Ararat Rural City Council's compost program is proving powerful for a local resident who has reported extraordinary results from a small trial on her local property.
Working within a modest 30 x 30 metre plot, Tag Lewis has transformed nutrient-poor ground into a thriving, highly productive garden using compost made from the green waste taken by residents to Council's transfer stations.
"We've got no topsoil here at all, but the compost has completely changed that," said Tag. "It's full of beneficial fungi and life; it's just good, healthy soil."
The results have been nothing short of impressive. Corn has grown to an astonishing 3.5 metres tall, while pumpkins, gourds, watermelons, and sunflowers have flourished well beyond expectations. More than 20 varieties of sunflowers have even drawn visitors driving past the property to take in the display. A wide range of crops including tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, silver beet, lettuce and spring onions have thrived, despite a challenging dry season.
The compost has proven particularly effective at retaining moisture, a crucial benefit during low rainfall periods, with additional water sourced from on-site dams, said Tag.
"The size and quality of the crops speak for themselves," she said. "We've had huge yields, and even mushrooms coming through, which shows how fertile the soil is."
Initially intended as an experiment to support household food production, the project has lasted nearly two years with minimal additional inputs. Tag now plans to expand the use of compost on the property and is considering small-scale sales in the future.
ARCC CEO Dr Tim Harrison said it was fantastic to see the circular system in action.
"In a joint project between Ararat Rural City Council and Gaia EnviroTech, the compost is created from green waste collected from residents," said Dr Harrison. "The green waste is mulched and transformed into high-quality compost, which then goes back into the community to support healthier soils. It's a great example of turning waste into something that benefits both people and the environment."
Compost is available for $5 per bag, or $80 per cubic metre, and delivery within the Ararat Rural City municipality can be arranged. If you'd like to purchase some compost, please call Council Customer Service on 5355 0200.
