The visit to Organic Growers of Fairlie met all three learning outcomes. We gained valuable insight into governance and decision-making within a successful member-led organisation, including how responsibilities are shared, challenges are addressed, and continuity is maintained. Seeing the Fairlie site helped us understand how a growers’ space can be thoughtfully integrated alongside play areas, educational spaces and nature trails, balancing food production with wider community use. We also learned about the practical systems they use for day-to-day maintenance, volunteer coordination and long-term planning, which is particularly relevant as our own garden infrastructure continues to expand.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn about key governance frameworks and gain insight about how member-led groups function successfully and navigate difficulties.
• Gain insight to the development of the Organic Growers of Fairlie’s land – particularly how their growers space interacts with their natural play spaces, educational spaces and nature trails etc.
• Deepen understanding of what systems are in play to ensure general and everyday maintenance of the space continues. As we expand our own infrastructure there will be additional need for soft landscaping, fence maintenance, etc.

"Beyond the stated outcomes, the exchange strengthened connections between our volunteers and another established community growing group. It provided reassurance that common challenges around maintenance, engagement and governance are shared across projects. Volunteers came away feeling inspired and motivated, with practical ideas that can be adapted to our own context. The visit also encouraged informal knowledge sharing and relationship-building, which may support future collaboration or peer support between groups."