Make a Terracotta Olla for Your Garden

Work towards a more water sustainable garden by learning the ancient art of Olla water irrigation.

The word olla (pronounced oya) is a Spanish word for a pot (earthenware) that holds water. There is evidence of this method of irrigation dating back 4000 years in several regions including South America, North Africa and China. In the workshop you will learn how to handbuild a pot out of terracotta. The terracotta pot is then fired at a low temperature so that it remains porous and will seep water through its walls slowly once buried in your garden. We will also be making lids for your pots in the workshop that can be a bit more decorative as they will be visible above ground.

You will have the opportunity to make between 1 and 3 ollas depending on how fast you work and how big you choose to make your pot.

The pots will need to be low fired in our kiln and will be available to collect from the centre 2 - 3 weeks after the workshop. We will let you know when they are ready to collect.

Community Centre Contact Details

Torrens Valley Community Centre is open Monday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (closed on Fridays and public holidays). For any enquiries, please contact us on 8389 1711 or email tvcc@ahc.sa.gov.au during opening times.

Extreme and Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings

When an 'Extreme 75+' or Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating is declared for the Mt Lofty Ranges, the Adelaide Hills Council Community Centres will be closed, and all classes and programs will be cancelled without notice. Any monies paid will either be reimbursed or the course will be rescheduled for a later date.

Current fire danger ratings can be checked here: http://www.bom.gov.au/sa/forecasts/fire-danger-ratings.shtml

FAQ

Where can I park?

Parking is easy at any of the 3 areas parking around the community hub. 2 electric charging parks, 1 disabled parking space at the rear and also at the front libraries entrance. Plenty of parking near the Gumeracha sporting oval for any buses or mini vans (refer to map below).

If the event is at night, what do I need to know?

We are in the Adelaide Hills and always encourage a torch or phone with a light in case you can't see. Clothing for cooler weather and an umbrella in winter would be encouraged. Parking at the rear or skatepark side of the community centre has best lighting to safely enter the community centre (refer to map below).

Are there other places I can park?

Yes, during larger events set areas for parking will be indicated.

What facilities are on site?

Toilets (including disabled), baby change table, wide double door entrance into centre, function room, foyer, small meeting room and fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher. The community centre is located within the Community Hub which includes the Gumeracha Town Hall and Gumeracha library.

Is there disabled access?

Yes, the disabled car park at the rear has a ramp down to the main entrance of the community centre. If you use the disabled park located at the library, you will need to be able to use the stairs to get down. Wheelchair access to the community centre is outside (oval side) for access to the main entrance. There is a disabled toilet located both inside the centre and in the outside toilet block.

Is the community centre inclusive?

Yes, everyone is welcome. Our centre is LGBTQI+ friendly, dementia friendly and breastfeeding is welcome.

Can I warm a baby bottle, heat my meal up or make a coffee/tea/hot chocolate?

Yes, there is a kettle, microwave and fridge. Water and and hot drinks are available.