Willoughby City Council's Devonshire Street Children's Centre in Chatswood has been recognised nationally for its intergenerational vegetable garden, which brings children and grandparents together to grow, learn and share knowledge.
The centre won the Wellbeing Champions category at the National Kitchen Garden Awards, which recognises gardens that support children's wellbeing. Almost 650 entries were received from primary schools, secondary schools and early childhood services across Australia, with 27 finalists and nine category winners selected.
Willoughby City Mayor Tanya Taylor said the garden showed how simple, shared experiences could build stronger connections across generations.
"When we create opportunities for people of different generations to come together, we strengthen connections to our community and to each other. This garden is helping pass knowledge, culture and traditions from one generation to the next," Mayor Taylor said.
"Children are also learning where their food comes from while giving grandparents an opportunity to share their stories and wisdom with a new generation."
The garden was developed after the centre's teaching team observed that many families were separated from their extended families, while some older community members faced challenges connecting with their local community.
Grandparents now visit the centre to help children plant and care for vegetables, sharing cultural experiences, gardening knowledge and practical skills. Through the program, children have formed meaningful relationships with older people who visit, while learning about plants, fresh food and the natural environment.
The garden has been running for several years, with the centre planning to expand the project further this spring.
The National Kitchen Garden Awards celebrate gardens that help children explore sustainability, grow fresh food, learn new skills, share culture and connect with their communities.
Devonshire Street Children's Centre will receive a prize package valued at almost $5,000, including a $1,000 cash grant, Kitchen Garden Program membership and a kitchen garden bundle.
