Free winter workshops help locals grow food

Published on 15 June 2026

Person walking on path between community gardens at Halcro Street
  • Free Grow It Local workshops coming to Hervey Bay and Maryborough this July
  • Learn seasonal planting, soil health and composting tips for the Fraser Coast climate
  • More than 500 Fraser Coast residents have already joined the Grow It Local program

Fraser Coast residents are being invited to roll up their sleeves and get growing this winter, with two free Grow It Local workshops coming to Hervey Bay and Maryborough next month.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the workshops build on the success of Council's partnership with Grow It Local, which has already attracted more than 500 Fraser Coast residents to the online gardening program since its launch in April.

“It has been fantastic to see so many locals embrace Grow It Local and discover just how rewarding it can be to grow your own food at home,” he said.

“These free workshops are a great opportunity for people to learn practical gardening skills, connect with other local growers and gain confidence in producing fresh food in our subtropical climate.

“Whether you have a large backyard, a few garden beds or just some pots on a balcony, these workshops will provide simple, practical advice to help your garden thrive.”

Cr Seymour said the workshops will cover seasonal planting, soil health, composting and other easy ways to grow food at home while reducing waste.

“Participants will also receive free seedlings and planting guides to help them put their new knowledge into practice,” he said.

Upcoming workshops include:

Grow With the Seasons: Winter Grow It Local - Hervey Bay
Halcro Street Community Garden, Hervey Bay
Wednesday 15 July, 9am to 10.30am

Grow With the Seasons: Winter Grow It Local - Maryborough
Lupton Park Community Garden, Maryborough
Wednesday 29 July, 9am to 10.30am

At the workshops, participants will:

• Discover what to plant this season
• Learn soil health and composting tips
• Explore simple ways to grow food at home
• Take home seedlings and planting guides
• Connect with fellow local gardeners

Cr Seymour said Grow It Local was helping residents develop practical skills while supporting sustainability and waste reduction across the Fraser Coast.

“Growing even a small amount of your own food can help reduce household waste, save money and create a stronger connection with where our food comes from,” he said.

“Council is proud to support programs that help residents live more sustainably while bringing people together through shared interests.”

Residents can register for the free workshops and join the Grow It Local online program at: https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/grow-it-local

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