News

July 2, 2025 | IN Together Magazine | BY AVID | 3 min read 

With the hashtag ‘gardentok’ reaching 3.6 billion views and counting on TikTok, it’s clear the traditional hobby is having a full-blown, global resurgence and making its way to a younger generation. For one AVID community, whipping out their shovels and secateurs is nothing new. 

At AVID’s Waterford community, located on the fringes of the picturesque Hunter Valley, residents have been on the gardening train for years. 

With flourishing communal garden beds, a competitive gardening contest and even a visit from outdoor icon Jason Hodges, Waterford has become something of a ‘ground zero’ for residents who have caught the gardening bug.

One of Waterford’s veteran green thumbs is Rebecca Dawber, a teacher and keen recreational gardener who lives in the neighbourhood with her husband and two children.

Since 2017, Rebecca and her family have been cultivating their dream garden with encouragement from their friends and neighbours.

“One of the things I love most about the community is the general pride people have in their gardens and yards. My husband was always the main gardener in our household, and he is a big help in bringing my ideas to life – we’re about to plant a potted magnolia as a feature in honour of my late mother.”

Rebecca is a firm believer that the benefits of gardening are considerable both mentally and physically. 

“I find gardening therapeutic and great exercise, it’s always exciting to see my growing plants bloom,” she said.

In recent months, the Dawbers have been focussed on a front garden revamp.

“Our front garden is being redesigned, but in the backyard, we’ve created a cottage/Mediterranean vibe – not too many flowers but plenty of olives, citrus, bougainvillea, lavender, and hydrangeas.” 

Rebecca said the Gardening Workshop at Waterford presented by Better Homes and Gardens legend Jason Hodges in 2023 was invaluable as her and her husband began their garden redesign. 

“It was a great event, I loved the community spirit that was created.” 

Waterford residents attended the three hour event where Jason shared his gardening tips and tricks and answered resident questions on how they can improve their own yards. 

At the time Jason shared his experience on the impact embracing gardening can have on one’s life. 

“What I always say is that a good garden can complement your life, but a great garden will improve it, so starting your gardening journey off on the right foot is so important.” he said.

With a green space focussed masterplan and many more community events in the pipeline, Waterford’s green thumbs have a lot more to look forward to.

Discover Waterford here https://waterford.staging1.avid.com.au/.