(Left to Right) Craig, Lynda, Sue, Graham and Nerise. 

A blossoming garden is the centrepiece of a thriving Mitchell Park community – and residents Craig and Lynda are at the heart of it all.

“Whenever we move into a new rental property we try our best to make it our own,” said Lynda. “And hopefully, to leave it in better shape than when we moved in.”

The communal vegetable garden, which is located at the end of their cul-de-sac, began as a personal project for Craig to keep busy following an injury.

However, it soon developed a life of its own when residents from all along the street began showing interest and contributing.

“Before Craig and Lynda moved in, the area was just empty,” Sheila, a neighbour, said. “But now it’s the central point for all of us.”

“People will come by to water it, plant seeds, and have a chat” Craig said. “It’s become a bit of a collective effort.”

Like its garden, the community has also blossomed – built on a foundation of mutual respect and genuine care.

“We don’t live in each other’s pockets, but we do look out for each other.” Sue, another neighbour, said. “It keeps us happy, seeing each other.”

“Many of us here are living with health problems,” added Sue’s husband Graham.

Craig and Lynda’s influence has also planted deeper seeds of change.

“They’ve really transformed my life,” Nerise, who lives next door, said. “I have a head injury from a car accident and have really struggled to reorganise my life, but Craig and Lynda helped me get back into a routine.”

“I think it’s a real shame if you don’t know your neighbours,” Lynda said. “Having them there to support you when you need it – that’s what it’s all about.”