Sustainability Hub
Sustainability Hub
The creation of a Sustainability Hub in Muswellbrook was too good an opportunity for Muscle Creek Landcare to miss.
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The issue
With Muscle Creek Landcare group recently becoming active again and provided with tools and equipment by Muswellbrook Shire Council, it was agreed that a convenient storage area would be needed. The group has been meeting on the first Saturday of every month to help remove weeds and collect litter along the creek. An area close to Muscle Creek would be ideal so that volunteers could meet there and not have to carry equipment too far.
Muswellbrook also lacks a place where sustainably-minded people can meet and share ideas, and even undergo training to develop skills and techniques. There is also a demand for a community garden where community members can grow produce that can be used by local families and businesses.
The solution
For years a disused tennis court had stood idle and vacant in a central location adjacent to Muscle Creek. As Council managed land it was considered that this might be perfect for a “Sustainability Hub”. The creation of a "Sustainability Hub" would have the potential to benefit a wide range of community groups and local residents.
The "Sustainability Hub" needed some TLC, so Muswellbrook Shire Council upgraded the fencing and plumbing, controlled weeds and installed two shipping containers. An opening day with a BBQ and sustainability discussions was organised on Sunday 10th September and attracted 16 locals from a variety of organisations.
The impact
The “Sustainability Hub” now provides the Muscle Creek Landcare group with a place to meet and store their tools and equipment. Furthermore, the wider community has a site to explore sustainability and pursue ideas such as a community garden, an education and training area, a bush foods garden and re-use and upcycling programs.
Other organisations that have expressed interest include Muswellbrook Shire Council, Hunter Valley Aboriginal Council, McCully’s Gap Landcare, SAM U3A, Muswellbrook Girl Guides, Muswellbrook Scouts, Slow Food Hunter Valley, Muswellbrook and District Workers Club and Muswellbrook Mens Shed.
Key facts
- 16 attendees at the opening BBQ
- A dedicated storage container for Landcare tools and equipment
- 10 organisations currently interested and/or involved
- Establishment of a community garden