The 2 ½ acre Merri Creek Market Garden is located in Coburg, 2kms north of CERES along the Merri Creek bike path. It is Melbourne’s last surviving inner city market garden, having been farmed continuously by Chinese and Italian gardeners for over 150 years. In 2003 CERES began farming here under the guidance of Joe Garita whose father bought the land in the 1920’s.

The Merri Creek Market Garden employs two farmers, it’s our second certified organic farm, the produce is sold at the CERES Organic Market, CERES Farm Connect and at local farmer’s markets. The garden also supplies produce to the CERES Seven Stars Food Project, the CERES Cafe and occasionally to the wholesale market. Irrigation water is taken from the mains supply and a 100,000 litre underground water tank which collects rainwater from neighbouring town houses.

The Merri Creek Market Garden doubles as a training space. Each year, VET horticulture students complete part of their training and assessment at the Merri Creek garden, gaining valuable hands on work experience.

The Merri Creek Market Gardens has a strong volunteer program, with members of the local community helping to plant and harvest our produce. We also have a corporate volunteer program with staff from companies and organisations joining us each week to escape the office and help us grow more food for our community. You can volunteer at the Merri Creek Market Garden. See the volunteer page for more information.