About

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 organic growing methods. COGS is run by a voluntary committee which is elected annually. For more detailed information about the operation of COGS click here to 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.

Monthly Meetings

Meetings of members are held at the Majura Community Centre, Rosevear Place, Dickson at 7.30 pm on the fourth Tuesday of the month (except in December and January). Each month a different speaker discusses organic growing or related issues, for example:

  • backyard self-sufficiency; 
  • worms; 
  • efficient watering.

After each talk a light supper is available. At all meetings members may also borrow two items from the COGS library.

Canberra Organic

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 eleven community gardens in the Canberra area at Mitchell (Northside Garden), O’Connor, Charnwood, Cook, Holder, Curtin (Cotter Garden), Erindale, Kambah, Theodore, Oaks Estate and Queanbeyan. The ACT Government and Queanbeyan City Council have 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.

Internet

COGS has an extensive web site devoted to organic growing. The site contains COGS information papers on organic growing, a page for children, links to related organisations and information sources, a picture gallery, regional information and much more.

Other Activities 

From time to time COGS organises other activities for its members.