A conversation under a Mulberry Tree was the impetus for a wonderful organisation that not only transforms unused land into productive gardens but also transforms lives.

According to The Mulberry Project Founder, Louise Noble, the organisation is all about engagement. Currently it is helping people tackle social isolation – especially Toowoomba’s migrant community.

“Around 85% of our participants are migrants and the others are a mix of people with different needs including change of career or returning to work,” she said.

The Project works with around six different ethnic groups. While each group has a different backstory, they share a common desire for cultural gardens where they can grow food that is important to their lifestyle.

It’s great when community groups join forces and collaborate. Toowoomba Showgrounds recently collaborated with The Mulberry Project to create extensive, productive gardens ready for the Toowoomba Show.

OTHER COMMUNITY GROUPS REPRESENTED:

• Rotary Clubs x 6
• Lions Clubs x 4
• Zonta Club
• Qld Country Women’s Association
• Apex Club
• Toowoomba Hospital Foundation
• Toowoomba Hospice
• Toowoomba Historical Association
• Cancer Council Qld
• Red Cross
• Independent Retirees
• Toowoomba Older Men’s Network
• Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland
• Australian Conservation Foundation
• Toowoomba Clubhouse-Mental Health Support Service
• Multicultural Australia Toowoomba Community Organic Gardens Assoc. Inc.
• Catholic Care Social Services
• Tony’s Community Kitchen
• Toowoomba Base Services

Inset Photo: Ngandi Muherwa, came to Toowoomba three years ago from Congo. Together with other volunteers and students from local schools, he has created amazing moveable garden beds as well as hedges of corn and sunflowers.