Volunteers' passion for herbs grows

A dedicated group of volunteers has created and continues to maintain one of the biggest and best herb gardens in Queensland and it’s right here in Redcliffe.

The Peninsula Herb Group members care for hundreds of plants in a dedicated section of Redcliffe Botanic Gardens, ranging from varieties found in many home gardens to more exotic plants.

The volunteers meet every Monday from 7.30-10am and are passionate about growing herbs and spreading the word about how amazing the plants are.

Long-time member Brenda Nicholls, 91, is a fountain of knowledge, often asked to speak about herbs at events. She loves being part of the group and sharing what she has learnt over many decades.

“It’s just lovely. God gave us the herbs to use … when you study them, they do everything,” Brenda says.

The members we met have each been with the group for about 20 years on average, enjoying toiling in the garden but also catching up for a cuppa and a chat.

“It’s the nicest way to start your week off,” Lee Harding says.

“It’s a lovely group. It’s a really sociable group.”

At present, there are about a dozen gardeners who help out for two to three hours a week, but the group is looking for more.

Volunteers do not need expert herb knowledge, just a willingness to learn and put their green thumbs to work.

Anyone interested in getting involved can simply turn up on a Monday morning (follow the path off the Redcliffe Botanic Gardens main entrance to the herb garden).

The group is there every week, except when it is raining.

Redcliffe Botanic Gardens is at Henzell St, Redcliffe.