GENERAL INFO

What is the Illawarra Edible Garden Trail?

The Illawarra Edible Garden Trail is an annual ticketed, self-guided weekend event showcasing home, community, market and school gardens growing food naturally. Focused on the Illawarra, the 2023 event is hosted in partnership with Food Fairness Illawarra with thanks to sponsors Gilly’s Kitchen Garden and Treemates. This will be a fun, educational weekend meandering through edible gardens between Helensburgh and Woonona. It’s all about connecting budding gardeners with well-rooted growers, and sharing all the growing tricks and tips for different environments. Ticket buyers can visit the gardens that interest them, and plan their weekend to suit.

When is the Illawarra Edible Garden Trail in 2023?

The inaugural Illawarra Edible Garden Trail is happening on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 November from 10am-3pm. Note that not all gardens will be open both days – some will be open all weekend, while others will be open just Saturday or just Sunday. Profiles and open days of each garden are listed under our Profiles page.

Where does the Illawarra Edible Garden Trail take place?

This year the trail will take place between Helensburgh and Woonona , extending year-on-year to the rest of the Illawarra to build community around food growing progressively.

What is the purpose of the Illawarra Edible Garden Trail?

The purpose of the trail is to help aspiring and enthusiastic food growers to learn from, and connect with, each other, sharing knowledge and practical advice in local gardens. We are working within our community to connect people through growing food, and at the same time helping to green our suburbs in a sustainable, earth friendly way. We aim to give locals and visitors the tools to build soil, reduce their carbon footprint and provide food security. 

How do I learn more about the gardens included?

Profiles of each garden are listed under our Profiles page and shorter profiles will be included on the event map for ticket holders.

What does the ticket price include?

Ticket price covers access to all gardens for both Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm. Ticket holders are provided with a map of the trail (2 weeks prior to the trail), a description of gardens and a wristband to access the gardens. Ticket buyers can visit the gardens that interest them, and plan their weekend to suit.

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets are available online on Eventbrite here. Tickets need to be purchased online to participate in this event. If you would like to attend the event on the day, please purchase your ticket online. You will then need to collect your wristband for the weekend at our wristband collection sites to begin the trail (you will receive details about this closer to the date).

How do I pick up my wristband and map?

We will send a PDF map with garden addresses and descriptions a few weeks before the event. Collect your wristband starting at 9am on Saturday and Sunday of the event weekend at Gilly’s Kitchen Garden in Otford (north) or Woonona Community Garden in Woonona (south).

What happens to the money raised from ticket sales?

Funds raised through ticket sales are used to cover event costs this includes marketing, project management, equipment and more. This is important to ensure that the trail is professional and can grow each year.

How did the Illawarra Edible Garden Trail get started?

The Illawarra Edible Garden Trail was inspired by existing edible garden trails in NSW as well as the local Northern Illawarra Art Trail. Organised by a small group of local neighbours and friends, the founders hope to further strengthen and share the wealth of growing knowledge right here in the Illawarra.

PRACTICAL INFO

How do I get to the Illawarra Edible Garden Trail?

Generally, we recommend driving between gardens. Think about carpooling or arranging a group visit. The bus and train may also be possible for some gardens, but others may be less accessible and require walking or cycling, including steep hills.

Can I bring my dog?

Sorry, no. Many of our gardens have chickens and other animals on site. We ask that you don’t bring your dog with you on the trail.

Is the trail OK for children?

Yes, children are welcome, but please keep them in sight at all times while exploring the gardens. Some gardens have ponds, bees and other hazards.

Can I purchase refreshments on the Trail?

Please bring your own water and snacks with you. Consider a picnic and stop for lunch at one of the Trail’s community gardens. Or try a cafe or restaurant close by.

Some gardens may be selling produce, seedlings and plants. Check the garden profiles for information.

I’m new to gardening. What will I learn?

You’re in the right place. Every garden will inspire you with ideas for your next gardening project. It is so valuable to see what can be grown in your local area, and to learn from experienced gardeners.

MORE

How can I get involved?

Wow! Thank you! There are many ways you can get involved. If you live in the Illawarra and would like to open your garden, please read on to the next question.

If you’d like to volunteer your time, please get in touch. We are always keen for volunteers to help out. If you have social media, legal, event management or administrative skills, we would love to hear from you. If you are an aligned business and would like to offer support, we’d love to hear from you.

How do I become a Garden Host?

Again, thank you! If your garden is between Helensburgh and Woonona you’re eligible to host in 2023. If your garden is in the wider Illawarra area, please let us know that you’d be interested in hosting in future years when we expand to your area. 

To get in touch about hosting please complete this 5 minute form or email us at gardentrail@foodfairnessillawarra.org.au