Usable space increases at Meredith centre after garden works

MEREDITH Community Centre’s back garden has been upgraded with funds from the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

The $7500 grant has helped cover the installation of synthetic turf and the removal of old plants to make the area safer and more accessible for its user groups.

Meredith Community Centre manager Leah Phillips said the outdoor space – which is used for community lunches, and by a playgroup and mindfulness group – was previously full of grasses and bushes, and had a sandpit full of rocks.

“Behind the pizza oven were grasses which attracted snakes,” she said.

“This time last year, a snake was seen in the garden which sent everyone into a panic.

“Updating the garden is something I’ve wanted to do for ages because the sand pit dragged sand through the centre, and it was dangerous because the kids couldn’t see the rocks and trip over.

“Everything was a pit of danger and risk, so putting in for the grant was all about making every part of the space usable.

“By redesigning the area to reduce maintenance requirements and improve usability, the garden now supports a wider range of outdoor activities and gatherings.

“These upgrades effectively extend the community centre’s usable space, encouraging connection, recreation, and a stronger sense of community in a safer, low-maintenance environment.”

A further $2500 was spent from centre funds to cover the total cost of the turf.

“We just love it,” Ms Phillips said. “The turf is user friendly and because it’s low-maintainence, over time it’s going to save us a lot of money.

“Everything’s neat and tidy, and it looks great. We’ve got volunteers coming in to do the vegetable garden at the back, and the cubby will be painted the same colour as the house.”

The works were finished on 24 October. Member for Ballarat Catherine King visited the centre last week to see the completed project.

“What a change this upgrade has made,” Ms King said.

“I’m so pleased that we could support an organisation who plays such a critical role in supporting the Meredith community.

“Neighbourhood and community centres across Australia are places people can connect, learn and be supported. They are the heart of our communities.”

The garden is also hired out commercially.