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Perhaps the assumption that markets are still anchored by predictable economic policies needs to be challenged. For the first time since the fall of the Berlin Wall, political volatility – once background noise – is potentially reshaping investment risk at a structural level.
Growing an interest in gardening can be one of life’s pleasures
Gardening is one of life’s simple pleasures – and it’s never too late to grow your skills. And there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Across Australia, a range of gardening courses and workshops are available to suit all levels of experience.
Rather than list specific courses (which change regularly, and by nature vary from state to state), this article will show you where to look, how to sign up and what to expect. We’ll also explore some great online and teach-yourself options for those who prefer to learn at their own pace or from the comfort of home.
Where to find gardening courses and workshops: Your local council is a great place to start. Many councils run free or low-cost workshops on topics such as water-wise gardening, composting, worm farming and native plant care. These sessions are often held in community halls, libraries or local gardens. Check your council’s website or community newsletter for updates.
Community centres also host gardening workshops from time to time – from introductory classes to hands-on practical sessions. They’re usually run by passionate local gardeners, permaculture experts or environmental educators.
Neighbourhood houses and adult education providers: Organisations such as U3A (University of the Third Age), neighbourhood houses and community colleges regularly offer short courses on gardening and horticulture. For instance, Sydney Community College and Melbourne’s CAE offer subjects such as balcony gardening, edible plants and basic landscaping. These courses are perfect for building knowledge and meeting like-minded people.
Community gardens: Joining a local community garden gives you the chance to learn by doing. Many of these gardens host workshops, volunteer days and seasonal events where you can pick up skills in a supportive, social setting. You can find your nearest community garden through communitygarden.org.au.
Garden centres and nurseries: Some nurseries and large garden retailers host regular workshops or gardening clubs. These sessions are often free, hands-on and geared towards practical topics such as pruning, potting and pest control. Ask in-store or check their websites for event details.
How to sign up and prepare: Once you’ve found a course or workshop that interests you, it’s usually quite straightforward to enrol.
• Online booking: Most workshops will have an online booking form – especially those run by councils or education providers. You may need to pay a small fee.
• Phone or email enquiries: If online booking isn’t available, you can usually call or email the organiser to secure your spot.
• Waitlists: Some popular workshops book out quickly, so it’s worth getting in early or asking to be put on a waitlist if the session is full.
Before attending, make sure to check what you need to bring. Some workshops will provide tools and materials, while others may ask you to bring gloves, secateurs or a hat and water bottle. Dress comfortably and be prepared to get a bit grubby – it’s all part of the fun.
If you prefer to learn at your own pace – or if in-person sessions aren’t accessible – there are excellent online resources to explore:
Gardening Australia: The ABC’s Gardening Australia website is a treasure trove of tips, videos, how-to guides and seasonal advice. It covers everything from planting schedules to soil health and features gardens from across the country. Visit abc.net.au/gardening for inspiration and instruction.
TAFE and online learning platforms: It offers horticulture courses around the country, many of which include online modules. For a more casual experience, websites such as Alison or Udemy have low-cost or free gardening courses covering the basics and beyond.
YouTube and blogs: There are countless Aussie gardeners sharing their knowledge through YouTube channels and personal blogs. Look out for creators who focus on local conditions – especially if you’re in a specific climate zone (like sub-tropical Queensland or temperate Victoria). These resources can be excellent for things like DIY garden builds, composting or creating wildlife-friendly spaces.
Books and magazines: Don’t overlook your local library or bookshop – there’s something special about flicking through gardening books and magazines for advice and ideas. Organic Gardener and Better Homes and Gardens magazines are widely available and offer timely tips for Australian conditions.
A few final tips. First, start with your interests, whether it’s herbs, flowers, veggies or natives, focus on what brings you joy and build from there. Second, take notes and ask questions. Third, practice makes perfect. The best way to learn is to give it a go. Even a few pots on a balcony can become a thriving garden with a bit of love and attention.
Gardening is a journey, not a destination – and the more you learn, the more rewarding it becomes. Whether you’re getting involved in your local community or digging into resources from home, there’s never been a better time to grow your skills.
