Barunga West Council has formalised a five-year agreement with Bedford’s Kadina-based supported employment group, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and the upkeep of community spaces.
The partnership builds on an existing arrangement and will see Bedford’s grounds maintenance team continue to deliver valuable services across the Upper Yorke Peninsula, including the ongoing management of foreshore pine debris, a constant and challenging task.
The team’s work also extends to parks and reserves, where they provide mowing, spraying, blowing, sweeping and edging services from Bute through to Fisherman Bay.
Barunga West Council’s Interim CEO Paul Simpson said the agreement reflected Council’s dedication to supporting social enterprise and inclusive employment, while ensuring high-quality maintenance of public spaces.
“This partnership with Bedford is a win for our community on many levels. It helps keep our parks, foreshore and reserves clean and inviting, while supporting employment opportunities for people living with disability,” Mr Simpson said.
“We’re proud to partner with a respected organisation like Bedford, and we encourage other organisations to consider engaging their services.”
Bedford CEO Myron Mann welcomed the partnership as a positive step for the region.
“The team at Bedford Kadina is thrilled to be working with the Council to maintain and beautify the local community spaces,” Mr Mann said. “This ongoing partnership will give meaningful employment to people with disability from the local area..
“Bedford values partnerships with organisations such as Barunga West Council who share a commitment to social inclusion, diversity and community wellbeing.”
The joint agreement not only strengthens the connection between Council and Bedford but also aligns with a broader commitment to building an inclusive, healthy and connected community at the Top of the Yorke.
Bedford’s Kadina site provides a range of commercial services, including manufacturing wooden activity kits for Bunnings outlets and delivering grounds maintenance in regional communities. The organisation is actively seeking additional garden maintenance work in the region to support its growing team.