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.