Gather Together 2026: Stories from the Garden
Description
Pull up a chair, settle in. Feel the welcome embrace of community wrap warmly around us all as we share, connect and celebrate the things bring us together.
On a winter’s night, gather in the cosy glow of Mozart Hall for an evening that honours how gardens grow and how we grow with them. We invite you into the world of Warrnambool Community Garden through stories of soil, seasons, and the people who’ve weathered it all.
A lively panel featuring three generations of gardeners - a founding member, a dedicated volunteer, and a fresh face - will share insights into the garden’s history, its role in community life, and the transformations it’s fostered over nearly 20 years of shared love and labour. Expect honest reflections, laughter, and a few surprises from behind the compost heap.
After a break for hearty garden-made soup, local bread, and mulled wine, the evening opens to a chorus of voices. Poets, storytellers, and songwriters are called to share their own memories and musings on growth, nature, and connection. Whether you’re a green thumb or just love a good story, come warm your heart and imagination with us.
Please note that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, however these purchases on the night are welcomed, with proceeds directly supporting Warrnambool Community Garden.
Panel
Geoff Rollinson
Geoff Rollinson might describe his journey as starting in the country, being tarred with the city brush then following a career path back to the bush 37 years ago. A founding member of the Warrnambool Community Garden, he was at the very first meeting in 2005 and has since contributed in almost every committee role over the decades. Geoff works as a Senior Landcare Facilitator with the Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Network and is actively involved in his community through volunteering with the Purnim Hall Committee and Brophy Family and Youth Services. At the centre of it all is his growing family, including his partner Elly, three sons, and four grandchildren.
Tina Reilly
Tina Reilly arrived in Warrnambool in 2010, a stranger to the place and its people. Over time, the Warrnambool Community Garden became her anchor, where friendships took root, seasons turned, and a sense of belonging quietly grew. A teacher and mother of three young children, she moves between tending soil and raising her family, noticing the small, telling moments in both. Through her words, she shares gentle reflections on people, growth, and the intertwined stories of the community garden and those who gather there.
Katrina Carey
Katrina Carey likes to be part of a community. A frequent visitor to the garden, she made her membership official this year. Originally from Brisbane, Katrina and her family moved to Warrnambool five years ago to be near the ocean and to raise her kids in a place full of wild nature. She is a primary school teacher and has spent time working in community development. Katrina has spent time living in East Timor working with communities and published a kid’s picture book with Timorese children. She edits Kelp Magazine, a nature-based publication for children, and aspires to write more children's books. Katrina would also like to learn to surf better than she currently can!
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
