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Growing Together Green Space Childers: More Than Just Plants

  • Feb 17
  • 2 min read

Just over a year ago, Sylvia and her Lifestyle Mentor Paul had a simple idea. What if there was a space where people could learn, connect and grow together through horticulture?


That conversation is now Growing Together Green Space.


In partnership with the Isis District State High School Agriculture Department, this school-based project brings students and IDSS participants together through hands-on horticulture sessions held on Education Queensland grounds.


It's pracitcal, purposeful, and it's bringing people together in the best kind of way.


Two women smile while planting seedlings in soil. They're under a canopy in front of red barns. One wears a patterned cap; the other a green shirt.

Building the Foundations

Like any good project, this one started with preparation.


With support from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, the smaller shade house at the school was restored and the right tools were put in place to make the project possible.


It meant we could move from talking about the idea to actually rolling up our sleeves and getting started, building something that benefits students and IDSS participants alike.



Man in a green shirt and hat adjusts green netting on a garden frame. Sunny day, with trees and a red car in the background.

Practical Learning and Inclusive Participation

Growing Together Green Space Childers now comes to life during regular, prearranged sessions on school grounds.


Students from Isis District State High School and IDSS participants work alongside each other, potting up seedlings, planting, watering and caring for the space together.


Students gain real, hands-on horticulture experience. Our participants build confidence, routine and practical skills. Conversations happen naturally. Knowledge is shared. Laughter usually follows.


It's amazing what can grow when people simply work side by side.


It's inclusive practice in action. Different abilities. Shared purpose.


Four people stand in a greenhouse with green mesh walls. They smile, surrounded by potted plants on tables. Casual attire; sunny day.

Approved Volunteering Opportunities in Childers

We're now stepping into the next stage of the project, welcoming people who'd like to get involved.


Because the project takes place on Education Queensland grounds, there is a simple process to follow. Volunteers need to hold a current Blue Card and complete the school’s induction before joining us. All sessions are prearranged and run in partnership with Isis District State High School.


It helps keep the space safe, organised and supportive for everyone involved, while still creating a really meaningful way to contribute here in Childers.


If you love horticulture and believe in inclusive, hands-on learning, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Debbie Tedge on 0412 158 345.


A Local Childers Collaboration That Keeps Growing

Growing Together Green Space demonstrates what's possible when disability support services, schools and local businesses work together.


We'd like to thank the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal through the Strengthening Rural Communities program for the support.


We'd also like to thank:

  • MJJ Earthmoving

  • Lex Allen at Nutrien Ag

  • Isis Hardware

  • Barnyard Stockfeeds

  • Doug Harm for his significant hands-on contribution


From one conversation in Childers, a meaningful partnership has taken root.


And we're SO excited to see what continues to grow.


 
 
 

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