While the red sands of Kintore might suggest difficulty in agriculture, primary school students at the local school carried out a defiant mission against the odds, and now as a result have a beautiful garden they are all incredibly proud of.

The school garden project that was first carried out earlier this year, and recently revisited, has had massive success is providing an opportunity for young students to learn more about the joy that comes with gardening.

The impact of giving students the chance to engage in an outdoor activity is still being felt. Not only has it increased attendance, but for some has opened up a keen interest in the activity.

Having our facilitator Chris Hagan on the team meant having a well experienced insight into the process of landscaping with this being his background. Chris was able to provide a proactive and effective lesson with the students who all showed a keen interest in what he was able to teach them. From clearing the spaces of buffel grass, to building garden beds and using math in a fun way, this is a way to inspire those who might want to explore this type of trade as a future career.

How Deadly Is This?

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The garden beds are located within the school grounds are a reminder of the pride they put into creating something special. The results are finally being seen with some of the flowers and vegetables beginning to grow and bloom.

The School Garden has been set up for multi-purpose use to provide vegetables and fruit for cooking classes and nutritional health programs as well as encouraging the students to take the produce home to use in their own kitchens.

Healing Through Horticulture: The Therapeutic Power of Gardening

There’s a reason many people dabble in the world of gardening, and that’s because they find it to be therapeutic. Watching something you put hard work into, and seeing the results brings about a sense of achievement. It also provides gratitude through maintaining and caring for something that requires your time and attention. The team recognised the mental stimulation many of the students received which has led to a commitment from the teachers to provide ongoing sessions within the garden, so this feeling doesn’t fade but continues to be harvested, nurtured and inspiring.

We can't wait to see the growth that comes from this project, both within the students and the garden itself.

“Everything went well, good engagement from the kids, and strong attention. They focused on the program and getting the work done. They did a great job clearing up that buffel grass, and planting their plants; sunflowers, and lots of fruits and vegegtables"

Chris Hagan, Red Dust Program Coordinator

Your donation helps support mental health, connection, and well-being in communities that need it most. Every dollar helps plant seeds of resilience—whether it’s through hands-on gardening programs, culturally safe spaces, or resources for those seeking peace and purpose.