Lendlease’s masterplanned Averley community has engaged social enterprise CERES 3000acres to support locals in the Pakenham East community to grow and share food together.
As the cost of living continues to rise in Australia, Averley’s collaboration with the CERES 3000acres program will encourage the community to grow their own fresh produce at home in their own backyards, learn more about healthy eating habits and sustainable food practices, and share their produce with their neighbours.
A collection of free seeds with growing instructions will be available to visitors of the Averley Sales and Information Centre, with marigolds, silverbeet and broccoli some of the seeds on offer.
Future Averley residents will be offered educational materials on how to best utilise their new seeds and tips to grow their own produce to kick start their gardening journey, which will be shared across Averley’s Facebook page and website.
Lendlease Head of Communities, Victoria, Anne Jolic said the initiative emphasised the importance of creating a happy and healthy community environment at Averley.
“Our collaboration with CERES 3000acres aims to inspire and educate residents on the techniques for growing produce in the garden and creating delicious and nutritious meals encouraging a more sustainable and cost-saving lifestyle.
“Much like Averley, CERES 3000acres is dedicated to creating thriving communities, and we are excited to facilitate their incredible work in our neighbourhood.”
The Averley Sales and Information Centre will become home to a local food showcase that displays products sourced from independent producers in the region. Jams, olives, preserves, and sparkling juices are just some of the items available for purchase from local food producers.
Over the next 12 months, Averley will also launch an event series with the enterprise, with in-depth cooking classes led by local food makers, teaching participants how to make the most of their pantry.
CERES 3000acres Community Food Systems Manager, Merrin Layden, said: “We are excited to be working with the Pakenham East PSP community and future residents of Averley to promote and support their food growing journey. Through sharing seeds, delivering workshops, and hosting events, we are helping to connect people to the earth and each other.”
With the first two stages currently under construction, Averley will deliver 1500 new homes upon completion, with the first residents expected to move in by mid-2024.
A new park and playground for the region are being constructed with these first stages, so open spaces and places to explore are ready for when the first residents move in.
