Our Story And Mission

Growing more than food—we're cultivating a resilient community rooted in ecological care and honoring the wisdom of our elders.

Our Begining

Banma Market Garden was born from a deep-rooted desire to feed people and care for the land. At the age of 13, Patrick felt a calling—to help address hunger and nourish communities, inspired by the knowledge that so many children around the world face poverty and food insecurity. This early sense of purpose was shaped by the example of his mother, who spent her life building a social enterprise to support people through the ecological challenges of our time.

When she faced serious setbacks and homelessness, he left college at 17 to help her rebuild. Together, they found stability, and he began working alongside gardeners, growers, and craftspeople—gaining skills in horticulture, landscaping, construction, and vegetable production. But through it all, his passion for food, people, and community never faded.

The Legacy of "Banma"

In 2024, Banma Market Garden took root on a piece of land generously offered by Sarah Woodhouse—a beloved elder of the local community who had spent decades organising plays, running a charity for young families, and uplifting others through education and kindness. Her grandchildren called her "Banma," a heartfelt mispronunciation of "Grandma." The name stuck, and it now lives on in the heart of our project.

Sarah passed away in 2024 at the age of 89, having lived a rich life of service. Naming the garden after her is both a tribute to her generosity and a broader honouring of all matriarchal elders who guide and nurture younger generations.

Our Values

Ecological Care: We grow food using methods that nurture soil health and biodiversity.

Community Nourishment: We donate produce to local organizations and create spaces for connection.

Intergenerational Wisdom: We honor the knowledge of our elders while building skills for the future.

Resilience: We're developing systems that can adapt and thrive through changing times.

Our Purpose

Banma Market Garden continues Sarah's legacy by growing food ecologically, donating produce to local organisations, and running nature-based workshops that educate and inspire. We are here to grow more than food—we're here to grow connection, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose in a world that needs it more than ever.

— Patrick Beamish-Peters
Founder, Banma Market Garden

“In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways—and they’re still beautiful.”

— Alice Walker