Men’s Shed put finishing touches on Community Orchard

MEMBERS of the Torquay Men’s Shed have put the finishing touches on 22 hand crafted wooden name tags for a new group of fruit trees in the Quay Reserve Community Orchard.

When several local gardeners looked at the amount of green space surrounding the playgrounds at the Quay a number of years ago, they wanted to make an effort to create something for future generations to enjoy.

Now looking at the developments made on the project into the summer of 2022, Surf Coast Shire Councillor Rose Hodge said she was pleased to be able to support and help fund the orchard idea.

“These name tags are another beautiful addition to this fantastic community garden,” Cr Hodge said.

“Council exists to help our community to thrive and looking around at these healthy trees with these beautiful name tags really is a wonderful example of this.”

“This project would not exist without the support of Council, the help of incredible volunteers, groups like the Men’s Shed and Bunnings donations,” added Quay Reserve Community Orchard volunteer Graeme Biggins.

“In addition to a playground and gathering space, there are now trees with apples, pears, stone fruit and citrus that anyone in the community is free to pick at harvest time.

“To see children running up to pick an apple and have a swing while they eat it, is just wonderful.”

The Surf Coast Shire Council said that volunteers are always welcome at the Quay Reserve Community Orchard, particularly in summer.

Contact Surf Coast Shire Council to volunteer by lodging a request at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/request