EON Aboriginal Foundation is expanding its work in the Northern Territory, partnering with three remote Aboriginal communities to create large edible gardens in local schools.
The new gardens in Ltyentye Apurte, Ntaria and Aeryonga are part of EON’s Thriving Communities Program, which teaches young people on Country about horticulture, cooking and nutrition while strengthening connection to land and culture.
The initiative comes as many remote communities continue to face challenges accessing fresh fruit and vegetables, contributing to high rates of preventable illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and other nutrition related diseases.
NITV Radio spoke with EON CEO Kathryn Taylor to talk more about the program and what skills the students are learning, from planting and harvesting to preparing healthy meals, with the kids taking those lessons home to their families and passing the knowledge on.
School leaders say the gardens are helping create healthier habits, strengthen cultural ties and build long term opportunities for young people in community.
