects requested by the school:
- Fowler’s Vacola preserving kit: With a flourishing vegetable garden and orchard, Majura students often harvest an abundance of produce. The preserving kit will allow them to extend the life of their crops and avoid food waste, while learning valuable preservation skills.
- Food saver and swag kits: These compostable cotton bags keep fruits and vegetables fresh for up to two weeks, reducing plastic use and food waste. The school received two packs to support their sustainability initiatives.
- Educational signage: The school’s tree and shrub plantings provide vital habitat for endangered species like the Gang Gang cockatoo. New signage, funded by the Rotary Club of Hall, will educate students and visitors about the importance of these plantings, while proudly displaying the Rotary logo.
Expanding Canberra City Care’s harvest garden
In addition to supporting school garden programs, we’ve also partnered with Canberra City Care in Charnwood—a nonprofit organisation that integrates a vegetable garden into its daily operations. With help from volunteers, they grow fresh vegetables and herbs, which are then cooked in their kitchen to provide affordable ready-to-eat meals. This initiative also provides work experience for disabled community members.
To help expand their efforts, the Rotary Club of Hall provided funding for additional raised garden beds. These new beds will increase their production, allowing more fresh produce to be grown for the community.
Looking ahead, we’re planning to donate further funds to Canberra City Care, enabling them to plant more fruit trees and expand their garden even further.
A broader impact
The Rotary Club of Hall has also proudly supported garden projects at Margaret Whitlam Primary, Ainslie Primary, and Lyons Primary, helping students across Canberra gain hands-on experience in growing and utilising food. By supporting the Capital Region Farmers Market, you are helping to fund these incredible initiatives that promote sustainability, education, and community well-being. Together, we’re making a difference, one garden at a time.
