Townsville residents are being encouraged to get growing this autumn through a free home gardening program designed to make it easier than ever to grow fresh, seasonal food at home.
Townsville City Council has partnered with Grow It Local to deliver the program, inviting locals to join a national community of backyard, balcony, community and windowsill gardeners across the country.
Through the partnership, new Grow It Local members can sign up to receive free seasonal seeds delivered to their door, plus access to easy instructional videos featuring tips and tricks from some of Australia's favourite gardeners.
Well-known horticulturalists including Paul West, Yen (First True Leaves) and Michael (Gardening with Michael) have been recruited to help guide growers through the program.
Participants can also get personalised tips through the "Ask an Expert" service and are invited to join live online workshops.
The launch of the program has been so successful that Council's initial seed allocation was exhausted in just a few days, however another 100 free seed packs have been secured and are now available.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said whether you've got a green thumb or have struggled to keep plants alive, the free autumn gardening program could be for you.
"Growing your own food is rewarding, healthy, and sustainable but it's becoming a lost skill these days with how busy our lives are," Cr Dametto said.
"As a Council, we're committed to making it easier for people to grow their own food, and to live and eat well. The Grow It Local program is a great way to do this as it gives residents everything they need to get started, along with expert support when they need it.
"It's a practical, hands‑on opportunity for people of all ages and skill levels to learn something new and connect with a national gardening community."
To participate in the program, register on the Grow It Local website any time between now and 21 March, or until all extra seed packs are claimed.
