A new farmers’ market at Wonga Park

The first Wonga Park Farmers’ Market will be held on Saturday April 22nd, 9am-1pm. It will then take place monthly on the 4th Saturday of each month. It will be at Wonga Park Primary School (41 Dudley Road, Wonga Park) and is effectively being run by the school. If you go to the market, you can also visit the school’s Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden. For further information, contact Jenny Kelly by phone (0410 526867) or email. Thanks for the info, Jenny and Kim.

More news about the organic provedore (aka shop) at Monsalvat

In last week’s newsletter, I talked about a new pop-up food and seedling shop at Monsalvat. Well, it now has a name (The Vat) and a Facebook page.

To celebrate such developments, The VAT is offering 20% off all KABUU seedlings and microgreens this upcoming weekend (Friday, 31st March to Sunday, 2nd April, 10am-4pm). You can also use their soil blockers for free. And there will be three workshops, two of them free:

• Seed-raising for beginners (free): Saturday 1st April, 11am-midday, by Richard Lee from KABUU.
• How to grow microgreens basics (free): Saturday 1st April, 1.30-2.30pm, by Richard Lee from KABUU.
• How to grow microgreens successfully year round ($40): Sunday, 2nd April, 1.30–2.30pm, by Farmer Ted from KABUU.

Leaf, Root & Fruit Gardening Services, from Hawthorn East

Leaf, Root & Fruit Gardening Services have been added to our list of people who build planter boxes, wicking beds or raised garden beds. Contact Duncan Cotting by phone (0423 003764) or email. Incidently, they have a really speccy website. Welcome Duncan!

I came across Leaf, Root & Fruit because, as discussed later, Duncan is running two edible gardening workshops in the near future in Box Hill, one on 1st April and the other on 8th April.

Want to see a compost house as art?

Newsletter reader and artist Felicity Gordon featured in the Leader this week for her compost house made up of 61 plants, 50 of them edible. The house is part of a new exhibition in Ivanhoe on water and climate change.

Mac’s tip of the week

“From the weather forecasts, it looks like, from tomorrow (Thursday), the late Summer will truly be over and the Autumn will at last begin. It is now time to replenish your soil with composts and manures if needed in readiness for your autumn plantings. Also, keep an eye on your automatic irrigation if you have it as you will soon be able to substantially reduce, or even stop, your watering. Until next time, remember: whatever your partner thinks, dirty hands are good hands.”

Click here to view all of Mac’s tips.

What to plant in April (click here for more details)

Here is a list:

Beetroot Broad beans Broccoli Brussel sprouts Cabbage

Carrot Cauliflower Fennel Garlic Kale

Lettuce Mizuna Mustard greens Pak choy Peas

Radish Rocket Shallot Silverbeet Spinach

 
This is a pretty similar list to that of March, with the notable additions of garlic and peas.

The following 2016 articles by Helen Simpson are relevant:

• Autumn plantings (also read Leaf, Root & Fruit’s article).
• Brassicas (also read SGA’s article).
• Garlic (also read Maria Ciavarella’s article).

Everything you ever wanted to know about wicking beds

Earlier this week, Pam Jenkins gave a presentation on wicking beds. I have added her notes to our wicking bed page.

Eucalypt Community Garden at Wollert

As envisaged in the 8th March newsletter, work has now begun on the development of the Eucalypt Community Garden at Wollert. They have built the first lot of beds, with a plan to complete a herbarium, an orchard and (maybe) a restored well. The garden beds will be shared beds and open to members of The Friends of Eucalypt Community Association. They are being assisted by a $5,000 grant from Whittlesea Council to consult with the community to plan and develop the garden and a $1,000 grant from Stockland. Simon Marshall Horticulture and Design are helping them. Thanks for the info, Alicia.

Vegetarian Victoria

Vegetarian Victoria promotes the benefits of vegetarianism and provides support and information to vegetarians, vegans and the general community. They also organise social events and some workshops.

Joke of the week

First things first – Jenny Shaw has submitted an improvement to last week’s joke: Why can’t you tell secrets in a community garden? Because the sweetcorn has ears, the potatoes have eyes, and the beans stalk. In passing, note the all-important Oxford comma. Thanks, Jenny!

This week’s joke has been submitted by Sabi Buehler: What do Wikileaks staff have with their Christmas turkey? An anonymous sauce. Thanks, Sabi!

Someone said that they found the jokes too lowbrow. So, for my highbrow friend, I am thinking about introducing a ‘proverb of the month’. Here is the first: Fine words butter no parsnips. Meaning: nothing is achieved by empty words or flattery (cf. buttering someone up). For a discussion, see The Phrase Finder.

Carved food as art

I’ve talked about the amazing Colossal website before. Well, have a look at their recent article on carved food as art.

New events – Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival runs from Friday, 31st March to Sunday, 9th April. The events listed below are some of those which are both in North East Melbourne and which cost less than $70.

Mallow (khabizat) workshop

What: Learn all about the edible weed, mallow. Monique will talk about identification, ecological use, medicinal uses and some culinary uses of Mallow. After this, Amne, will share her culinary and cultural knowledge on all things mallow (khabizat in Arabic). She will show you how to pick khabizat and how to use it; this will include how to prepare sautéed khabizat with a simple pilaf and how to make zatar bread to go with it.
When: Saturday, 1st April, 10.30am-midday.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: $15 (suggested donation).
Enquiries / Bookings: Monique by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The flowing bowl

What: A beautiful bowl of punch creates the mood for any celebration. Enoteca Sileno welcomes Shaun Byrne, cocktail consultant and co-founder of Maidenii vermouth, to show you how it’s done. Includes a glass of each of the punches demonstrated, a tasting of a wide selection of spirits, liqueurs and amaro by Italian brands Varnelli, Beppi Tosolini, Lucrezio R. and Rossa Sicily to help you plan your own creations, plus a selection of Italian antipasti. Held under the vines in their courtyard, this event will be part cocktail class, part product sampling, but mostly just pure enjoyment of excellent punch cocktails.
When: Saturday, 1st April, 5-8pm.
Where: Enoteca Sileno, Carlton North.
Cost: $65.
Enquiries: Enoteca Sileno by phone (9389 7009).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Smorgasburb by Sand Hill Road

What: Seven of Melbourne’s favourite suburban locals will serve up their signature pub offerings: kombu cured cobia with yuzu kosho and cucumber (Garden State Hotel); bossan pork belly, oyster mayo and kimchi taco (Terminus Hotel); Brazilian spiced sticky pork ribs with Westmont pickles (Richmond Club Hotel); sardine katsu sandwich on brioche (Prahran Hotel); toast’d toasties (Bridge Hotel); and classic Italian piadina (The Posty).
When: Sunday, 2nd April, midday-7pm.
Where: Bridge Hotel, Richmond.
Cost: $29 (includes $30 of food vouchers).
Enquiries: Sand Hill Road by phone (9428 5333).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Celebrating festivals of Spain

What: Explore the top five Spanish festivals with an exciting course to represent each one. Some may be familiar to you, others unknown. Añada’s chefs will start the journey in Sevilla with Feria de Abril, the April fair, before moving to Bunol, a little town near Valencia to celebrate La Tomatina, the tomato festival. After that, one of the lesser-known celebrations, La Fiesta de la Rosa del Azafrán, the saffron rose festival, celebrated in the Castilla La Mancha region. And what would be a celebration of Spanish festivals without the world-famous San Fermines, the running of the bulls in Pamploma? You will finish your journey in Spain’s third largest city (after Madrid and Barcelona) – Valencia – celebrating Las Fallas, the fire festival.
When: Wednesday, 5th April, 6-11pm.
Where: Añada, Fitzroy.
Cost: $65 (includes food).
Enquiries: Añada by phone (9415 6101).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Build your own coffee blend

What: Uncover the secrets of creating the perfect coffee blend in the roasting factory. Under the expert gaze of Knight Mattingly Coffee Roasters roasting team, step through different flavour profiles of single origin beans, crafting a balanced combination that suits your tastes. Leave with a kilo of your own personalised coffee blend and its recipe.
When: Thursday, 6th April, 2-5pm.
Where: Knight Mattingly Coffee Roasters, Coburg North.
Cost: $53.
Enquiries: Knight Mattingly Coffee Roasters by phone (9383 2100).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Orange is the new Blanc

What: Tyler Preston and Adam Trengrove will presenting a four-course ethical Asian barbecue, cooked and served in the beer garden of Dr Morse Bar & Eatery, with an option of matched natural wines, celebrating all things biodynamic, oxidative and artisan. Ticket includes four courses of asian inspired barbecued delights.
When: Thursday, 6th April, 5-9pm.
Where: Dr Morse Bar & Eatery, Abbotsford.
Cost: $38.
Enquiries: Dr Morse Bar & Eatery by phone (9416 1005).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Pizzini pop-up barrel room

