TURSA Partners with Ngerrie LALC to Create a Community Garden and Yarning Circle

A once historic site is being transformed into a thriving space for connection, learning and community growth, thanks to a collaborative partnership between TURSA, Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council (NLALC) and Landcare.

After being part of the region’s history for more than 130 years, part of the former Old Grafton Gaol site was returned to the Grafton NLALC. Over the past two years, a shared vision has been brought to life, transforming the space into a welcoming community garden and Yarning Circle where people can come together to connect, share knowledge and strengthen community ties.

The project is about more than restoring land. It is creating opportunities for people to build skills, confidence and pathways toward employment while contributing to something meaningful for their community.

Through the initiative, ten TURSA participants have gained valuable hands-on experience working on the garden’s development. From preparing garden beds and planting produce to maintaining the space and learning practical land management skills, participants have developed workplace capabilities while making a lasting contribution to the project.

For many participants, the experience has provided an opportunity to grow not only practical skills but also confidence, teamwork and a sense of purpose. Working alongside community organisations and contributing to a project with long-term benefits has helped participants build their employability while creating positive social connections.

The community garden and Yarning Circle will continue to serve as a place where people can gather, learn and share stories, fostering cultural connection and community wellbeing for generations to come.

This transformation is a powerful example of what can be achieved when organisations and community come together with a shared purpose. By combining local knowledge, community leadership and employment support, the project is creating lasting positive change for both participants and the broader community.

At TURSA, we are proud to support initiatives that strengthen communities, create meaningful opportunities and help people build brighter futures through participation, learning and employment.

TEL 1800 670 914

TURSA Partners with Ngerrie LALC to Create a Community Garden and Yarning Circle

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