Support is growing for a community garden and food waste recycling space on the vacant block in front of Woolworths Central in Wynnum.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP was joined by Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans MP on Monday (August 19) to tour the proposed site on Charlotte Street.

“This fantastic idea is being headed up by Wynnum Business General Manager David Bateson and Coffee Club Wynnum owner Kathryn Shepherd,” Mr Vasta said.

“Their proposal is to convert the Wynnum Central Park into a community garden, establish food waste recycling for food outlets, and relocate a hot composting machine to the site which is currently sitting unused.”

Mr Vasta said the project aimed to reduce food waste going to landfill, activate an unused space in the centre of town and position Wynnum at the forefront of ‘reduce reuse recycle’ initiatives nationally.

“I’m looking forward to supporting this project going forward and if we can get every level of government on board it will be a fantastic community initiative,” Mr Vasta said.

“The more we can do to reduce our food waste and encourage sustainable activity, the better off our local environment will be.”

Member for Bonner Ross Vasta has praised the initiative of Wynnum locals to establish a community garden in the green space near the Woolworths shopping centre on Florence Street.

Mr Vasta said he had been approached by local business owners, Charlene Lestley from Crystal Rose Gallery and Cherie Attias from Reel Cutz for Men, with their idea for the community garden.

“I’m proud to put my name to this petition and throw my full support behind a community garden at Wynnum Central,” Mr Vasta said.

The petition has gathered 150 signatures in less than two weeks.

Mrs Lestley said she, her husband Peter and son Barry were overwhelmed by the support from Wynnum locals.

“I think a community garden would be a great way to beautify the area and bring people together,” Mrs Lestley said.

Mrs Attias said the community garden was part of the new Wynnum Merchant Movement founded by herself and Mrs Lestley.

“This garden will give people purpose and draw people back to the area. Many of my clients would like a space where they can give back to the community along with others,” Mrs Attias said.

To sign the petition, visit Crystal Rose Gallery on Edith St, Wynnum.