Pioneer Garden, an initiative of Ravenswood Neighbourhood House and Community Housing Ltd, was cultivated by passionate community volunteer Peter Richards with the help of residents who dreamt of a space where vegetables and friendship would grow.

But each time the garden beds have come close to harvest, roaming cattle from a nearby farm have trampled the site and helped themselves to the produce.

‘‘I’m devastated,’’ Mr Richards said.

‘‘Every time we get ahead we get kicked in the arse.

‘‘It’s becoming harder and harder to get volunteers and we’re starting to lose a lot of people.’’

The black angus cattle have caused problems at Ravenswood for several years by continually escaping through fences damaged by trail bike riders.

Last year, the cows caused about $15,000 damage to the Ravenswood Primary School oval and Mr Richards said community members regularly reported cow-inflicted damage to their cars.

Mr Richards said something had to be done before it became a safety issue.

‘‘I’m worried about the local kids,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s just not on, something has to give.’’

The farmer could not be reached for comment on Thursday.