The sun is the gardener’s friend, and it is set to be even more important for the volunteers at Warners Bay Community Garden.

The group will receive $17,500 towards the Warners Bay Community Garden Green Energy Project as part of the NSW Government’s $37.2 million Local Small Commitments Allocation Program.

The funds will enable the generation and storage of clean solar energy and allow the Warners Bay Community Garden to educate the community on sustainable practices and conduct community events.

Since its establishment in 2012 on the grounds of Bunya Park, Warners Bay Community Garden has been a valued community resource, providing a 24/7 accessible source of sustainable, organic vegetables, fruit and herbs. It has also provided an opportunity for local people to come together and volunteer their support in maintaining and developing the site, which has provided meaningful social connections.

Jodie Harrison MP, Member for Charlestown, said Warners Bay Community Garden was an inspiration in the way its members innovated and made the most of all their resources.

“I’m sure this project will be an inspiration to community gardens everywhere."

Adrian Eisler, Warners Bay Community Garden Secretary said the group was delighted to receive this grant from the Minns Labor Government for the Warners Bay Community Garden Green Energy Project.

“The funding will enable us to realise a long-held goal of transitioning from fossil fuel to clean, green solar-generated electrical power. As a result, we will now be able to use battery-powered  garden tools and equipment, instead of noisy, polluting, petrol-powered ones.”

For further information on the Local Small Commitments Allocation Program visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/lsca-home