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

The Summit 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 8390 0457 or email thesummit@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 Centre's 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 limited at The Summit Community Centre, carpool where possible. An upper carpark and a smaller lower carpark (with one disabled parking space) are available. There is a loading zone for drop offs and unloading a vehicle (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.

Are there other places I can park?

Yes, along Crescent Drive up to the Norton Summit Primary School. Parking is also located behind Norton Summit CFS. Please take care crossing this road to the community centre. Limited parking is available at The Scenic Hotel (refer to map below).

What facilities are on site?

Toilets (including disabled), baby change table, wide double door entrance into centre, function room, large foyer and patio area, small meeting room and fully equipped kitchen with commercial dishwasher.

Is there disabled access?

Yes, the disabled car park is located in the lower carpark (to the right of the community centre as you drive in). There is an access ramp that leads from the carpark to the entrance of the building. There is a disabled toilet onsite and our reception desk is at an accessible height for wheelchair users.

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.