What: Have you ever wanted to taste nebbiolo from the barrel? Wondered what Vin Santo is? Heard of the grape variety canaiolo? Join the Pizzini family to taste a selection of their wines, some straight from barrel, others that have been ageing in the cellar, and some new vintages. The event will feature a prosciutto bar where guests will be able to enjoy a plate of freshly sliced prosciutto.
When: Friday, 7th April, 4pm-midnight; also, Saturday, 8th April and Sunday, 9th April, both midday-midnight.
Where: Project 49, Collingwood.
Cost: $28 (includes wine tasting and prosciutto).
Enquiries: Pizzini Wines by phone (5729 8278).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Asian cuisine workshops

What: Six cooking demonstrations over the weekend that collectively take a culinary journey around Asia using produce from Box Hill Central Fresh Food Market. The Centre’s own chefs will be joined by some well-known celebrity chefs to present a series of cooking demonstrations exploring the exotic, and eclectic, flavours of Asia. You will learn key techniques and how to use interesting ingredients at home. You will also be able to taste the dishes demonstrated – and take home a gift bag full of product from Box Hill Central’s local retailers.
When: Dumplings – Saturday, 8th April, 10.30-11.15am.
Celebrity chefs – Saturday, 8th April, midday-12.45pm.
Japanese cuisine – Saturday, 8th April, 1.30pm-2.15pm.
Sushi – Sunday, 9th April, 10.30-11.15am.
Vegan cuisine – Sunday, 9th April, midday-12.45pm.
Taiwanese cuisine – Sunday, 9th April, 1.30pm-2.15pm.
Where: Box Hill Central.
Cost: $33 per demonstration.
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

South East Asia Festival

What: An annual celebration, the ASEAN Festival unites communities from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam by sharing their culinary and cultural heritage through food, music and dance. The festival will feature community projects involving ASEAN communities around Victoria, as well as authentic foods from Melbourne restaurants, traditional music contrasting with contemporary performances from ASEAN students currently studying in Melbourne, dance, games, social clubs and kids’ activities.
When: Saturday, 8th April and Sunday, 9th April, both 11am-5pm.
Where: Argyle Square, Carlton.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Coffee workshop

What: Hosted by The Craft and Co’s in-house master coffee roaster, you will develop your knowledge and palate, gaining an appreciation of aromas, flavours and tastes. Understand the coffee making process, finishing with our house-made ricotta and pistachio cannoli.
When: Sunday, 9th April, 10am-midday.
Where: The Craft and Co, Collingwood.
Cost: $33.
Enquiries: The Craft and Co by phone (9417 4755).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Food photography masterclass

What: Together with Hunter & Barrel, Canon Australia and food stylist Kim Jane, Ringwood Camera House invite you to a food photography workshop where they will show you how to style, light and photograph food. Bring your mirrorless or DSLR camera.
When: Sunday, 9th April, 10am-midday and again at 2-4pm.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Ringwood Camera House by phone (9725 3816).
Bookings / Further information: Eventbrite.

Harveast

What: Harveast will be a one-day food and wine event showcasing chefs, producers and suppliers from the local region. Activities will include: a cellar door showcasing boutique wineries; a producers’ market offering the district’s freshest produce; chef masterclasses; and live entertainment. Trading time for stallholders and masterclasses will be from 10am-5pm. Live entertainment will kick-off from late afternoon into the evening.
When: Sunday, 9th April, 10am-9pm.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Eastland Shopping Centre by phone (9823 6100).
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Chef masterclass with Dan Wilson (Huxtaburger)

What: Get up-close and personal with Dan Wilson (Huxtaburger).
When: Sunday, 9th April, 11-11.45am.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Eastland Shopping Centre by phone (9823 6100).
Bookings / Further information: Eventbrite.

Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience

What: What you will learn: the process of bean to bar chocolate making. Where does chocolate come from? How is it made?; Define various flavour characteristics in single origin chocolates sourced from around the world; and see and smell fresh cacao pods. Take a chocolate tasting flight as we travel through 12 different countries. Learn where chocolate comes from and the bean to bar process of making chocolate. Let them take you through the tropical regions of Madagascar, Venezuela, Vietnam, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Mexico, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Grenada, and even Australia as you taste the single origin chocolates from these regions.
When: Sunday, 9th April at 11-11.45am, midday-12.45pm, 1-1.45pm, 2-2.45pm, 3.3.45pm and 4-4.45pm.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: $10.
Enquiries: Eastland Shopping Centre by phone (9823 6100).
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

An hour with Stephanie Alexander

What: Watch as respected cookbook author and real food advocate, Stephanie Alexander goes ‘in conversation with food writer, Richard Cornish to reflect on her career; sharing
stories from her life as a chef, author and founder of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation. During the session, Stephanie will bring to life recipes from The Cook’s Companion using fresh local bounty. The session concludes with a Q&A at 1pm and book signing at 2pm.
When: Sunday, 9th April, midday-1pm.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Eastland Shopping Centre by phone (9823 6100).
Bookings / Further information: Eventbrite.

Chef masterclass with Frank Camora (MoVida, Paco’s Tacos)

What: Get up-close and personal with Frank Camora (MoVida and Paco’s Tacos).
When: Sunday, 9th April, 12.30-13.15pm.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Eastland Shopping Centre by phone (9823 6100).
Bookings / Further information: Eventbrite.

Beer workshop

What: Take your passion for craft beers to another level with The Craft and Co’s specialists, as they discuss the beer making process. Includes a tour of their micro-brewery, tastings of their house-brewed beers and their specialty charcuterie and cheeses matched to beer.
When: Sunday, 9th April, 12.30-2.30pm.
Where: The Craft and Co, Collingwood.
Cost: $33.
Enquiries: The Craft and Co by phone (9417 4755).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

Chef masterclass with Johnny Di Francesco (400 Gradi, Gradi East)

What: Get up-close and personal with Johnny Di Francesco (400 Gradi).
When: Sunday, 9th April, 2-2.45pm.
Where: Eastland Shopping Centre, Ringwood.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Eastland Shopping Centre by phone (9823 6100).
Bookings / Further information: Eventbrite.

Prosciutto workshop

What: Join local artisan producers, including The Craft and Co’s own chef Dom Marzano, as they share their knowledge on everything from selecting your pig to processing and curing. Then enjoy the different styles of prosciutto with wines from their winery in Bangholme.
When: Sunday, 9th April, 3-5pm.
Where: The Craft and Co, Collingwood.
Cost: $33.
Enquiries: The Craft and Co by phone (9417 4755).
Bookings / Further information: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival website.

New events – other

Edible gardening workshop

What: This workshop will focus on edible gardening in small spaces (courtyards, balconies, and backyards). Subjects to be covered include: site analysis – working out where in the garden is best to grow plants; vertical spaces and vertical gardens; raised garden beds – materials, design and wicking beds; soil and how to improve it; container gardening – common pitfalls for new gardeners; seeds vs seedlings and veggie patch layout; variety selection – heirloom vs hybrid vs GMO; organic fertilising regimes; mulch; and watering. Presented by Duncan Cocking, from Leaf, Root & Fruit Gardening Services. Duncan has a
science degree, majoring in Botany, and a Permaculture Design Certificate.
When: Saturday, 1st April, 11am-12.30pm.
Where: Box Hill Mall.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Daniel Vincent Smith, Whitehorse Council by phone (9262 6269) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

How to grow veggies the Italian way!

What: What you will learn: what does it mean to grow Italian? What’s it like gardening in Italy? how to set up your veggie patch at home; and how to best address problems in your veggie patch; such as pests and disease. What you will get: open forum to ask your gardening questions; guided tour of the farm; and packet of saved seeds. Optional extra ($40): lunch.
When: Sunday, 2nd April, and Sunday, 7th May, both 10am-1pm.
Where: The Farm Yarra Valley, Warrandyte South.
Cost: $65.

Edendale young farmers

What: A small group of children, 9- to 12-years-old, will have the opportunity to help Edendale’s farmers with the morning animal chores and experience what it is like to be a farmer. They will get up close to many of the farm animals and help in the daily care and feeding of these animals. The children will join in with a range of activities, including: letting out and feeding the poultry, collecting eggs and cleaning waterers; feeding the baby chicks; goat milking demonstration and feeding the goats; pony poo pickup and feeding the worm farms; hay feeding sheep, lambs, and Taffy the Jersey calf; and handling the guinea pigs and cleaning their cages. The children will need to come dressed in suitable clothing including long pants and solid footwear such as an old pair of joggers. A hat, raincoat, sunscreen and water bottle will also be required. A light morning tea will be provided. The children should understand that they are not here to play with the animals but are participating in important farm chores.
When: Thursday, 6th April, 9am-midday.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $30.
Enquiries: Edendale by phone (9433 3711) or email.
Bookings / Further information: Edendale website.

