19 October
Selwyn Primary School students and local residents of Selwyn Heights will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of a new community garden, thanks to the hard work of offenders serving Community Work sentences.
Since the beginning of September 2009, 57 offenders have been making amends for their offending by constructing a new garden at Selwyn School.
The offenders have been preparing the 16 by 9 metre garden area by cutting and nailing timber for the garden's perimeter walls and mixing fertiliser with dirt to fill a range of different garden plots.
Once complete, the garden will be used by the school to teach students about sustainability and food production and will be available for local residents to grow herbs and vegetables.
Selwyn School spokesperson Toni Haehae says she has been thrilled with the new garden and the great efforts put in by the Community Work offenders.
“I’ve been amazed at the energy and passion the Community Work Supervisor Terry Poulter and the offenders are putting into developing our new school garden. They are respectful of the school and share our vision to make a garden that the whole community can use and enjoy together. They can all be very proud of the contributions they’re making to our community.”
Community Probation and Psychological Services Senior Community Work Supervisor Phil Murray says projects like this are a great way for offenders to give something back to the community.
“This just shows how Community Work projects aim to make positive differences within the community. It’s also a great chance for the offenders to give something back, and they get a real sense of satisfaction from knowing they’re supporting a worthwhile cause.”
Community Work sentences require offenders to do unpaid work in the community for non-profit organisations as reparation for their offending. This can also provide offenders with life and social skills and can help them to develop a work ethic and gain employment in the future.
For further information contact the Communications Services Desk: