Wilkins Green 

Wilkins Green began in 2004 as part of the Marrickville Belonging Project, to protect and develop the existing green space and habitat located on the western boundary of Wilkins Public School grounds bordering Livingstone Road.

It has been a project in community development (as opposed to urban development) since discussions and consultations began in 2002. Marrickville Council, Petersham TAFE Outreach and Wilkins Public School have been key partners in establishing Wilkins Green as an important sustainable learning site featuring a food garden, chicken run, bush regeneration ridge and Aboriginal planting track. Wilkins Green recently won the Keep Australia Beautiful NSW Sustainable Garden Challenge, schools division, and was runner up in the National Landcare awards.

In addition to the benefits of being outdoors, invigorated by natural light, physical
activity, fresh air, smells and sounds, the learning opportunities for students include:

• Creating and observing habitat
• Life cycles and survival needs
• Interrelatedness of climate, plants, insects, animals and people
• Seasonal change and produce
• Respect and responsibility for the land that grows our food and a fun way to develop healthy eating habits
• Conservation of resources
• Composting and natural fertilisers
• Soil and microorganisms
• Reducing green waste in landfill
• Cooperation and communication.
• Sharing cultural knowledge and customs.

The whole school community is encouraged to share in caretaking and general maintenance as well planning for future visions. Green fingers not necessary.

Herb garden at Wilkins Green

The Wilkins Green community also includes those who support the project through grants and in kind contributions, sharing knowledge and expertise as well as those who come to learn, work and play there: Wilkins P&C, Waste Services Network, Petbarn, NRMA Insurance, Inner West Aborginal Community Company, Globe Wilkins Preschool, Addison Road Community Nursery, Alfalfa House, Marrickville Youth Resource Centre and Aboriginal Women’s Playgroup.