Passata demonstration with Jean Garita

What: Jean Garita, matriarch of Joe’s Market Garden, will talk about how to make passata the traditional way of the Garita family.
When: Saturday, 8th April, 10-11.30am.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: donation.
Enquiries / Bookings: Joe’s Market Garden by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Wild food and medicine walk

What: Join The Perma Pixie on an outdoor adventure that will focus on identifying edible and medicinal weeds and wild food. Discover the properties and actions these plants have to nourish and heal, and discuss recipes and ways to prepare these plants for palatability and practicality.
When: Saturday, 8th April, 10am-midday.
Where: Merri Creek Trail, Northcote.
Cost: $20.
Enquiries: Taj Scicluna by phone (0450 375528) or email.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Edible gardening workshop

What: This workshop, which is the second in the series, will focus on edible gardening in small spaces (courtyards, balconies, and backyards). Subjects to be covered include: seasonality, a basic discussion around what to plant and when; planting and harvesting for year-round abundance; bugs – their importance to gardens and how to help to get the right balance; pest control; reducing waste in the garden; perennial food crop systems and small backyard orchards; and edible forest gardening. Presented by Duncan Cocking, from Leaf, Root & Fruit Gardening Services. Duncan has a science degree, majoring in Botany, and a Permaculture Design Certificate.
When: Saturday, 8th April, 11am-12.30pm.
Where: Box Hill Mall.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Daniel Vincent Smith, Whitehorse Council by phone (9262 6269) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Fundamentals of beekeeping (two-day)

What: This course is designed to provide new beekeepers with both the practical skills and the background knowledge to start beekeeping with confidence. The program encompasses both Langstroth and Flow hives and is suitable for all styles of beekeeping. No previous experience is required. The course runs over a full weekend with hive opening exercises each day. All sessions are highly interactive and include hands-on skill building. The course fee is $190. In addition, participants have to become members of The Beekeepers Club which, at a prorated cost, is around $17. Included in the course fee are a comprehensive handbook and a textbook (The Australian Beekeepers Manual). Lunches and light refreshments will be provided.
When: Saturday, 8th April and Sunday, 9th April, both 9.30am-4pm.
Where: Brunswick.
Cost: $207.
Enquiries: The Beekeepers Club by phone (0481 392798) or email.
Bookings / Further information: The Beekeepers Club website.

Weeds, plants and people

What: Why do some people spend so much effort trying to eradicate plants in certain circumstances, while other people nurture those very same species for food, medicine, or simple enjoyment of their beauty? Could there be a better way for us to live alongside the many wild plants we encounter in our gardens, farms and landscapes, than to wage war on them? A talk on the history of common plants by Dr John Dwyer.
When: Tuesday, 11th April, 7.30-8.30pm.
Where: University of Melbourne, Burnley Campus.
Cost: $15.
Enquiries: Friends of Burnley Gardens by phone (9035 6815) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Nettles with Monique Eve Miller

What: Nettles are an incredible plant, and you will walk away from this workshop with a new perspective on this plant. Monique will talk about ecological uses, identification, medicine uses and culinary uses of nettles. This workshop will include a tasting of prepared nettles. Take home some nettles and an information sheet about this plant.
When: Saturday, 29th April, 10.30am-midday.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: $20.
Enquiries / Bookings: Monique by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Natural pest control with companion planting

What: What you will learn: learn which plants to grow together, and which ones not to; learn how to solve many common garden problems naturally; and learn how to construct ‘plant guilds’ (groups of plants that grow much better together). Presented by Angelo Eliades. With companion planting, by knowing which plants to grow together and which ones not to, you can grow stronger, healthier and more productive plants, improve soil quality, and reduce pests and diseases in your garden. Learn which companion plants to add to your garden to solve many common garden problems naturally, and find out how to construct ‘plant guilds’ (groups of plants that grow much better together) for more abundant harvests.
When: Saturday, 13th May, 9.30am-midday.
Where: BAAG Nursery, Bulleen.
Cost: $45.
Enquiries: BAAG nursery by phone (8850 3030).
Bookings / Further information: We Teach Me.

GABS Beer, Cider & Food Fest

What: Featuring more than 600 beers and ciders, up to 180 specially brewed Festival beers and ciders, the thriving Dan Murphy’s Marketplace, The Local Taphouse Craft College, Ariston Food & Drink Experience, plus the Little Creatures Live entertainment program.
When: Friday, 19th May, Saturday, 20th May and Sunday, 21st May, all midday-5pm; also Friday, 19th May and Saturday, 20th May, both 6.30-11.30pm.
Where: Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton.
Cost: $45.

Bush foods & herbs for courtyards & balconies

What: What you will learn: which native produce-plants are suitable for growing in pots and small spaces; what to harvest and when; and how to use bush foods and herbs to flavour your dishes. Presented by Karen Sutherland, of Edible Eden Design. Australian native plants have flavour and aroma profiles unlike any others, and can be easily incorporated into your kitchen. Also, a wide range of them can be grown in Melbourne in pots or small and difficult spaces. In this class, which is ideal for those with limited garden space or even just a courtyard or balcony, you will explore the world of edible native Australian plants that are easy to grow in such spaces, attractive to look at and can easily add flavour and interest to your home-cooked dishes.All plants covered are suitable for Melbourne’s climate, and will be discussed in terms of how best to use and grow them in your garden.
When: Thursday, 25th May, 6.30-7.30pm.
Where: BAAG Nursery, Bulleen.
Cost: $45.
Enquiries: BAAG nursery by phone (8850 3030).
Bookings / Further information: We Teach Me.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week

• Beginners’ Italian cheese making class: Wednesday, 29th March, 6-8pm.
• Smarter living – preserving the harvest: Wednesday, 29th March, 7-9pm.
• Love food, hate waste: Wednesday, 29th March, 6.30-8.30pm.
• The Sugarloaf story: Wednesday, 29th March, 7-8pm.
• Beekeeping workshop: Saturday, 1st April, 9-11am.
• Growing fruit and veggies in small spaces: Saturday, 1st April, 9.30am-12.30pm.
• Sourdough bread making workshop: Saturday, 1st April, 10am-1pm.
• Mallow (khabizat) workshop: Saturday, 1st April, 10.30am-midday.
• Edible gardening workshop: Saturday, 1st April, 11am-12.30pm.
• Yarra Valley Wine and Food Festival: Saturday, 1st April, 11am-5pm.
• The garden farmacy with Lisa Hodge: Saturday, 1st April, 2-4.30pm.
• The flowing bowl: Saturday, 1st April, 5-8pm.
• How to grow veggies the Italian way!: Sunday, 2nd April, 10am-1pm.
• Open Farm Day: Sunday, 2nd April, 10am-4pm.
• Yarra Valley Wine and Food Festival: Sunday, 2nd April, 11am-5pm.
• On The Bend / On The Mend – Coffee and Beer Festival: Sunday, 2nd April, midday-5pm.
• Smorgasburb by Sand Hill Road: Sunday, 2nd April, midday-7pm.
• How to make sense of food labels: Monday, 3rd April, 9.30-11am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 9-9.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 10-10.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 11-11.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, midday-12.45pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 1.30-2.15pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 2.30-3.15pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 9-9.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 10-10.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 11-11.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, midday-12.45pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 1.30-2.15pm.
• Easter cupcake decorating (Brunswick): Wednesday, 5th April, 2-3pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 2.30-3.15pm.
• Celebrating festivals of Spain: Wednesday, 5th April, 6-11pm.
• Sustainable living and gardening: Wednesday, 5th April, 7-9pm.

