WWHS Community Gardens: A Success Story

In 2010, a group of Karen refugees embarked on a life-changing journey, transitioning from their refugee camp in Werribee to the small rural town of Nhill. With the generous support of AMES Migration, Luv-A-Duck and WWHS, this migration marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Karen community, one that would not only shape their lives but also transform the landscape of Nhill itself.

At the heart of this transition was John Millington, the General Manager of Luv-A-Duck at the time. As one of the first to welcome the newcomers, John facilitated crucial introductions and support for the Karen people, helping them navigate essential services such as police stations, schools, banks, hospitals, and shopping centres. The cultural shift was challenging, especially for many of the new arrivals who spoke little to no English. But through ESL programs run by Nhill Learning Centre and the tireless support of community organisations, the Karen community began to settle into their new life in Australia.

Integral to this integration effort was community leader Kaw Doh, who became a central figure in guiding the Karen people through this period of change. Despite the difficulties of living far from home, Kaw Doh balanced his leadership role with ongoing educational pursuits in Melbourne and has since built a solid life for his family.

However, adapting to a new country was not without its challenges. For the older generations, the lack of meaningful daily activities and jobs created a sense of aimlessness. It was here that the power of community came into play, as local leaders and organisations came together to help the Karen community not only settle in but thrive. In 2011, a significant milestone was reached when a collaborative committee was formed, made up of representatives from the town. Together, they launched a project that would become a symbol of integration and growth: the creation of the Community Garden.

What began as a dusty paddock is now a thriving, lush green space, a testament to the dedication of the Karen community and their supporters. From the outset, enthusiastic volunteers such as Tracey Preston, Sonia Colbert, Wendy Sherwell, Sallie Millington, and Heather Dufty gave their time and energy to transform the site into something truly special. This collaboration soon received a major boost, with a $30,000 grant enabling the construction of vital infrastructure such as a pavilion, toilets, and other facilities. The generosity of the Rotary Club of Nhill and the Hindmarsh Shire Council played a crucial role in ensuring the garden’s long-term sustainability, including the installation of an irrigation system to keep it thriving year-round.

But the garden has come to represent more than just a place to grow food. For the Karen community, it is a living symbol of their connection to the land, their culture, and their new home. In their homeland, farming was a cornerstone of life, and the community garden has allowed them to recreate that sense of purpose. The garden now boasts a rich variety of crops, some of which are unique to Karen culture, such as taro, black corn, and sugar cane. It is a place where families gather, share stories, and pass on agricultural knowledge from one generation to the next.

Over the years, the garden has expanded and flourished, thanks in part to the generous contributions of local farmers, businesses, and organisations. More recently, the Karen community received a tractor from the Landcare Network in recognition of their efforts to plant thousands of native trees throughout the region, enhancing the local environment. The garden is now so successful that it no longer requires a formal committee. The Karen community has taken full ownership of the project, continuing to cultivate and expand the space, which is now home to nearly 300 people.

John Millington and Kaw Doh

Today, the Community Garden is not just a place of nourishment, but also a point of connection for the wider Nhill community. It stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when people come together, cross cultural boundaries, and support one another. The garden’s success is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of the Karen community, as well as the compassion and generosity of the people of Nhill.

The story of the Karen community in Nhill is a powerful example of what can happen when refugees are welcomed with open arms and provided the support they need to thrive. Thanks to the leadership of Kaw Doh, the commitment of local organisations and businesses, and the ongoing dedication of the Karen community itself, the future is bright for those who have made Nhill their home. The Karen Community Garden continues to grow, flourish, and serve as a lasting symbol of integration, resilience, and the enduring power of community.

Read more about it in our Autumn edition of Connections or online at wwhs.net.au/publications

Kaw Doh in the crop area

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Ritchie Dodds, Chief Executive Officer on 5391 4222 For email at corporate@wwhs.net.au.