Garden volunteers play a vital role in the maintenance of the Convent’s gardens so they will survive and thrive for generations to come. The Abbotsford Convent’s 6.8 hectares offer a place of retreat in inner Melbourne for our entire community, 365 days a year. The gardens and grounds are an integral part of what makes the Convent so unique.

Conditions of Volunteering

• Physically active and able to meet the demands of the role including walking on slopes, uneven or slippery ground
• Ability to undertake physical tasks involving bending, kneeling, lifting and the use of hand tools
• Have a passion, experience or interest in horticulture, gardening and environmental sustainability.  Prior horticultural knowledge or experience is not necessary but preferred

Interpersonal Skills

• A willingness to respect and value health, wellbeing and safety in the workplace
• Ability to demonstrate and display ACF’s values and behaviours
• Ability to be a team player
• A passion for gardening, the environment and sustainability
• A willingness to work outside

Qualifications and Experience

• A demonstrated interest in gardens maintenance and support
• Knowledge of horticulture, environmental sustainability or similar pursuits
• Knowledge of safety, security and the wellbeing of people in the workplace
• Knowledge of and experience with garden hand tools

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Assist in the care, maintenance and presentation of the Convent’s gardens and open spaces through tasks including but not limited to:·

• Support in maintaining a safe and healthy workplace
• Weeding of selected areas
• Pruning of selected plants
• Sweeping or raking of paths and open ground areas
• Picking up and moving leaves, garden cutting and similar
• Mulching and composting of the gardens as nominated
• Minor soil preparation and tillage
• Plant cultivation

Capability Selection Criteria

• Experience, knowledge or passion in open ground public garden care
• Ability to work within a small committed team
• Ability to take direction
• Knowledge of or commitment to the principles of risk management, equal employment opportunity and workplace health and safety
• Proven physical ability to undertake tasks that may involve bending, lifting and the use of hand tools

Note: To apply for this position, please do so through our website (Abbotsford Convent>Support Us>Volunteers>Gardening Volunteers)