Over the next month

• The environmental chef with Ryan DeCoite: Thursday, 6th April, 10am-3pm.
• Edendale young farmers: Thursday, 6th April, 9am-midday.
• Easter cupcake decorating (Coburg): Thursday, 6th April, 2-3pm.
• Build your own coffee blend: Thursday, 6th April, 2-5pm.
• Orange is the new Blanc: Thursday, 6th April, 5-9pm.
• Pizzini pop-up barrel room: Friday, 7th April, 4pm-midnight.
• Olive magic: Saturday, 8th April, 9.30am-12.30pm.
• Fundamentals of beekeeping (two-day): Saturday, 8th April and Sunday, 9th April, both 9.30am-4pm.
• Passata demonstration with Jean Garita: Saturday, 8th April, 10-11.30am.
• Wild food and medicine walk: Saturday, 8th April, 10am-midday.
• Asian cuisine workshop – dumplings: Saturday, 8th April, 10.30-11.15am.
• Edible gardening workshopc: Saturday, 8th April, 11am-12.30pm.
• South East Asia Festival: Saturday, 8th April, 11am-5pm.
• Asian cuisine workshop – celebrity chefs: Saturday, 8th April, midday-12.45pm.
• Pizzini pop-up barrel room: Saturday, 8th April, midday-midnight.
• Asian cuisine workshop – Japanese cuisine: Saturday, 8th April, 1.30pm-2.15pm.
• Coffee workshop: Sunday, 9th April, 10am-midday.
• Food photography masterclass: Sunday, 9th April, 10am-midday.
• Permablitz 196 (Brunswick): Sunday, 9th April, 10am-4.30pm.
• Harveast: Sunday, 9th April, 10am-9pm.
• Asian cuisine workshop – sushi: Sunday, 9th April, 10.30-11.15am.
• Chef masterclass with Dan Wilson (Huxtaburger): Sunday, 9th April, 11-11.45am.
• Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience: Sunday, 9th April, 11-11.45am.
• South East Asia Festival: Sunday, 9th April, 11am-5pm.
• Asian cuisine workshop – vegan cuisine: Sunday, 9th April, midday-12.45pm.
• Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience: Sunday, 9th April, midday-12.45pm.
• An hour with Stephanie Alexander: Sunday, 9th April, midday-1pm.
• Pizzini pop-up barrel room: Sunday, 9th April, midday-midnight.
• Chef masterclass with Frank Camora (MoVida, Paco’s Tacos): Sunday, 9th April, 12.30-13.15pm.
• Beer workshop: Sunday, 9th April, 12.30-2.30pm.
• Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience: Sunday, 9th April, 1-1.45pm.
• Asian cuisine workshop – Taiwanese cuisine: Sunday, 9th April, 1.30pm-2.15pm.
• Chef masterclass with Johnny Di Francesco (400 Gradi, Gradi East): Sunday, 9th April, 2-2.45pm.
• Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience: Sunday, 9th April, 2-2.45pm.
• Food photography masterclass: Sunday, 9th April, 2-4pm.
• Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience: Sunday, 9th April, 3.3.45pm.
• Prosciutto workshop: Sunday, 9th April, 3-5pm.
• Meet the baker (Burnham Bakery): Sunday, 9th April, 3.30-4.15pm.
• Chocolate connoisseur tasting experience: Sunday, 9th April, 4-4.45pm.
• Gardening with kids: Tuesday, 11th April, 10am-midday.
• Fermenting and infusing at home: Tuesday, 11th April, 11am-midday.
• Weeds, plants and people: Tuesday, 11th April, 7.30-8.30pm.
• Seed raising with Felicity Gordon: Tuesday, 18th April, 11.30am-12.30pm.
• Introduction to home wine-making: Tuesday, 18th April, 6.30-8.30pm.
• The joy of backyard chooks: Thursday, 20th April, 6.30-9pm.
• Artisan pasta – fettuccini: Friday, 21st April, 10am-12.15pm.
• Olive magic – preserving olives: Saturday, 22nd April, 9.30-11.30am.
• Apple tasting at Petty’s Orchard: Saturday, 22nd April, 2-4pm.
• How to design a clean food growing system: Wednesday, 26th April, 7-9pm.
• Olive magic – preserving olives: Friday, 28th April, 9.30-11.30am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Saturday, 29th April, 9-9.45am.
• Native herbs for the kitchen and garden: Saturday, 29th April, 9.30-10.30am.
• Introduction to horticulture – 9 session course: Weekly, starting Saturday 29th April, 9.30am-3pm.
• Sourdough bread making workshop: Saturday, 29th April, 10am-1pm.
• Nettles with Monique Eve Miller: Saturday, 29th April, 10.30am-midday.
• Keeping backyard chooks: Saturday, 29th April, 11am-midday.
• Chocolate discovery class: Saturday, 29th April, 12.45-1.45pm.
• Soil improvement workshop: Saturday, 29th April, 2-4.30pm.

Click here for the complete calendar of upcoming events. Click here for help in how to view the calendar selectively (e.g. search for events in a given suburb).

A map of Eltham’s restaurants

After spending January drinking my way round Eltham (coffee only!) for the Eltham cafes map, I have now spent February and March eating my way round Eltham in order to create an Eltham restaurants map. The map shows where all the 20 restaurants are, their contact details and their menus. Menus are available for every single restaurant (although some suffer from my poor photographic skills).

Note that, of the 20 restaurants, 4 specialise in Italian food, 2 Indian, 2 Thai, 1 Chinese and 1 Lebanese. 7 of the 20 are also cafes (i.e. they are open during the day), whilst 13 are open in the evening only. In passing, 12 of the 20 also do takeaway, but that will be the subject for a future newsletter.

News about Eltham cafes

Eltham now has 31 cafes rather than 30! Platform 3095 has just opened and is next to the railway station. They are currently only open during the day and only serving a limited amount of food but Jennifer and Jean Francois have plans to build a kitchen in the near future, at which time they will also open in the evening. They also plan to serve, or use, a variety of local food. Welcome Jennifer and Jean Francois!

Eltham Glasshouse has re-opened with a changed menu after renovations by its new management. Its new owner, Peter, also owns the Dunyazad Lebanese Restaurant in Balwyn North. Welcome Peter!

Both changes above have been included in the Eltham cafes map.

Community Grocer comes to Mernda

The Community Grocer aims to improve access for people living on a low-income to fresh, affordable food. They do this by operating fruit and vegetable stalls in three locations:

• Carlton: every Friday, from 9am-midday at the public housing estate, 510 Lygon Street.
• Fawkner: every Wednesday, from 9am-12.30pm at the Community Hub, 79-83 Jukes Road.
• Mernda: every Thursday, from 9am-midday at Mernda Central P-12 College, 70 Breadalbane Avenue.

Mernda is launching on Thursday, 16th March. As Annemaree Docking, Agribusiness Officer at Whittlesea Council, says: “All are welcome, so get behind this wonderful new initiative and grab yourself some fresh seasonal fruit and veg!”

Jane Edmanson visits FareShare at Abbotsford

FareShare cooks 5,000(!), free nutritious meals for Victorians for free every day. Watch this video from this week’s Gardening Australia, where Jane Edmanson visits them to see what they do and how they do it. It is both watchable and reasonably short (5 minutes).

Community gardens news

St Johns Riverside Community Garden, Heidelberg, officially opened on 4th March. More than 50 people turned up, including two Councillors.

The Eltham Living & Learning Centre has a communal veggie garden comprising several, large, raised beds. They meet every Thursday, 9.30-11am. Some of their longstanding gardeners are moving from the area and they are looking for new members. If interested, or for further information, phone either Trevor Roberts (0401 710997) or Karyn Kamminga (9433 3744).

The Northcote Library Food Garden is a communal food garden. Working bees take place on the second Sunday of the month at 10am, except long weekends (so 19th March, 9th April, 14th May, etc). They are looking for more members to share the satisfying experience of growing and sharing healthy organic food. If interested, or for further information, email them.

Mac’s tip of the week

“When to pick a pear … well, about now actually. Pears are best picked before they are fully ripe. Picking about 2 weeks before full maturity is best, just when the skin color is starting to change and, if cut, the seeds are turning black. Here’s how to test: if the stem breaks off with the fruit when you lift them upwards to be horizontal, then they are ready. If kept at room temperature, they will then (like tomatoes) continue to ripen. If you press your thumb into the neck of the pear and it yields a little then your pear is ready to eat. Until next time, remember: dirty hands are good hands.”

Fruits that ripens after being picked are called ‘climacteric’. Banana and tomato are the classic examples. Other climacteric fruits include apricot, avocado, custard apple, peach, pear and plum. Fruits that don’t ripen at all after being picked are called ‘non-climacteric’ and they include all citrus, cherry, grape, pineapple and strawberry. Full lists are included in the fruiting schedule on the website.

Click here to view all of Mac’s tips.

Do you like Helen Mirren’s films?

Winchester is a film currently being shot in Victoria. It stars Helen Mirren and Jason Clarke and is scheduled to be released in either late 2017 or 2018. But the current shooting on location has apparently only been made possible because our local bee man, Frankie, from Bee Rescue, has been hard at work removing a swarm of bees.

Do you want to be on the television?

