Members of the group that maintains and manages the community gardens near St Andrews church in Featherston are disappointed and “saddened” by the theft of all their equipment shortly after celebrating the gardens’ first anniversary of operation.
On Monday it was discovered that the community garden’s shed had been broken into and all the tools it contained stolen.
A report of the theft – which would’ve happened during the past two weeks – has been filed with police.
“While we thought there is a possibility such a thing could happen, we hoped it wouldn’t; we are saddened by it,” said Hana Makin, one of the group of residents who runs the garden.
“You can’t simply not do nice things for the community in case someone decides to steal it.
“If anyone involved in the theft decides that they don’t actually need 20 plastic garden trowels, among many other things [including wheelbarrows, a new lawnmower, hose, weed eater, gardening gloves, and trestle tables], please return our tools to our shed; no further questions asked.”
However, the theft hasn’t put a dent in the group’s belief in the garden’s importance and the community spirit it fosters.
“This hasn’t changed the fact that we have this beautiful space and great people who keep it going,” Makin said.
“And on a happy note, that community garden celebrated its first birthday last month with a beautiful cake, beautiful Featherston sunshine and beautiful people.”
While there’s hope those complicit in the crime will be tracked done, Makin wanted to remind people that the garden can still be enjoyed and those interested in getting involved are more than welcome.
“We meet on the third Sunday of every month, and the next day is May 19, starting at 2pm,” she said.
Makin said that, as a place where people can learn and improve their gardening knowledge, the gardens are open to all ages and all abilities.
“There are about 10 of us regulars and more who pop in, but we are always looking for more people.”
The wide variety of vegetables grown at the gardens is contributed to the community pantry, the Featherston crop swap [held the third Sunday of every month], or the Featherston Foodbank.
This wasn’t a random theft but organized to steal that much gear would have needed a large van or a car trailer 🤔. I hope when the police get the thieves they do a years community service in the Featherstone area 😀.