Mulch and mindfulness

The tight-knit group meets every Monday boasting more or less the same line-up most weeks, but with October being mental health month, the group has decided to throw open the metaphorical gates to use the power of planting for good.

They were joined by staff from Murray River Council and community members young and old to give the garden a face lift and a morning of meetings, wellbeing and connection.

MRC supports the volunteers, providing them with funds for the upkeep of the garden, and chief executive Stacey Williams joined the group to shine a light on the contribution it makes to the community.

Ms Williams discussed the importance of and strategies for looking after your mental health and the value of the gardens, inviting attendees to join the volunteers for their regular gardening and coffee catch-ups.

Then the real show began with trowels turning, dirt flying, and native grasses finding a new home besides the gardens’ lake.

Predominantly grown from volunteer Ron Hicks’ garden, the natives will require very little ongoing maintenance, adding an extra pop of colour to the already jam-packed site.

“It’s nice to finally be working on the area of the gardens next to the lake,” volunteer Rhonda Dorgan said.

“It gives the site a bit more separation from the dog park, and adds even more natives, which is always a good thing.”

The group was later joined by clients and support workers from Echuca Discoveries who lent their green thumbs and enjoyed the sunny spring morning with new friends.

The Friends of Moama Botanic Gardens meets every Monday morning behind Jack Eddy Oval at 9am and new volunteers are always welcome.