LFC News January 30 2019

Jan 292019
 

3000acres’ issue of the month: renters and food growing

I’m really pleased to announce that Morgan (Koegel) and Merrin (Layden), from 3000acres, have agreed to become regular contributors to this newsletter. The plan is for them to highlight issues that the local food movement should be thinking about, one issue per month. As discussed below, their first issue is on the subject of renters and food growing. Thanks Morgan and Merrin!

“More and more Australians are renting, and renting for longer. As wages fail to keep up with rising house prices, many young Australians are finding themselves priced out of the market, and instead renting properties or joining share houses. What do these changes mean for food growing on private land? Through our search for gardens to join the current program of open gardens that we have been jointly organising with Open Gardens Victoria, we were excited to find renters growing substantial food on their properties despite the lack of security. The rental gardeners had a number of interesting strategies for making their garden productive despite the temporary setting:

  • Alanjohn is growing in-ground at his house in Coburg and signed an memorandum of understanding with his landlord so that there wouldn’t be any issues with the changes when he vacates.
  • Alex and Julia in Clifton Hill have opted to grow a lot of their food in straw bales so that there is less work to do to return the property to its original state.
  • In order to add a beehive to her Northcote rental garden, Morgan bartered home-harvested honey with her landlord.
  • While many renters were managing tightly pruned fruit or espaliered trees in pots, Greg in Fawkner focussed on sharing the future garden by planting straight into the ground.”

If any readers are renters with clever gardening solutions for their spaces, Morgan and Merrin would love to hear from you! Email them.

Robin’s veggie growing tip of the month: watering errors

Recent high temperatures have highlighted that some people do not know the principles of protecting their gardens from extreme heat.

Imagine that you are a plant in a garden on a hot day. Would you prefer to be well hydrated before the heat hits or go into resuscitation mode when you are dehydrated, wilted or dying? Plants are just like us – they need to be fully hydrated before high heat and then re-hydrated afterwards. Many people make the error of watering only at the end of a hot day by which time their plants will have root damage, scorched leaves and sunburn, all of which is preventable. And just as we would wear a hat and clothing to protect our skin, plants need a protective covering of mulch around their roots and shade cloth or other covering (sheets, umbrellas etc) overhead to reduce water loss.

Under-watering is also a significant error and ultimately a significant waste of water too. Any time that a plant wilts, its roots are damaged (even if you water later and the plant seemingly recovers). Water close to the roots, directly onto the soil or mulch, or under the drip line of trees, taking into account how exposed to the sun the plant is, its size and whether it has extra water requirements. Identify which plant or plants in your garden wilt first and use this as a barometer of the dryness of your soil. Dig down and check the moisture content if you are not sure.

If you are watering a pot, it needs sufficient water to drip out the bottom which is where the roots will be. If it doesn’t drip, it is too dry. Even a small pot – say a 7cm tube which herbs are often grown in – needs at least a cup (250ml), and more if it is at all pot-bound. If you are not sure if you have watered a pot sufficiently, gently tap the plant out of the pot and check how far the water has penetrated. Often, it will be just the top centimetre or two and nowhere near the roots.

Finally, remember that it is the roots, not the leaves, which deliver water to the whole plant. The roots absorb water and channel it via the stem and branches to the leaves, flowers and fruits.

Read Robin’s previous article on the art of watering. Read all of Robin’s tips

Marina interviews Stuart and Christine Rodda, from Eltham

Whether you realise it or not, you already know quite a lot about the Roddas’ garden. This is because Stuart frequently contributes to this newsletter on issues relating to their soil (I recently collated these various contributions into a page on our website entitled Stuart on soil). Now you can learn even more because Marina has been to visit their garden and interview them. Here’s how Marina introduces her interview write up: “There are lots of different plantings in a large area like a grassed amphitheatre spanning a valley, a little over an acre in area. There is a lot of sun coming onto the central veggie beds at the bottom of the valley. There is also a frog bog down there that dries up in summer, just next to the veggie beds … This ‘soak’ area has been fantastic for growing veggies and allowing deep, fertile, friable, dark soil to be created here. The soil is at least 50cm deep, has the Eltham clay under it, and hardly ever gets totally dry … Many people in Eltham live on slopes of poor clay with lots of trees and find it difficult to grow food, so I was very impressed with what Stuart has managed to do with terracing, his choice of site, and how the clay has been used to keep water on the property.” Read the full interview.

