The Canberra Organic Growers Society Inc (COGS) is a non-profit organisation started in 1977 with the aim of providing a forum for organic growers to exchange information and encourage the adoption of organic growing methods.
COGS is run by a voluntary committee which is elected annually. For more detailed information about the operation of COGS, download a copy of the Constitution.
Its main objectives are to:
- administer community gardens operated under organic agricultural principles for recreational, educational or rehabilitation purposes and for self-supply of contaminant-free produce;
- assist members in establishing their own organic growing areas;
- encourage and demonstrate the use of organic growing techniques;
- provide a forum for the discussion of matters of interest to organic growers in the ACT and surrounding region;
- foster the use of organic methods in home gardening, horticulture and agriculture;
- facilitate exchange of information and ideas between members and with other organic growers and groups.
The organic movement endeavours to provide an alternative to modern industrial agriculture’s dependence on synthetic fertilisers, fungicides, herbicides and genetic modification. Organic growers use natural means for improving and preserving our soils to produce nutritious, less contaminated food. The soil, enriched with compost, manure, green manure and mulches, and using companion planting, produces healthy plants which resist pest attacks and disease.
The principles and practices of organic gardening are detailed in the Organic Gardening section.
Canberra Organic magazine
Canberra Organic is a quarterly publication which contains articles on organic growing as well as tips specifically for the Canberra region, such as a seasonal planting guide. It also informs members about the speakers for forthcoming meetings and any other activities coming up. Members are encouraged to contribute.
Community Gardens
COGS currently operates twelve community gardens in the Canberra area at Charnwood, Cook, Betty Cornhill (Cotter), Dickson, Erindale, Holder, Kaleen, Kambah, Oaks Estate and O’Connor. The ACT Government has supported the establishment of these gardens and members may obtain a plot to grow organic produce for home consumption. These gardens provide a wonderful opportunity for people to garden with other organic growers, to share their expertise and learn something new at the same time!
At each garden, plot-holders are required to pay a plot levy which covers the cost of water and other running expenses. Find out more on the COGS Community Gardens page.
Interested in Establishing a Community Garden?
COGS has prepared a paper that provides information and links to resources to help those interested in establishing a new community garden in the ACT called Thinking about establishing a community garden in Canberra? Please consider downloading and reading this document before contacting COGS for further information.
How COGS Works
