A group of community members in Brisbane’s West End has taken a stand against the decision to close Kurilpa Commons, a self-managed community garden on state-owned land.
A Garden Built for the Community
Kurilpa Commons was established by local residents during the COVID-19 pandemic as a place for people to grow food, support vulnerable neighbours, and hold community events. Over the past few years, it has become a hub for people facing food insecurity, including refugees and those affected by the rising cost of living.
On the morning of 14 February 2025, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) arrived at the site with fencing, warning signs, and police support, preventing public access to the garden. Officials stated they had identified historical fill on the property that may be contaminated and insisted that closing the area was a precautionary safety measure. They confirmed that testing would take place but did not specify the nature or severity of potential contamination.
Safety Concerns Cited, Protesters Disagree
Protesters, however, question the timing and intent of the closure. They argue that the land has been in use since 2020 without any previous warnings about contamination. Some believe the real motive is to clear the space for nearby property development, pointing to an adjacent site where affordable housing has been demolished for new construction.
They maintain that the closure of the commons is an attack on public green space and say they will not leave without a fight. One long-time gardener at the site said the land had been left vacant for decades before the community transformed it into a productive space. Others describe it as more than just a garden—a gathering place fostering connection and resilience.
Protests and Police Presence Continue
Shortly after authorities moved in, dozens of residents gathered at the site, forming a peaceful blockade to stop any further attempts to dismantle the garden.
Activist group Growing Forward has mobilised support, calling on neighbours and allies to defend the space. They claim that the government’s actions—bringing in heavy machinery and issuing a trespass notice—suggest an intention to destroy the garden rather than simply test the soil. By midday, the protest had grown, with around 50 people present, and tensions between authorities and demonstrators remained high.
Despite the strong police presence, the community stood firm, and by late afternoon, the officers and TMR representatives withdrew. Protesters have since set up a round-the-clock presence to prevent any future attempts to remove the garden.
What Happens Next?
The future of Kurilpa Commons remains uncertain. TMR has not yet released a timeline for soil testing or given any assurance that the land will remain accessible after the tests are complete. Protesters are demanding transparency and a commitment from the government to preserve the space.
Local representatives have visited the site to speak with protesters, but no formal resolution has been reached.
Published 14-February-2025