Mayor Christina Holmdahl launched the new facility at the West Tamar Community Precinct on Tuesday, with about 25 new beds opened to keen gardeners in the region.

The launch marks 10 years since the garden was first discussed as a possibility for the precinct, with construction works and landscaping completed late last year.

Council community development officer Kaitlin Roach said the facility was now very much in the hands of local residents. 

“Our staff come and do a little bit of watering but the gardeners are responsible,” Miss Roach said.

“The community very much owns this space - once you become a member you own this space.”

Garden members have the option to grow and harvest from public beds for $20 a year, or purchase an individual bed for $50 a year.

Miss Roach said while many beds were already in use, there was still plenty of veggie real estate left for purchase.

“We've got plenty left to take and if we were to sell them all we would look at expanding the area as well.

“It's not just individuals that can use it, we have community groups, childcare groups who can also come and use it.

“We currently have three child care providers in the Riverside area who come and use this facility as well - it's not just people who stop by after work or retirees, it's open to the whole community.”