Yarra Valley Water employees have once again come together to support Mitcham Community House, planting trees and revitalising the garden as the local community bedrock gets ready to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
Mitcham Community House Chair Wendy Gander said a community grant coupled with hands-on help from volunteers has reinvigorated the community garden and playground areas.
“Mitcham Community House is getting ready to celebrate 50 years of operation later this year, and the help from Yarra Valley Water means we will look and feel great for our celebratory Open Day in May,” said Ms Gander.
The volunteer day at Mitcham Community House saw over 150 trees planted as well as important habitat and garden restoration work, building on a successful volunteer day in spring 2024. This effort is part of Yarra Valley Water’s ongoing commitment to community support.
Yarra Valley Water Divisional Manager Asset Transformation and Technology Danny Ivanoski said the organisation’s volunteer program is a way to give back to communities.
“Our volunteer program benefits the organisations we work with and creates a sense of connection for our staff at the same time. By taking this time to work with Mitcham Community House, we’ve created a vibrant space for kids and families to enjoy and left a lasting legacy to help the community thrive,” said Mr Ivanoski.
This recent volunteer effort builds on previous support provided by Yarra Valley Water’s Asset Planning staff in 2024. The volunteer crew established a new garden and wildlife habitat as part of a successful community grant application which provided over $5,500 investment in plants and materials.
Ms Gander also said the organisation relies on community support to deliver a range of programs, and the outside space fosters a supportive environment where community members of all ages can learn, interact, and grow.
“Mitcham Community House offers a wide range of affordable and inclusive recreational and educational classes and social activities, childcare, playgroups, and support programs for people of all ages. The garden and playground are central to the strong sense of wellbeing we have here and we’re grateful for Yarra Valley Water’s ongoing support,” said Ms Gander.
Yarra Valley Water General Manager of Strategy and Community Tiffany White said supporting local organisations like Mitcham Community House through volunteering and grants provides rewarding and meaningful benefits for everyone.
“We were delighted to support Mitcham Community House last year with a community grant and some hands-on help from our staff volunteers to create a shared garden space and wildlife habitat. Revisiting the garden with more volunteers is a fabulous way to help the space blossom into a true haven for people and wildlife to enjoy,” said Ms White.
Mitcham Community House received funding through Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grants Program to improve its communal areas and establish a habitat for local wildlife, including amenities such as bird and butterfly feeders and possum boxes.
Mitcham Community House is among 14 recipients of Yarra Valley Water’s 2024 Community Grants program round, which funds projects aimed at water conservation, habitat improvement, and community education.
For more information about Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grant program, please visit www.yvw.com.au/community-grants
