Grow It Local campaign takes root
Published on 18 February 2026
Fraser Coast Regional Council will officially launch the Grow It Local campaign in April, encouraging residents to attend hands-on gardening events, meet gardening experts Paul West and Darryl Nichols, and register for the Grow It Local online program.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the Grow It Local team will visit the Fraser Coast on Wednesday April 1 to help kick-start the 2026 program focused on home-grown food, sustainability and waste minimisation.
“Grow It Local is a national online program designed to help people feel confident to grow their own food, reduce waste and connect with others who share a love of gardening,” Cr Seymour said.
“The Grow It Local website, which is now live, offers free, practical tips and trusted advice to support residents to grow food at home, compost organic waste and make small changes that add up to a big impact.
“Members also receive free seeds delivered twice a year, with limited quantities available for the first mail-out next month and the second in October,” said Cr Seymour.
“Nationwide, the website already has more than 46,000 members, with its information helping divert 62,831 kilograms of food from landfill each week and avoiding more than 125,000 kilograms of emissions.
“Locally, more than 100 Fraser Coast residents have already signed up, and we encourage anyone interested in gardening, sustainability or reducing food waste to get involved.”
Residents who sign up to the Grow It Local program can access:
- Free Online Resources: Step-by-step guides, articles, and expert advice.
- Expert Workshops: Monthly online sessions featuring gardening legends like Costa Georgiadis and Paul West.
- Seed Service: Eligible residents can receive free heirloom seeds delivered to their door twice a year, with limited quantities available.
- Community Events: Held locally in Maryborough and Hervey Bay.
Cr Seymour said residents are encouraged to register for the local community gardening events on Wednesday April 1, to meet the Grow It Local team in person and pick up practical gardening tips from the experts.
“Whether you have a backyard, balcony or just a sunny windowsill, Grow It Local makes gardening simple and fun for beginners and experienced gardeners alike,” he said.
Community Event Details:
Lupton Park Community Garden, Maryborough
Wednesday, 1 April | 8.30am – 10.30am
Take part in a hands-on community workshop, meet the Grow It Local team including Paul West and Darryl Nichols, and enjoy a light morning tea provided.
Places are limited – register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/grow-it-local-day-lupton-park-community-garden-tickets-1982142854636
Halcro Street Community Garden, Hervey Bay
Wednesday, 1 April | 1pm – 3pm
Join us for a sausage sizzle, kids’ nature craft activities, garden tours and a meet-and-greet with Paul West and Darryl Nichols.
Places are limited – register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/grow-it-local-day-halcro-street-community-garden-tickets-1981913634031?
Council’s Resource Recovery spokesperson Cr Michelle Byrne said the Grow It Local campaign was a great opportunity to welcome gardening experts like Paul and Darryl to the region while promoting practical, sustainable living.
“Events like this build knowledge, strengthen community connections and inspire residents to start growing, composting and reducing waste at home,” Cr Byrne said.
“If you’re unable to attend a community garden event, residents can still draw inspiration through virtual Grow It Local events, with opportunities to learn, ask questions and connect from home.
Cr Byrne said Council is proud to launch the Grow It Local campaign as part of its ongoing commitment to education, environmental sustainability and waste reduction.”
For more information about Grow It Local and to register, visit: https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/grow-it-local