Sustainable garden a labour of love for Bannockburn students

THE Bannockburn P-12 College and Barwon Water have joined forces to create a new sustainable garden system on the school’s Milton Street grounds.

College students are playing a key role in every step of the site’s development, from clearing of the land to digging trenches, laying pipes, building garden beds, planting and harvesting.

They are transforming an 80-square-metre grassy area in the western part of the property into a productive garden made up of five no-dig growing beds flanked by paths and borders made from woodchips.

Barwon Water is supporting the project by providing a grant that will see a drip irrigation system installed in the garden beds and which will be connected to a rainwater tank.

The system will ensure that every drop of water is put to productive use and will improve water efficiency at the site.

Year 11 student Mark Jovanovic said a recent working bee, organised by the college’s VCE vocational major students, had helped bring the project to life.

“The garden turned out to be a huge success, with all year levels putting in a really strong effort,” he said.

Applied Learning teacher Tom Cleeland said the Big Garden Build Project was a great opportunity to actively invest in sustainable practices.

“Our students are passionate about agriculture and hands-on learning, so this event was the perfect way to celebrate their interests and physically build a sustainable garden that will serve our community into the future,” he said.

The garden offers experiences across multiple year levels, helping students to develop practical skills and explore topics such as soil health, composting, water conservation and seasonal planting.

The first harvest is scheduled for next year, with the fresh produce created expected to service the school kitchens and local food banks.

Barwon Water’s planning, delivery and environment general manager, Seamus Butcher, said the organisation’s grants program supported initiatives that made a positive impact.

“Congratulations to Bannockburn P-12 College for the brilliant concept, and to all the students who are getting their hands dirty and working together to create this sustainable space,” Mr Butcher said.

“Hands-on projects like these provide a great understanding and appreciation for the crucial role water plays in all aspects of our lives.

“Efficient watering solutions are vital in helping to save water during extended periods of dry conditions, so we thank the school for making every drop count.”

Bannockburn P-12 College was one of 13 recipients of the Barwon Water School Grants program, which provided a total of $31,375.

More information about the program and details about other recipients is at yoursay. barwonwater.vic.gov.au/barwon-water-grants.