Perth City Farm: turning contamination into community
- Simmone Sache
- May 8
- 2 min read
When Rosanne tells people she co-founded Perth City Farm, many don’t believe her. “I think it’s because I’m a woman,” she says, “and because I’m short and dark.” People underestimated her but she proved them wrong, helping create one of Perth’s most iconic community spaces.
In the '90s, Rosanne saw a problem: community projects were working in silos. Youth programs, art collectives, environmental groups, each doing good, but separately. She imagined something different. A place where everyone could belong.
“Perth City Farm is about connecting with yourself, finding your path, and discovering how you want to contribute to the world.”
With support from mentor Sandra Kremple and the energy of young changemakers like Clayton Chipper and Neil Bodell, Rosanne helped transform a contaminated industrial site into City Farm in 1994.
She knew how to rally people, especially young ones and it showed in the energy and diversity that flowed through the place.
“If you came on a Monday afternoon, you’d have no idea what went on the rest of the week, the all-night parties, the festivals, the joy that made City Farm come alive.”
Alongside her husband and partner-in-crime Thom Scott, Rosanne laid strong foundations. In 2011, she stepped away to let others lead.
“I didn’t want to be one of those people who can’t let go. If you’re creating something meaningful, you’re creating a legacy.”
But when the farm lost momentum years later, she returned, rolled up her sleeves and rebuilt.
“True leadership is grounded in respect, non-judgment, care, and strong values. You can’t do it alone. It’s about recognising and growing the potential in others. I saw that in Kathleen Burton when she was very young. She’s our CEO and I’m so proud of the leader she’s become.”
That’s the magic of City Farm. It was never just one person’s story, it’s always been a collective one.
Under Rosanne’s guidance, City Farm hosted Perth’s first organic farmers market, setting a trend that’s now part of the city’s cultural fabric. And it’s stayed true to its roots, community, inclusivity, and care for people and planet.
Rosanne is still involved. She runs story time, hosts events, and continues to share her wisdom. But like all great leaders, she’s handed over the reins. City Farm began with Rosanne’s vision. It thrives because people still believe in it.
