About Us
Empowering wellbeing, inclusion and recovery through therapeutic gardening
Our Story
From the Earth, With Purpose
Splitters Creek Therapeutic Gardens was founded on the belief that everyone deserves meaningful connection — with nature, with community, and with themselves. Nestled at the historic Homebush Estate in Junortoun, just outside Bendigo, our therapeutic garden is a safe, inclusive space where individuals of all abilities can grow, heal, and thrive.
Led by Leigh Somerville — a qualified teacher, experienced horticulturalist, and disability support educator — we deliver NDIS-supported programs that combine hands-on gardening, sensory experiences, and community connection to promote wellbeing and personal growth.
Meet Leigh
Leigh Somerville is more than a gardener — he’s a passionate educator, mentor, and advocate for inclusion who has spent over four decades working with plants and people. His unique blend of horticultural mastery and human-centred support has made him a recognised leader in therapeutic gardening across regional Victoria.
Leigh began his journey as a qualified nurseryman, eventually founding The City Gardener, where he built deep connections with the land and local community. Over the years, his love for horticulture evolved into a calling to help others grow — not just plants, but confidence, independence, and wellbeing.
He became a registered teacher and spent more than 10 years working in the disability and special education sectors, mentoring youth and delivering hands-on programs for people of all abilities. His work includes roles as:
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Trainer and Assessor in Horticulture and Conservation at Access Skills Training
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Program Facilitator in Therapeutic Gardening and School Programs at Peppergreen Farm
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Youth Mentor at Access Employment
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Program Developer in supported employment and transition-to-work environments
Today, Leigh channels his lifetime of knowledge into Splitters Creek Therapeutic Gardens, where he personally designs and leads every session. His programs are evidence-informed, goal-oriented, and tailored to suit a wide range of needs — from sensory gardening to vocational upskilling.
As a proud member of the Therapeutic Horticulture Australia, Leigh brings both credibility and compassion to every interaction. His approach blends education, therapy, and community to create a truly inclusive space where everyone is welcome — and every person has the potential to grow.
Cultivating Connection, Inclusion, and Growth
At Splitters Creek Therapeutic Gardens, our mission is to create meaningful, measurable outcomes for every participant through accessible, nature-based programs. We work with individuals, NDIS participants, support coordinators, schools, aged care, and mental health providers to tailor experiences that build confidence, encourage independence, and foster social connection.
Whether it’s potting a seedling, designing a sensory garden, or simply walking among native plants, every moment in the garden is an opportunity for healing and inclusion.
Reinvesting in Growth
Every second Sunday, Leigh sells fresh, organic produce grown in the garden at the Old Church on the Hill – Community Growers Market in Bendigo. 100% of proceeds are reinvested into improving the garden and creating new opportunities for participants. It’s just one of the many ways Splitters Creek Therapeutic Gardens stays rooted in the local community.
Explore the healing power of nature at Splitters Creek Therapeutic Gardens. Our garden center offers a serene sanctuary where you can immerse yourself in a variety of plants and flowers. Whether you're seeking solace, inspiration, or simply a breath of fresh air, our garden is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Our team is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that promotes well-being and relaxation.
Whether you're an NDIS participant, a support coordinator, or a community organisation — we're here to help.
