Collingwood Children's Farm

Collingwood Children's Farmis a not-for-profit, inner city working farm situated on theYarra Riverin theMelbournesuburb ofAbbotsford,Australia.It is located within Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung country. It is adjacent to theAbbotsford Convent,and considered part of the larger Abbotsford Heritage Precinct Farmlands (APHF). The APHF supporting the Collingwood Children's Farm are unique in being the oldest continually farmed land in the state of Victoria.European farming commenced in early 1836, with formal land sales occurring in 1838. Farming on the APHF has continued uninterrupted from its agricultural use by Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung to grow crops such as Murnong (Microseris lanceolata). It is also the oldest children's farm in Australia, established in 1979.

Vegetable plots and in the background, sheep.

Nubian goatsare kept at the Farm.

To celebrate the Winter Solstice and as a fundraiser, the farm also holds an annual bonfire event.

The farm has a range of animals includingcows,goats,sheep,horses,ducks,pigs,chickens,geese,peacocksandguinea pigs.Nearly all of the animals at the farm are classified as rare breeds.

The farm began in 1979, when a community committee leased a small plot ofCrown landnext to theYarra River,used by the farm and community gardeners. Funding has come from various sources over the years and now entrance fees and donations make up the bulk of the farm's income. The farm relies on community effort with staff, volunteers and a young farmers' program working to maintain the farm.

TheYarra River Trailpasses through the farm.

See also

• CERES Community Environment Park

External links

• Official website
• The Farm Cafe website
• Feature on Mind Body & Soul