Channel Nine rang up (yes, really!) to ask if any newsletter readers would like to be on their upcoming cooking show called Family Food Fight. They are looking for families who share a passion for cooking together as a family. The show will be all about celebrating multi cultural families who love to cook traditional cultural recipes that have been in their families for generations. Your ‘family’ must be made up of 4 people, but they can be any type of relations. Click here to register. To talk to someone, contact James Chadney (Associate Producer) by phone (02 8587 1364) or email.

Two chicken songs and some knee socks

Both Fay Loveland and PIP Magazine suggest that you watch this song by someone called Loren Kate about a chicken called Cloudy Jane.

Neither Fay nor PIP Magazine suggest that you watch this chicken yodelling by someone called Takeo Ischi.

Joke of the week

What did the apple say to the orange? Nothing, stupid … apples don’t talk!

New events

A taste of harmony – food demonstrations and community lunch

What: Learn to cook food celebrated throughout the world and enjoy a community lunch. Hosted by five local residents from different cultural backgrounds, this event will celebrate the stories, memories and new connections to people and the food they love. Bookings essential.
When: Thursday, 23rd March, 10am-2pm.
Where: Heidelberg West.
Cost: $5.
Enquiries / Bookings: by phone (8582 9501).
Further information: LFC calender entry.

Open Farm Day

What: Open Farm Day is your chance to visit working farms and meet local farmers. This year’s participating farms come from Nillumbik, Whittlesea and the Kinglake Ranges. The activities will include: farm tours; live demonstrations; farm animals; and product tastings. The farms participating in 2017 are: Apted Farm Services; Apteds Pear and Apple Orchard; Edendale Community Environment Farm; Giverny Estate; Kings of Kangaroo Ground; Northern Lodge Training Centre (Melbourne Polytechnic); Omaru Alpaca; Philip Lobley Wines; Shaws Road Winery and Cider; Sugarloaf Produce; Turners Bakehouse; Wedgetail Estate; Weeping Grevillea Nursery; Yan Yean Farm (Melbourne Polytechnic); Yarrambat Estate Vineyard; and Yarra Valley Custom Meats.
When: Sunday, 2nd April, 10am-4pm.
Where: various.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Nillumbik Council by phone (9433 3316) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calender entry.

Easter cupcake decorating (Brunswick)

What: Get creative with Easter cupcake decorating. During the session, you’ll be able to learn new techniques for icing and decorating cupcakes with a delightful Easter theme. Not suitable for children. All materials provided.
When: Wednesday, 5th April, 2-3pm.
Where: Brunswick Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Moreland City Libraries by phone (9389 8600) or email.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calender entry.

Easter cupcake decorating (Coburg)

What: Get creative with Easter cupcake decorating. During the session, you’ll be able to learn new techniques for icing and decorating cupcakes with a delightful Easter theme. Not suitable for children. All materials provided.
When: Thursday, 6th April, 2-3pm.
Where: Brunswick Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Moreland City Libraries by phone (9389 8600) or email.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calender entry.

Mediterranean cooking with Angela

What: Angela will demonstrate how to make simple, healthy, seasonal dishes inspired by the Mediterranean diet. Angela is a passionate cook and teacher at her own cooking school, Angela’s Kitchen, in Northcote.
When: Saturday, 6th May, 10-11am.
Where: Montrose Library.
Cost: $5.
Enquiries: Montrose Library by phone (9800 6490).
Bookings: Eastern Regional Libraries’ website.
Further information: LFC calender entry.

Italian cooking workshop (flavours of Naples)

What: A tasty three-course menu, including pasta, will be prepared in this hands-on workshop and enjoyed afterwards. Tutor Janice Mariani. Janice spent 30 years cooking for the locals and celebrities in a restaurant amidst the hills of Umbria, Italy. Bring an apron and a container to take home any leftovers.
When: Saturday, 6th May, 10-1pm.
Where: Living & Learning Nillumbik at Panton Hill.
Cost: $72.
Enquiries: Living & Learning Nillumbik by phone (9433 3744) or email.
Bookings: Living & Learning website.
Further information: LFC calender entry.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week

• Success with a dehydrator: Thursday, 16th March, 10.30-11.30am.
• Growing veggies is easier than you think: Thursday, 16th March, 6.30-9pm.
• Introduction to permaculture (two day): Friday, 17th March and Friday, 24th March, both 10am-4pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Saturday, 18th March, 9-9.45am.
• Thai cooking workshop: Saturday, 18th March, 10am-1pm.
• The Herb and Chilli Festival: Saturday, 18th March, 10am-5pm.
• Chocolate discovery class: Saturday, 18th March, 12.45-1.45pm.
• Backyard chooks for beginners: Saturday, 18th March, 1-3pm.
• Kick start your Winter veggie patch: Saturday, 18th March, 1-4pm.
• Macleod Organic Community Garden tour: Saturday, 18th March, 2-3pm.
• Set up and maintain a worm farm: Sunday, 18th March, 2-3pm.
• Macleod Organic Community Garden tour: Saturday, 18th March, 3-4pm.
• Backyard chooks workshop: Saturday, 18th March, 3-5pm.
• Bees – focused hands-on beekeeping course: Sunday, 19th March, 9am-5pm.
• The Melbourne Tomato Festival: Sunday, 19th March, 10am-4pm.
• The Herb and Chilli Festival: Sunday, 19th March, 10am-5pm.
• Duang and Rob’s garden: Sunday, 19th March, 11am-midday.
• Monsalvat garden tour: Sunday, 19th March, 11am-midday.
• Duang and Rob’s garden: Sunday, 19th March, 12.30-1.30pm.
• Monsalvat garden tour: Sunday, 19th March, 12.30-1.30pm.
• Duang and Rob’s garden: Sunday, 19th March, 2-3pm.
• Monsalvat garden tour: Sunday, 19th March, 2-3pm.
• Vietnamese cooking and costume show: Monday, 20th March, 10.30-11.30am.
• Beales Road Farm: Monday, 20th March, 11am-midday.
• Chicken chatter: Tuesday, 21st March, 11.30am-12.30pm.
• Growing garlic: Tuesday, 21st March, 7-8pm.
• Safe preserving techniques – bottled fruit, jams, pickles & relishes: Wednesday, 22nd March, 10am-1.15pm.

Over the next month

• A taste of harmony – food demonstrations and community lunch: Thursday, 23rd March, 10am-2pm.
• Success with a dehydrator: Thursday, 23rd March, 11am-midday.
• Buzz inn – bringing beneficial insects to your garden: Thursday, 23rd March, 6-7.15pm.
• Just Eat It (film) (Edendale): Thursday, 23rd March, 6.30-8pm.
• Healthy productive compost and worms: Thursday, 23rd March, 6.30-9pm.
• Setting up a community garden in Wollert: Saturday, 25th March, starting at 9am.
• Italian cooking workshop (gnocchi): Saturday, 25th March, 10am-1pm.
• Introduction to natural beekeeping (two-day): Saturday, 25th March and Sunday, 26th March, both 10am-5pm.
• Opportunity to set up a community garden in Lalor: Saturday, 25th March, 10.30am onwards.
• Planning your Winter veggie garden: Saturday, 25th March, 2-4pm.
• Thrive Community Garden open day: Sunday, 26th March, 10am-3pm.
• Chute Street planter boxes open day: Sunday, 26th March, 1-2pm.
• Creating and maintaining a wicking bed: Sunday, 26th March, 2-3pm.
• Palestinian cooking workshop: Sunday, 26th March, 2.30-4.30pm.
• Propagation workshop: Sunday, 26th March, 2.30-5pm.
• Preparing your garden for winter and improving your soil: Sunday, 26th March, 3-4pm.
• Easter chocolate novelties workshop: Monday, 27th March, 10.30-midday.
• Beales Road Farm: Monday, 27th March, 11am-midday.
• Beginners’ Italian cheese making class: Wednesday, 29th March, 6-8pm.
• Smarter living – preserving the harvest: Wednesday, 29th March, 7-9pm.
• Love food, hate waste: Wednesday, 29th March, 6.30-8.30pm.
• The Sugarloaf story: Wednesday, 29th March, 7-8pm.
• Beekeeping workshop: Saturday, 1st April, 9-11am.
• Growing fruit and veggies in small spaces: Saturday, 1st April, 9.30am-12.30pm.
• Yarra Valley Wine and Food Festival: Saturday, 1st April, 11am-5pm.
• The garden farmacy with Lisa Hodge: Saturday, 1st April, 2-4.30pm.
• Open Farm Day: Sunday, 2nd April, 10am-4pm.
• Yarra Valley Wine and Food Festival: Sunday, 2nd April, 11am-5pm.
• How to make sense of food labels: Monday, 3rd April, 9.30-11am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 9-9.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 10-10.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 11-11.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, midday-12.45pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 1.30-2.15pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Tuesday, 4th April, 2.30-3.15pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 9-9.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 10-10.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 11-11.45am.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, midday-12.45pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 1.30-2.15pm.
• Easter cupcake decorating (Brunswick): Wednesday, 5th April, 2-3pm.
• Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 5th April, 2.30-3.15pm.
• Sustainable living and gardening: Wednesday, 5th April, 7-9pm.
• The environmental chef with Ryan DeCoite: Thursday, 6th April, 10am-3pm.
• Easter cupcake decorating (Coburg): Thursday, 6th April, 2-3pm.
• Olive magic: Saturday, 8th April, 9.30am-12.30pm.
• Permablitz 196 (Brunswick): Sunday, 9th April, 10am-4.30pm.
• Gardening with kids: Tuesday, 11th April, 10am-midday.
• Fermenting and infusing at home: Tuesday, 11th April, 11am-midday.
• Set up and maintain a worm farm: Thursday, 13th April, 2-3pm.

