From Garden Waste to Community Connections

16 Jun 2025

Composting is a sustainable way to recycle organic waste, turning it into rich, fertile soil that helps our garden thrive.

Last week, the Kitchen Garden was alive with energy as ANU students came together for the Community Compost event, turning autumn leaves and garden waste into nutrient-rich plant fertiliser.

Under a canopy of crisp autumn air, participants rolled up their sleeves to help create a compost system for the Kitchen Garden. Whether they were raking leaves, shredding paper, or lending a hand with the setup, everyone contributed to this sustainable initiative.

No prior gardening knowledge or skills were required, just a willingness to get a little messy and embrace the community spirit. The event was a perfect mix of learning and doing, as participants not only built the compost pile but also discovered how composting works and why it鈥檚 essential for growing healthy crops naturally.

After a morning of hard work, everyone gathered to enjoy a cosy afternoon tea featuring warm soup and baked bread. Conversations flowed as participants exchanged stories and appreciated the beauty of sustainable gardening.

What is the Kitchen Garden?

The Kitchen Garden is more than just a garden - it鈥檚 a community! Designed to bring ANU students and staff together, this fun and sustainable program lets you connect with nature, grow fresh produce, and share delicious meals with friends. Kitchen Garden sits within the Student Life team and is all about creating connections while embracing sustainability. Whether you鈥檝e got a green thumb or have never held a trowel, this is a space for everyone to learn, share, and thrive.

Why Compost?

Composting is an effective way to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil that fuels healthy plant growth and supports sustainable gardening practices. By recycling everyday materials like food scraps, garden trimmings and paper, composting reduces waste sent to landfills and cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions. The end result is a natural fertiliser that enriches the soil and helps crops flourish without relying on synthetic alternatives.

It鈥檚 also an opportunity to come together as a community. From learning about sustainable practices to working collaboratively on composting projects, the process creates a shared sense of purpose and connection. Composting is a practical and impactful step toward environmental sustainability, allowing us to reduce waste, nurture our environment, and build meaningful connections along the way

Missed out this time?

Student Life has plenty more exciting events lined up! for updates and future event announcements. Whether you鈥檙e a seasoned green thumb or just looking to meet new people and try something new, there鈥檚 a place for you in our next event.

Page Owner: Wellbeing