Tucked away just off the beaten track, between Winchester Street and Poyntz Road by the Redfort Indian Restaurant, lies one of Overton’s hidden gems – the Community Kitchen Garden. It’s a space where locals can roll up their sleeves, get their hands a little muddy, and take home some fresh produce for their efforts.
You don’t need to be green-fingered to get involved. The volunteers are a friendly bunch, always happy to share knowledge, swap stories, and welcome newcomers. Gardening experience is optional – enthusiasm is essential.
Two-thirds of the garden are already thriving, complete with well-tended beds and a spacious polytunnel. Despite the long, dry summer, the group has managed to grow a fantastic range of fresh, high-quality vegetables.
Now, attention is turning to the final untamed section of the site – and this is where new volunteers come in.
“Working on the last third could save you a gym membership,” joked one of the organisers. “There’s plenty of digging and clearing to be done — but also the chance to help create something really special.”
Plans for the final phase include a wildlife pond, a dead hedge, a hugelkultur bed, and a new area for fruit trees.
The group will be holding four community work mornings to get the new section underway:
- Saturday 11th October, 10:00–12:00
- Saturday 25th October, 10:00–12:00
- Saturday 8th November, 10:00–12:00
- Saturday 22nd November, 10:00–12:00
The patch of land is currently untouched and will need plenty of hands to clear weeds, rubble and debris – just like the area that’s now producing vegetables. Garden forks will be available, but anyone with their own is encouraged to bring it along.
And yes – there will be refreshments.
If you’d like to join in, lend a hand, or simply find out more, leave a message on the Community Kitchen Garden Facebook page, letting the organisers know which days you can come.
It’s a great way to meet people, learn something new, and make a lasting difference in your community – one spadeful at a time.