Click here for the complete calendar of upcoming events. Click here for help in how to view the calendar selectively (e.g. search for events in a given suburb).

Helen’s latest home-grower interview

Helen Simpson has completed another home-grower interview, this time with Heather from Box Hill South. Here is the first paragraph: “Heather enthusiastically welcomes Guy and myself as we arrive at her front door. We are eager to see her garden due to the expanse of food that Heather grows on her suburban block and over the next hour we are not disappointed. Around the kitchen table over a cup of coffee, Heather tells us how her interest in gardening began – firstly with the influence of her father who taught her the botanical names of plants, then later on through inspiration from a work colleague, who introduced her to newsletters from Permaculture Victoria.” Read the full interview.

March is Harvest Month

As discussed in the last newsletter, March is Harvest Month in Nillumbik and Banyule. We have now produced a flyer of all the month’s activities (in pdf format). Click here to view or download the flyer. As you will see, it is rather speccy.

The activities during the month are diverse, ranging from talks on food growing and processing, through open veggie gardens, to opportunities to connect with your local farmers.

There are still spaces available for four of the events on the upcoming weekend. And all four events are free! And, you can book by simply clicking the links below! So, as Shia LaBeouf would say, just do it!

• Mernda Community Garden, Saturday, 4th March at 10.30am.
• Robin and Paul’s garden, Sunday, 5th March at 10am, 11.30am and 1pm.
• Guy and Susan’s garden, Sunday, 5th March at 11am and 1pm.
• Stuart’s garden, Sunday, 5th March at 11am and midday.

The Home Harvest Feastival

The Feastival took place last Sunday and, as I can personally attest, was very successful. It was at Edendale Farm and around 400 people attended. Here is a roll call of some of the local food producers and others who contributed.

The lead organiser:

• Kirsty Bromfield from Nillumbik Council.

The lead chefs:

• Duang Tengtrirat, from Real Food Catering.
• Michelle Hegarty, from Homegrown Catering.

Local foodies who gave presentations:

• Daniel Russo from Wholemilk Continental Cheese Company: cheesemaking.
• Dianne Gordon from Edendale: presentation of worm farms.
• Hanh Truong from PoppySmack: rice paper rolls.
• Ian Culbard from Nillumbik Council: seed saving.
• Kat Veilgaard from Bulleen Art & Garden Nursery: companion planting.
• Paul Gale-Baker from Urban Shepherd: wicking beds.
• Richard Lee from KABUU: soil block veggie seedlings.
• Steve Laurence from Edendale: chooks.
• Yvonne Ashby: sourdough breadmaking.

Local producers who donated food:

• A Local Baker St Andrews: bread.
• Edendale Farm: various produce.
• Eltham Farmers’ Market: various produce.
• Hildebrand Grove: olive oil.
• La Tortilleria: corn chips and bread.
• Wholemilk Continental Cheese Company: ricotta.

And, of course, there were many other volunteers who helped out.

A new food swap – at Heathmont

4th Saturday of each month, 10-11.30am. At Tables Community Garden, Heathmont Baptist Church, 78 Cuthbert Street, Heathmont, 3135. Organised by Outer Eastern Permaculture Swap. Contact: Karen Cheah at by email.

That makes a total of 29(!) regular food swaps in North East Melbourne – see the website for a list and map of all 29, together with contact details for each.

How about establishing a ‘fruit squad’ in your area?

The Darebin Fruit Squad (DFS) collects surplus fruit from local backyard fruit trees in Darebin and re-distributes it to local agencies who assist food-insecure people. These agences include the Darebin Information, Volunteer & Resource Service (DIVRS), with whom they work in partnership. Since their establishment in 2013, they have collected around 6 tonnes of fruit. Whilst some tree owners simply offer their surplus fruit, others are provided with maintenance services (fertilising, pruning, etc) in return for their surplus fruit.

Based on this experience, DFS and DIVRS are now encouraging others localities to develop similar initiatives. To assist with this, they have recently published a booklet entitled Harvesting the Urban Orchard, whose aim is “to provide practical information, tools and tips that you can use in establishing your own fruit-harvesting project.” Click here to view or download the booklet.

If you would like to discuss any aspects of this, contact Martin O’Callaghan by phone (9480 8200) or email.

Darebin winemaking mentoring pilot project

The Darebin Homemade Food and Wine Festival is looking for both mentors and mentees for a pilot project that aims to match older home wine makers with younger people eager to learn this amazing traditional skill from the experts! Mentors – you will be Darebin based, plan to make wine at home in 2017 and are keen to share your skills. Mentees – you will be Darebin based and available for up to 3 sessions with a winemaker between March and May. They will photograph and record some meetings in articles to capture the connections made through the age old art of making wine. For more information and to register your interest, please contact Lee Tozzi by phone (8470 8392) or email. Applications close second week in March.

What to plant in March (click here for more details)

Here is a list:
Beetroot
Broad beans
Brussel sprouts
Cabbage
Carrot
Chives
Fennel
Kale
Leeks
Lettuce
Mizuna
Mustard greens
Oregano
Pak choy
Parsley
Radish
Rocket
Shallot
Silverbeet
Spinach

Read Helen’s 2016 article on autumn plantings.

Ringwood Farmers’ Market is “currently taking a break”

There haven’t been any Ringwood Farmers’ Markets (aka Eastland Farmers’ Market) in 2017. The Eastland website says that they are “currently taking a break”.

Foodbank Victoria

As you may know, Foodbank Victoria is a major organisation whose purpose is “to source and distribute healthy food to assist Victorians experiencing hardship.” Each year, around 500,000(!) Victorians apparently receive food that came from the Foodbank. Much of this food is delivered via ‘Foodshares’ as part of the Statewide Emergency Relief Scheme.

‘Crowd harvest’ tomatoes for Easter

People are invited to donate their homegrown excess tomatoes at any time from 30th March to 12th April. Anyone growing tomatoes in their own backyard usually produces excess. By contrast, Melbourne food relief providers are currently being faced with higher demand for emergency assistance than they can manage. Donate your excess via any of DIVRS, Preston, STREAT, Collingwood or The Green @ St. Columbs, Hawthorn. They will then distribute, either fresh or preserved (as passata, chutney, sundried or dell’olio), through their food relief programs. Any questions, contact Cath Lyons (aka Tiny Trowel) by phone (0401 814679) or email.

Mac’s tip of the week

“It’s time to remove (and maybe tag for next year) most of your bird netting now that your fruit has been harvested. In so doing, you may need to prune any growth that has come through the netting. In fact, why not keep going and give your fruit trees a good ‘late summer prune’ rather than wait until winter dormancy, as is more traditional. This can be particularly beneficial for stonefruit or any espaliered/trained trees where you do not want vigorous spring growth (water shoots) to ruin your desired shape. At this time of the year, wounds heal quickly and, whilst there will be some re-growth, it won’t be the vigorous, unproductive, vertical growth (water shoots) often seen after hard winter pruning. Until next time, remember: dirty hands are still good hands in 2017.”

Talking with Mac earlier this week, he was raving about the garden of one of his clients, saying that it had ‘homegrown’ written all over it (established fruit trees, veggie beds, berries, herbs, chicken run, beehive, vines, etc). The house is 8-10 Zig Zag Road, Eltham, it is up for sale and you can read all about it at realestate.com.au.

Click here to view all of Mac’s tips.

Joke of the week

What do you do if life gives you melons? See a doctor, because you’re dyslexic. (Thanks to Sabi Buehler, here’s a non-food version of the same joke: Have you heard of the dyslexic Satanist? He sold his soul to Santa)

If you don’t understand this joke, have a look at this Wikipedia page. If you do understand the joke, have a look at the Wikipedia page anyway as it is rather interesting.

