From empty beds to thriving gardens

• Village News

Sonia Lim 23 Jan 2026

The joy of gardening is well and truly in full bloom in RFBI Armidale Masonic Village.

What began as four empty garden beds has grown into a vibrant and productive garden space that residents now look forward to tending each day. With the support of the Leisure & Lifestyle team, residents have helped transform the area into flourishing beds filled with colour, fresh produce and plenty of pride.

The gardens now include a cheerful sunflower bed, a mixed flower bed and a variety of vegetables such as zucchinis, cucumbers, carrots, spring onions, bok choy and spinach. Residents have enjoyed being involved in every step of the process – from planting and watering to watching the garden grow week by week.

A recent highlight was harvesting the very first carrot, with Leisure & Lifestyle team member Wilma and resident Roger proudly leading the way. While it turns out the carrot could have enjoyed a little more time in the soil, the moment sparked laughter and friendly advice from some of the village’s more experienced gardeners, who were quick to share their knowledge.

As cucumbers and zucchinis are now ready to pick, the fresh produce is being shared with residents, families and friends of RFBI Armidale. This is a wonderful way to extend the sense of community beyond the garden beds.

Gardening has become more than just an activity at RFBI Armidale Masonic Village. It’s a source of connection, learning and daily enjoyment, offering residents a meaningful way to stay active, engaged and connected to nature.

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