Permaculture Aid & Development Workshop
John McKenzie and John Champagne delivered a fantastic Permaculture Aid Course a couple of weekends ago preparing permies for the difficult challenges of working abroad on aid and development projects. John McKenzies wealth of experience of 40 years in aid and permaculture meant that a huge amount of material was covered in the two days bringing the two passions of his life together. John Champagne’s experience working abroad in Africa and Asia gave the workshop further insight. This was a deep and meaningful educational workshop and I would highly recommend the next one if you are even vaguely thinking of doing projects abroad or in Australia. It wasn’t all hard work though we still managed to get in some fun around the pool with pizzas and sunshine. A strongly bonded group of committed project workers will be really prepared in their future endeavors which will carry great benefits to them and their projects and communities.
Welding for Women Workshop – masks and sparks
It looked more like a scene from star wars then a farm skills sustainability workshop with heavy black curtain surrounds; everyone in masks and plenty of sparks and burning smoke. There was much excitement in the air too with 12 or so women not just welding but competently using the oxy cutting through metal; nibbling and other metal work skills previously regarded as a men’s activity. Peter Salvisberg who ran the workshop did a tremendous job keeping everyone safe with not one burn!. The women loved it quickly gained confidence in their ability to master metal. They couldn’t get enough and have requested a follow up workshop where they will make something to take home and repair broken items.
Introduction to Permaculture
We had a fabulous weekend at Bandusia Country Retreat recently learning about soils, composting, worm farming; permaculture plants, no-dig gardening; animal systems and organic gardening.