As you may have noticed, every newsletter always contains at least one photo. This week’s photo, of two men in fruit-themed body paint, was photographed by Claire Miller. As Claire says “I was watching a rather out there acrobatic busker act on Southbank by a Japanese gymnast calling himself Jackie Chan Chan when these two turned up and started scoring his act. They seemed related to possibly promoting Juice Boost but I can’t be certain. They were just such a bizarre addition to the crowd watching an already bizarre act that I snapped the photo. Cool body paint, though!”

Some links

Karyn Knight suggests that you read the article How do we keep gardening in the face of a changing climate?.

The Urban Harvest team, who run the Box Hill South and Forest Hill urban harvests, have sent me a link to a quirky little article on three ways to save tomato seeds: fermenting, drying and burying.

New events

Palestinian cooking workshop

What: Led by nutritionist Rasha Tayeh. This workshop will take you on a sensory journey into Palestinian cuisine and look specifically at foods and herbs that support us during the transitions of autumn, as we move away from the warmer months of summer into the cooler months of winter. You will: focus on traditional herbal infusions & remedies, from selected herbs and spices used in Palestine and the Levant; and cook a delicious vegan meal and discuss nutritional benefits of seasonal produce. Participants will go home with: recipes of the meal shared on the day; a deeper understanding & curiosity for delicious foods from Palestine & traditional herbal medicine; and a jar of their personally crafted herbal infusion (optional for $8 each during the workshop, cash only). The workshop is limited to 12 spaces.
When: Sunday, 26th March, 2.30-4.30pm.
Where: CERES community kitchen.
Cost: $65.
Enquiries: Rasha Tayeh by phone (0403 843923) or email.
Bookings: Trybooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

3000acres public meet-up

What: Ever wanted to know more about 3000acres? Know of a vacant piece of land with food growing opportunities? Looking for help or guidance with starting a community food project? Bring your questions and your big ideas along to the first 3000acres public meet-up for 2017. They would love to hear any thoughts on how they can help more people growing more food in more places.
When: Wednesday, 8th March, 6-7pm.
Where: Jewell Community Garden, Brunswick.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: 3000acres by email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cool season vegetables

What: Gardener Katie Grace will talk about cool season vegetables, the best crops to sow, soil preparation and how to layout your garden for a successful harvest
When: Thursday, 9th March, 11am-midday.
Where: Heide Museum of Modern Art.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Heide Museum of Modern Art by phone (9850 1500) or email.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Apple tasting at Petty’s Orchard

What: Sample the seasonal flavours of the Heritage Apple Collection. Around 15 varieties available for tasting. Limited quantities available for purchase. Orchard tour included. Bookings essential.
When: Monday, 13th March, 4-6pm.
Where: Petty’s Orchard.
Cost: $15.
Enquiries: Heritage Fruits Society by phone (0449 508318).
Bookings: Heritage Fruits Society website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Backyard chooks workshop

What: Go along and learn the basics of backyard chicken-keeping. This workshop will cover the characteristics of different breeds (in order to make a selection that suits your setting and needs) as well as the housing and care of chickens. Participants will leave with the knowledge and confidence to begin keeping chickens and producing their own free-range eggs! Facilitated by Farmer Stephen from Edendale Farm. Hosted by Earth Co-op and Murundaka Cohousing Community.
When: Saturday, 18th March, 3-5pm.
Where: Murundaka Cohousing Community.
Cost: $7.50.
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Vietnamese cooking and costume show

What: Enjoy a taste of Vietnamese culture with a cooking demonstration with the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association, followed by a Vietnamese traditional costume show.
When: Monday, 20th March, 10.30-11.30am.
Where: Thomastown Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Thomastown Library by phone (9464 1864) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Propagation workshop

What: Facilitated by Robin and Paul Gale-Baker from Sustainable Macleod. In this workshop you will learn how to propagate from seed (in punnets and direct sowing into the garden), cuttings and root division. If you have secateurs please bring them. If you are a beginner gardener, this workshop will help you to get started while more experienced gardeners will enjoy taking advantage of the expertise of the facilitators.
When: Sunday, 26th March, 2.30-5pm.
Where: Alice House, Heidelberg West.
Cost: $15.
Enquiries: Mikoto Araki by phone (9450 2665).
Bookings: Eventbrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Easter chocolate novelties workshop

What: Join Irene Williams from the Victorian Cake Decorating Society to make your own Chicken in a Rocky Road Nest. Bookings essential.
When: Monday, 27th March, 10.30-midday.
Where: Thomastown Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Thomastown Library by phone (9464 1864) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Opportunity to set up a community garden in Lalor

What: Links Community Group is looking for people who are interested in starting a community garden in Lalor. They have a pending lease application at 405 station street Lalor (right near the train station) with VicTrack. This site has 24 hour access and can thus meet the needs of those who can’t normally attend during office hours. The purpose of the group will be as much about fostering community connections as gardening so all those who are interested in cooking, preserving, sustainability, sensory gardens, providing meals for those in need, upcycling, outdoor mothers, other social groups, eating or simply enjoy being in nature are encouraged to attend. Anyone interested in participating in the community garden, either attend this event on 25th March or email Matthew Odgers or simply join their Facebook page.
When: Saturday, 25th March, 10.30am onwards.
Where: Lalor Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Matthew Odgers from the Links Community Group by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Beekeeping workshop

What: What you will learn: bee behaviour; the various major items that make up a bee hive and how to construct them; and the major tasks in hive management. What you will get: a wooden beehive frame that will have beeswax foundation inserted as part of the workshop; and a $5 discount on the book Bee AgSkills (normally $27.50, $22.50 with discount). There will be live bees and honeycomb to look at in a secure exhibition cabinet and a discussion of bee behaviour and hive management. The major items that make up a hive and their construction will be discussed. The equipment a beekeeper needs to work bees will also be reviewed. The major topics discussed will be: establishing a hive; understanding the tasks to be carried out in Spring; how to go about robbing and extracting honey; and swarm control. Participants will be limited to 8 to maintain an informal interactive format.
When: Saturday, 1st April, 9-11am.
Where: Bee Sustainable, Brunswick East.
Cost: $65.
Enquiries: Bee Sustainable by phone (9939 7301) or email.
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Olive magic

What: What you will learn: improve your culinary knowledge; learn how to preserve olives; and understand and experience different techniques for preserving olives. What you will get: take home olives ready to eat; take home olives that you will continue to cure ready to eat at a later date; recipes and notes on the different techniques used; and olive preserves tasting with cheese, biscuits and wine. Presented by Lucy Marasco. Transform bitter unpalatable olives into gourmet delights! This hands-on workshop will show you a variety of different ways Italians use to preserve green olives straight from the tree.
When: Saturday, 8th April, 9.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery.
Cost: $45.
Enquiries: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery by phone (8850 3030).
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Gardening with kids

What: What you will learn: how to grow fresh produce in your own backyard and have heaps of fun doing it; how common household items can be reused in the garden; and how ‘good bugs’ can help you to look after your veggie patch. What you will get: seasonal vegetable seeds and/or seedlings to grow at home; detailed course notes; and booklet of gardening ideas and activities to try at home. Presented by Nicole Griffiths. Growing food is a great way for children to connect with the natural environment and to develop an appreciation for the food that they eat. It also happens to be heaps of fun. In this hands-on class, you will explore some easy and inexpensive ways to grow food at home, regardless of whether you have an acre of land or just a windowsill. Children (and grown-ups) will get their hands dirty with practical gardening and craft activities using recycled and re-purposed objects. By the end of the class, each student will have made a variety of goodies to grow and use in their gardens at home. The class is suitable for children aged 5 to 10 and children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Please note that the class cost covers both a child and 1 accompanying adult.
When: Tuesday, 11th April, 10am-midday.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery.
Cost: $35.
Enquiries: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery by phone (8850 3030).
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Seed raising with Felicity Gordon

What: Join local permaculture expert Felicity Gordon to learn the secrets successful seed raising.
When: Tuesday, 18th April, 11.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Diamond Valley Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Dione Fisher by phone (9434 3809) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The joy of backyard chooks

What: What you will learn: how to get started with keeping chickens in a suburban backyard; how to house and protect chooks from predators; and how chooks can be used to improve your garden and soil. Presented by Maria Ciavarella. A couple of chooks in the backyard were once a staple part of the suburban quarter acre block and their eggs a healthy part of the diet. Smaller backyards needn’t mean an end to keeping these most versatile of creatures. Join their class to find out how easy it is to keep a few hens as pets and as the ultimate garden recyclers in a sustainable household. They will cover housing, protection, feeding and varieties, as well as practical ideas on how to live harmoniously with them in your garden.
When: Thursday, 20th April, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery.
Cost: $45.
Enquiries: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery by phone (8850 3030).
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Apple tasting at Petty’s Orchard

What: Their last tasting of the apple season. A selection of late-ripening apples – dessert, cooking and cider. Taste 15 varieties over a 2-hour period. Orchard tour included. Coffee and nibbles included. Booking essential.
When: Saturday, 22nd April, 2-4pm.
Where: Petty’s Orchard.
Cost: $15.
Enquiries: Heritage Fruits Society by phone (0449 508318).
Bookings: Heritage Fruits Society website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Home harvest Manningham

What: A series of presentations to be held on the last Wednesday of the month when there isn’t a ‘Smarter Living’ presentation. More specifically:

• How to design a clean food growing system: Wednesday, 26th April, 7-9pm.
• Garlic masterclass: Wednesday, 28th June, 7-9pm.
• Fruit tree essentials: Wednesday, 30th August, 7-9pm.
• Tomato masterclass: Wednesday, 27th September, 7-9pm.
• Worm farm and composting: Wednesday, 25th October, 7-9pm.
• Summer harvest: Wednesday, 29th November, 7-9pm.

