Introducing the GoLlies

The GoLlies are the volunteer gardeners and the horticulturalist who together maintain and develop the public gardens in the Mall.

They come together once a week, united by a common purpose of wanting to "give something back" to this amazing community. From diverse backgrounds, some are extremely knowledgeable gardeners, while others are just starting their horticultural journeys, and what better way to learn. But it is not all work, there is a lot of fun and laughter, not to mention the coffee afterwards, which has been suggested as the real reason they meet.

What we do

The team works on various projects during the year, based on the seasons and village events. Guided by the Garden Charter, the GoLlies sculpt the garden, install a diverse range of plants to provide variety, and create four seasons of colour. This provides an attractive environment with something of interest throughout the whole year, for the enjoyment of visitors and residents alike.

How do we do it

We meet once a week, though that is flexible based on our projects and people's personal time schedule. At the moment it is Thursday mornings, from about 7.30 until 9 or 10. As a group we decide the plan of action, being guided by suggestions within the group and the horticulturalist. There are so many different tasks that people basically choose what they want to do. We find that the different interests of each member and work preferences, means that no one is required to do a task they may not like.

Some say the most important task of the day, and which is never controversial, is the coffee after.