URGENT UPDATE: The Paddock Project in Mullumbimby is making headlines for its groundbreaking approach to employment for people with disabilities. Under the leadership of Karen Gross, the initiative has skyrocketed from employing just 2 individuals to an impressive 45 employees in just five years.
Karen Gross, a former special education teacher with 17 years of experience, recognized a critical gap in employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities after her time with the NDIS. In a powerful interview on the Her Brave Story podcast, she highlighted the struggles faced by this community in finding work post-school. Motivated by a vision for inclusivity, she took over The Paddock Project, transforming it into a thriving social enterprise.
Why This Matters NOW: The Paddock Project is not just about jobs; it’s about community and empowerment. “It is about providing an opportunity for local people with disabilities to find meaningful employment,” Karen told The Echo. The project has become a beacon of hope, offering paid employment in various roles, from planting and harvesting to sales and management, all while fostering a sense of belonging.
The enterprise also promotes sustainable practices through its established organic syntropic garden, designed by expert Rodrigo. This innovative farming method emphasizes biodiversity, allowing the project to produce seasonal vegetables with zero food miles. “We can harvest vegetables, fruit, and flowers for you,” Karen said, highlighting their current crops, including cassava, salad, silverbeet, and carrots.
What’s Happening Right NOW: The Paddock Project is open to the public for breakfast and lunch, serving customers from 7am to 3pm on weekdays and 8am to 2pm on Saturdays. They offer a variety of community activities, such as Rainbow Family Yoga on Mondays and a weekly program for children aged 3-5, ensuring engagement with nature and learning about alternative gardening systems.
This vibrant community hub doesn’t just stop at food production. Every week, locals can enjoy fresh fish sales on Thursdays and participate in bi-monthly garage sales. The Paddock Project is also available for private events, including yoga and art classes, in a welcoming environment that is family- and dog-friendly.
Karen emphasizes the importance of accessibility and connection in their mission. “This is a creative community, and people get really excited about getting in touch with nature,” she stated. The Paddock Project is proving that inclusion and sustainability can go hand in hand, inspiring others to rethink employment and community engagement.
What to Watch For: As The Paddock Project continues to grow, there may be increased interest from other communities looking to replicate this successful model. The focus on ethical employment for people with disabilities could spark a wider movement, making this initiative a significant case study in social enterprise.
Stay tuned for more updates on how The Paddock Project is changing lives and reshaping the conversation around employment for individuals with disabilities in Mullumbimby and beyond.
