Project #1: Footpath veggie wicking beds
The first project of The Hub Foundation has been to build and promote vegetable wicking beds on the footpath in Templeton St, Castlemaine, in partnership with The Hub Plot, a project of Castlemaine Community House. Six boxes have been completed and the public reaction has been overwhelmingly favourable. On any day it is estimated that over 100 people pause to look at the boxes and plants, to read the signage and to ask questions if there is anyone in attendance. The aim is to encourage other organisations to have boxes built on the footpaths near their shops and offices. We are having discussions with the Council in order to make the planning and building process a little easier than it currently is.
Project #2: Climate change mural
The second project was a mural on climate change in Templeton St, Castlemaine. This was created by the children of the Castlemaine North Primary School with the help of Ben Laycock, and other local artists.
Project #3: MASH community solar bulk-buy
The third, and by far the largest project of the Hub Foundation, is MASH, the campaign for More Australian Solar Homes. MASH is a community solar bulk-buy that helps make rooftop solar and storage easy and affordable for households.
MASH aims to deliver three levels of benefits:
- Customer benefit: lower electricity bills and lower prices for high quality systems
- Community benefit: free solar systems for every 100 MASH solar homes installed in each shire
- Environmental benefit: reduction in CO2 emissions
Project #4: Bike sculpture
The fourth project is a bicycle sculpture on the wall of the Hub building. This promotes bikes in an artistic way. It is being developed with the assistance of local sculptor.
Project #5: Ride to Work Brekkies
The Hub Foundation has organised successful Ride to Work Brekkies for the last two years, to coincide with National Ride to Work Day. These events have been much enjoyed by cycling enthusiasts and cycling ‘newbies’ alike and have helped to promote cycling in and around Castlemaine. The Hub Foundation will be holding the third Ride to Work Brekkie again this October in Castlemaine.