Where: Manningham Civic Centre.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Nigel Philpott by phone (9840 9173) or email.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Native herbs for the kitchen and garden

What: What you will learn: which native produce-plants are suitable for growing in the Melbourne area; what to harvest and when; and how to use them to flavour your dishes and enliven your garden. Presented by Karen Sutherland. Explore edible native Australian plants that are easy to grow, attractive and add flavour and interest to your home-cooked dishes. Lemon myrtle, bush pepper and native salt are just a few of the flavours we can smell and taste, and they and many others will be discussed in terms of how best to use and grow them in your garden. All plants covered are suitable for a Melbourne climate, and many are suitable for pot cultivation. Add bushfoods to your garden and plate without delay!
When: Saturday, 29th April, 9.30-10.30am.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery.
Cost: $45.
Enquiries: Bulleen Art and Garden Nursery by phone (8850 3030).
Bookings / Further information: WeTeachMe.

Introduction to horticulture – 9 session course

What: This is a 9-session course spread across 9 weeks. And it is only $130 for the full 9-session course! Working as a team with fellow participants, you will gain a broad overview and practical, hands-on experience such topics as: introduction to plant recognition; propagation; planting; soil properties; environmentally sustainable work practices; and career pathways/further study in the horticulture industry. You will spend a lot of time outdoors (getting your hands dirty!) under the leadership of an experienced trainer and horticulturalist, along with some time in the classroom learning basic theory and exploring study pathways. The course will be run by Justin Calverley, a horticultural expert with twenty years’ experience. Inter alia, Justin is a lead trainer in adult education at CERES, where he has presented workshops on topics ranging from fruit and vegetable production to bush foods, and from garden design to sustainable gardening.
When: Saturday, 29th April – Saturday, 8th July, 9.30am-3pm. Also, Monday, 1st May – Monday, 3rd July, 9.30am-3pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $130 for all 9 sessions ($73 concession).
Enquiries / Bookings / Further information: Living & Learning Nillumbik’s website.

Keeping backyard chooks

What: Felicity Gordon will cover the basics of keeping chooks in your own backyard. Topics covered will include: how to set up a fox proof chicken coup; advantages of different breeds; what to feed chooks; how to keep chooks in good health; and how keeping chooks can be a valuable part of a productive food garden.
When: Saturday, 29th April, 11am-midday.
Where: Watsonia Library.
Cost: free.
Enquiries: Watsonia Library by phone (9088 3417).
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week

• Sustainable living and gardening: Wednesday, 1st March, 7-9pm.
• Sowing and saving seeds: Thursday, 2nd March, 6.30-9pm.
• Children’s garden and worm farm: Saturday, 4th March, 11am-midday.
• Chinese cooking with Jenny: Saturday, 4th March, 11am-midday.
• Soil improvement workshop: Saturday, 4th March, 2-4.30pm.
• Fermentation – an introduction to lactofermented fruit: Saturday, 4th March, 3-5pm.
• Robin and Paul’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, 10-11am.
• Guy and Susan’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, 11am-midday.
• Stuart’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, 11am-midday.
• Robin and Paul’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, 11.30am-12.30pm.
• Stuart’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, midday-1pm.
• Guy and Susan’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, 1-2pm.
• Robin and Paul’s garden: Sunday, 5th March, 1-2pm.
• Beekeeping – a taster: Sunday, 5th March, 1-3.30pm.
• 3000acres public meet-up: Wednesday, 8th March, 6-7pm.

Over the next month

• Cool season vegetables: Thursday, 9th March, 11am-midday.
• The art of espalier: Thursday, 9th March, 6.30-9pm.
• Learn to make pasta: Saturday, 11th March, 11am-midday.
• Tomato passata – the traditional way: Sunday, 12th March, 9.30am-3pm.
• Apple tasting at Petty’s Orchard: Monday, 13th March, 4-6pm.
• Success with a dehydrator: Tuesday, 14th March, 7-8pm.
• Success with a dehydrator: Thursday, 16th March, 10.30-11.30am.
• Bees in the burbs…: Thursday, 16th March, 6-9pm.
• Growing veggies is easier than you think: Thursday, 16th March, 6.30-9pm.
• Introduction to permaculture (two day): Friday, 17th March and Friday, 24th March, both 10am-4pm.
• Thai cooking workshop: Saturday, 18th March, 10am-1pm.
• The Herb and Chilli Festival: Saturday, 18th March, 10am-5pm.
• Backyard chooks for beginners: Saturday, 18th March, 1-3pm.
• Kick start your Winter veggie patch: Saturday, 18th March, 1-4pm.
• Macleod Organic Community Garden tour: Saturday, 18th March, 2-3pm.
• Set up and maintain a worm farm: Sunday, 18th March, 2-3pm.
• Macleod Organic Community Garden tour: Saturday, 18th March, 3-4pm.
• Backyard chooks workshop: Saturday, 18th March, 3-5pm.
• The Melbourne Tomato Festival: Sunday, 19th March, 10am-4pm.
• The Herb and Chilli Festival: Sunday, 19th March, 10am-5pm.
• Duang and Rob’s garden: Sunday, 19th March, 11am-midday.
• Monsalvat garden tour: Sunday, 19th March, 11am-midday.
• Duang and Rob’s garden: Sunday, 19th March, 12.30-1.30pm.
• Monsalvat garden tour: Sunday, 19th March, 12.30-1.30pm.
• Duang and Rob’s garden: Sunday, 19th March, 2-3pm.
• Monsalvat garden tour: Sunday, 19th March, 2-3pm.
• Vietnamese cooking and costume show: Monday, 20th March, 10.30-11.30am.
• Beales Road Farm: Monday, 20th March, 11am-midday.
• Chicken chatter: Tuesday, 21st March, 11.30am-12.30pm.
• Growing garlic: Tuesday, 21st March, 7-8pm.
• Success with a dehydrator: Thursday, 23rd March, 11am-midday.
• Just Eat It (film) (Edendale): Thursday, 23rd March, 6.30-8pm.
• Healthy productive compost and worms: Thursday, 23rd March, 6.30-9pm.
• Italian cooking workshop (gnocchi): Saturday, 25th March, 10am-1pm.
• Opportunity to set up a community garden in Lalor: Saturday, 25th March, 10.30am onwards.
• Planning your Winter veggie garden: Saturday, 25th March, 2-4pm.
• Thrive Community Garden open day: Sunday, 26th March, 10am-3pm.
• Chute Street planter boxes open day: Sunday, 26th March, 1-2pm.
• Creating and maintaining a wicking bed: Sunday, 26th March, 2-3pm.
• Palestinian cooking workshop: Sunday, 26th March, 2.30-4.30pm.
• Propagation workshop: Sunday, 26th March, 2.30-5pm.
• Preparing your garden for winter and improving your soil: Sunday, 26th March, 3-4pm.
• Easter chocolate novelties workshop: Monday, 27th March, 10.30-midday.
• Beales Road Farm: Monday, 27th March, 11am-midday.
• Introduction to home wine-making: Tuesday, 28th March, 6.30-8.30pm.
• Beginners’ Italian cheese making class: Wednesday, 29th March, 6-8pm.
• Smarter living – preserving the harvest: Wednesday, 29th March, 7-9pm.
• Love food, hate waste: Wednesday, 29th March, 6.30-8.30pm.
• The Sugarloaf story: Wednesday, 29th March, 7-8pm.

Click here for the complete calendar of upcoming events. Click here for help in how to view the calendar selectively (e.g. search for events in a given suburb).