Gold Coast University Hospital Community Garden
The Community Garden provides a calm environment for the staff, patients and the community. Through $7,500 in funding donated by Southport Sharks to concrete an area for tables in the Gold Coast University Hospital Community Garden, the space now provides benefits far beyond growing healthy food. It is a regular spot for staff and patients to share relaxed meals and de-stress by connecting with nature. Herbs are also regularly harvested to use for organic, herbal teas.
Upkeep of the garden serves as an excellent way to relax the mind and recover from trauma, which the emergency department team have found extremely effective for patients and clinicians alike. Volunteers also visit the garden, offering gardening advice and support to staff who are interested in learning more about the broad health benefits of working and growing their own fruit and vegetables.
The garden’s homage to Indigenous plant uses
We met Margot who is passionate about the garden and raising awareness of local plants used by Indigenous people not only to flavour food but to heal, such as the lemon myrtle. The garden has become a symbol of connection between the community and health service workers and is another example of how Gold Coast Health aims to cultivate a healthy Gold Coast community.
Southport Sharks Community Benefit Fund
Southport Sharks continues its commitment to the local Gold Coast community, through our charity support program, with $1 from each membership fee donated to the member’s charity of choice.
If you would like to read more about GCHF service or fundraising events, please visit their website gchfoundation.org.au
Photos show the Gold Coast University Hospital Community Garden space with volunteers and staff.