An underused patch of land at BaptistCare's Narralling Housing Community in Elderslie, NSW, has been transformed by its residents into a thriving Bush Tucker Garden – bringing neighbours, generations and local organisations together through a shared interest in gardening, learning and connection.
Created in response to resident feedback, the Bush Tucker Garden has evolved into a productive green space and vibrant community hub shaped by residents, for residents.
Narralling’s residents co-created the project after identifying a desire for greater social connection, meaningful activities, and stronger recognition of Aboriginal culture within their community.
Featuring a range of native bush tucker species, the garden provides opportunities to learn about Australia's traditional edible and medicinal plants and the knowledge associated with their use.
Hector Ritchie, a proud Dunghutti man who has lived at Narralling for almost six years and helped champion the project from its early stages, said the Bush Tucker Garden has brought people together in unexpected ways.
“It's brought people out of their homes. People you didn't even know were there have come along and got involved," Hector said.
"I've met more Aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal people through the project, and it's been great to see everyone come together."
A yarning circle, created as part of the garden, has become another important gathering place where residents can come together to learn, share stories and connect.
"It's a privilege to tell people about where you come from, what you've done and how you do your artwork," Hector said.
"The yarning circle is very important for the community. People need a place to sit together, talk, learn and connect. It is somewhere people can come together and share their stories."
Importantly, the garden also spans generations. Located next to BaptistCare’s Angus Bristow Retirement Village and Glendale Lodge aged care home, the garden has brought together people of different ages and backgrounds to exchange knowledge and work alongside one another.
A recent community day and barbecue brought together residents of Narralling and Angus Bristow for a joint painting project to decorate the totems that take pride of place in the garden.
Rachel Reid, Housing Manager, said close to 120 people have contributed to the project to date, coming together to take part in working bees, planting days and other community activities.
"What started with residents wanting greater connection has grown into something that belongs to the whole community,"Rachelsaid.
"Community housing is more than providing a roof over someone's head. It's about creating places where people feel connected, valued and empowered to contribute. This garden shows what's possible when residents are empowered to shape the places where they live, building confidence, leadership, and stronger neighbourhood connections in the process.
“The Bush Tucker Garden doesn't just grow native plants. It's become a place where people, culture and community grow together, and that's what makes it so special."
The initiative has also drawn support from across the local Macarthur community, including Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, Indigenous nursery Indigigrow, The Gardenmakers, Friendly Fred's Tree Services and Camden Council, which have all contributed expertise, resources and support to help the garden flourish.
Residents continue to play an active role in planning, maintaining and developing the garden, ensuring it continues to grow alongside the community that created it.
