Centre for Education and Research in Environmental Strategies
The Centre for Education and Research in Environmental Strategies (commonly known locally as CERES, pronounced "SEER eez") is an award-winning community environment park located in urban Brunswick East, Victoria, Australia. Ceres is the goddess of agriculture in Roman mythology.
| Contents |
Features
CERES' purpose is to "initiate and support environmental sustainability and social equity with an emphasis on cultural richness and community participation."
The 4 hectare park, adjacent to picturesque Merri Creek, includes:
- An animal farm.
- Community gardens.
- A café open 7 days a week.
- Educational walking trails.
- Origin Energy sustainable living demonstrations.
- Multicultural exhibits.
- Facilities for hire.
Many events are held at CERES including a community market every Saturday with a focus on organic foods and hand-made/recycled items.
CERES is a popular site for school excursions and research students with around 60,000 students visiting each year.
History
In 1981, a group of like-minded people dedicated to social awareness, community involvement and environmental issues secured a lease for a 4 hectare plot of neglected land in Brunswick East. Landscaping of the site began and the park was opened in 1982. Since then it has hosted many research projects, exhibitions and events, and seen hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Support
CERES is partially funded through its own programmes, café and events as well as project grants from a variety of Government and private sponsors. While the park is open to the public freely, donations and memberships are appreciated. A popular volunteer program is also available.