Our Programs
Supporting NDIS participants, school and community groups through therapeutic gardening
Our Approach
Meaningful Connection Through Nature & Tailored Therapeutic Activities
At Splitters Creek Gardens, we offer small-group and individual programs designed to improve wellbeing, inclusion and recovery through hands-on garden experiences.
Each session is tailored to suit the unique needs, abilities and goals of participants — whether it’s building confidence, gaining life skills, or simply connecting with the earth in a calm and supportive environment.
Our programs are grounded in evidence-based therapeutic gardening techniques and led by qualified educator and horticulturalist Leigh Somerville.
Inclusive Programs
For Diverse Groups
Our inclusive programs cater to a wide range of individuals, including those with disabilities, NDIS participants, schools, aged care residents, and families with young children. Through nature-based activities, we promote mental health, wellbeing, and personal growth, fostering a sense of community connection and skill development.
Skill Development
Personal Growth Focus
At Splitters Creek Therapeutic Gardens, we focus on skill development as a pathway to personal growth. Our programs are designed to enhance abilities, promote self-improvement, and create a welcoming space for all to learn and develop new skills.
Community Connection
Building Relationships
We believe in the power of community connection. By fostering relationships within our garden, we aim to create a supportive environment where individuals can connect, share experiences, and grow together in a space that values inclusivity and personal development.
The Benefits of Therapeutic Gardening
The benefits of our programs reach far beyond the soil. Participants often experience:
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Improved emotional wellbeing and reduced stress
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Enhanced motor skills, mobility, and coordination
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Greater confidence and self-esteem
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Increased social connection and sense of purpose
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Opportunities for vocational exploration and routine
All programs are designed to be inclusive, gentle, and empowering — helping individuals grow in every sense of the word.
Our Activities
Potting and planting
Composting and mulching
Nature crafts (e.g. flower pressing, wreath-making)
Watering, pruning, and harvesting
Sensory garden activities
Weeding, digging and raking
Garden design and layout planning
Garden walks
Flower arranging and plant propagation
Outdoor mindfulness and seasonal tasks
Can I use my NDIS funding?
Yes — many of our participants access our therapeutic gardening programs through their NDIS plan.
Our process is simple:
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An Occupational Therapist (OT) or support coordinator completes our referral form.
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Leigh will personally contact the participant or carer to discuss goals and design a suitable program.
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Sessions are scheduled directly and invoiced in line with NDIS pricing guidelines.
Need support to get started? Contact us and we’ll guide you through it. You can also download our service agreement here.
Who can participate?
We welcome individuals of all ages and abilities who may benefit from nature-based activities. Participants might include:
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People with intellectual or physical disabilities
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Individuals experiencing social isolation, anxiety or depression
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Young people in supported education
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Aged care residents or dementia patients
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Mums and bubs seeking gentle outdoor connection
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School groups or community clients with additional needs
Whether you’re joining for therapeutic reasons or simply want to reconnect with the outdoors, we’re here to make the garden accessible and meaningful for you.
Become a Participant
COMING SOON
We’re excited to announce our upcoming “From the Garden to the Table” initiative — a community kitchen where participants will have the opportunity to cook with what they grow.
These future sessions will include: harvesting seasonal produce, learning basic cooking skills, preparing and sharing meals together, exploring nutrition, teamwork, and independence. It’s another step toward building confidence, community, and life skills through nature.
Want to be notified when it launches?