Our Story
Our two acre organic market garden is on Wurundjeri Country. The banks of the Merri Creek have always been used as a site for food production and stock management. It is also the site of Melbourne’s last surviving inner city market garden, having been farmed continuously by Chinese and Italian gardeners for over 150 years.
In 2003 CERES began farming here under the guidance of Joe Garita, whose father bought the land in 1945. Previously known as the Merri Creek Market Garden, Joe's Market Garden is our second certified organic farm growing organic herbs and vegetables.
It is named after Joe Garita. Family and friends remember Joe as a hardworking individual who was kind to everyone he encountered. His memory lives on in Joe’s Garden, which continues to flourish even after his passing. Joe’s wife, Jean Garita, believes that Joe would be proud of the work that continues in Joe’s Garden, as the garden continues to grow food and foster relationships, which were two of the most important aspects of Joe’s life.
Irrigation water is taken from the mains supply and a 100,000 litre underground water tank collects rainwater from neighbouring town houses. All produce grown is sold through our CERES Fair Food enterprise or our Farm Gate each Saturday morning between 9-1.
We are assisted by volunteers on a Wednesday and Fridays, if you are interested in volunteering with us come by between 9:30-1 or email [email protected]
We also have a corporate volunteer program with staff from different organisations joining us each week to escape the office, get their hands dirty and help us grow food for our community. To find out more about joining our corporate volunteer program please email [email protected]
