Hi °C | Lo °C My GIY Life – GIY Waterford
In conversation with group co-ordinators Gemma, Aisling and Chris.
What got you involved in your local group?
The three of us got involved in GIY to be part of a community of food growers. We each individually had an interest in gardening. Aisling and Gemma felt the need to share knowledge and Chris gets a kick out of being able to ask the oddest questions and knowing that someone in the group will have a suggestion.
Where does the group meet?
The Waterford group was the first GIY group and has met in Waterford City Library since 2008. In November 2012, we made the brave move to Oasis Garden, part of Comeragh Day Centre for adults with intellectual disabilities. In return for allowing our group use of the centre, we have given them volunteers to work alongside the adults in the garden.
What kind of a mix of people do you have?
We are lucky to have a brilliant mix of young and old, beginners and experienced growers. The numbers vary from 20 to 90 people. We get a wealth of gardening information, hands-on demos and a very welcoming community.
What do you do when you meet up?
We have seedling swaps, seasonal discussions and meitheals where we all pitch in to get jobs done. The best meet up is in December for the quiz.
Wyse Park community garden (which Waterford City Council supplied the land and materials for) is the newest project. We have several demo beds, and others are shared among community groups around the city.
What was your finest hour?
The big move to the Oasis garden was the group's finest hour! The group needed a kickstart. We felt that the facilities and chance for a 'hands-on approach' will help our group to grow once again. We are lucky to have the founding GIY Ireland staff still involved in the group.
What would you say to encourage people to come to meetings?
In this great growing community, you can learn where to start, share your knowledge and make new friends who are passionate about growing.
If anyone new is interested then come along to our meetings which are now held in the Oasis Garden, in the Comeragh Centre, Northern Extension Estate in Waterford City.
We meet at 7pm on the last Wednesday of every month. Contact us at waterfordgiy@gmail.com
• If you are interested in being profiled for My GIY Life, please email info@giyireland.com
Irish Independent