If this has whetted your appetite, Stuart and Christine are having an open garden event on Saturday, 9th February, 11am-midday.

Finally, one of my jobs is finding people for Marina and Judy to visit and interview. Would you be prepared to be interviewed? Do you know someone who you think it would be good for us to interview? Email me.

An interesting offer if you live near Eltham

Andre Obradovic has a quarter acre veggie garden in central Eltham. He wants to share this garden with someone that has no space or needs more space and knows what they are doing. You help to grow the produce and then share in the harvest. Six 6*1.5 metre beds, 2 straw bale beds, fruit trees and a large chicken run. No chemicals. If interested, email Andre.

Local food in the news

The food garden at Murundaka in Heidelberg Heights was the subject of an article in The Age.

An oyster mushroom recipe

Matthew Robison, from Melbourne Gourmet Mushrooms, has submitted an oyster mushroom recipe.

There are now around 250 recipes in the recipe section of our website from around 50 different authors (see the list of authors bottom right on the website page). It would be good if more people submitted recipes. If nothing else, it is a chance for you to have an internet presence, particularly if you have an unusual name; for example, google Marjatta Jovmakka. Just email me with your recipes.

What seeds to plant in February

Here is a list (see the planting guide for more detail):

Warm season veggies

Beans Sweetcorn
Cool season veggies

Broccoli Brussels sprouts Cauliflower
Leafy greens

Lettuce Mustard greens Silverbeet
Roots

Beetroot Carrot Onion Potato Radish Shallot
Other

Chives Fennel Leeks Parsley

In principle, you can start planting some of the brassicas (broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower) but, given the weather, perhaps it would be better to wait until March.

Which link was clicked most times in the last newsletter?

Richard Rowe’s article on water smart gardening.

Gardening quote of the month

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The next best time is today.” A Chinese proverb. Read all the quotes.

Proverb of the month

Sour grapes. Meaning: acting meanly after a disappointment. The phrase originates from Aesop’s fable, The Fox and the Grapes, in which the fox isn’t able to reach the grapes and therefore declares them to be sour. Aesop lived around 600 BCE and his fables were originally oral only, leaving room for multiple written variants in later years. Here is the entire fable as written down by someone called Phaedrus in Roman times: “Driven by hunger, a fox tried to reach some grapes hanging high on the vine but was unable to, although he leaped with all his strength. As he went away, the fox remarked ‘Oh, you aren’t even ripe yet! I don’t need any sour grapes.’ People who speak disparagingly of things that they cannot attain would do well to apply this story to themselves.” In Scandinavian countries, they apparently say sour rowanberries since grapes cannot be grown there.

Of the 120 or so Aesop fables, only two others appear to have any connection with food. One is The Fly that fell into the Soup: “I have eaten, I have drunk, I have taken a bath; if I die, what do I care?” The other is The Goose that laid the Golden Eggs: “A cottager and his wife had a Hen that laid a golden egg every day. They supposed that the hen must contain a great lump of gold in its inside and, in order to get the gold, they killed her. Having done so, they found to their surprise that the hen differed in no respect from their other hens. The foolish pair, thus hoping to become rich all at once, deprived themselves of the gain of which they were assured day by day.“. Read all the proverbs.

Joke of the week

Teacher: what are the seasons? Student: salt, pepper, garlic … Read all the jokes.

New events – not cooking

Introduction to mindful eating and yoga workshop

What: Join licensed Am I Hungry facilitator and dietitian (APD) Tess Gardiner for an introduction to mindful eating workshop. Learn how to develop the effective thoughts and positive feelings necessary to make decisions about eating, physical activity and self-care that support optimal health. This inside-out approach changes thoughts and feelings first so that changes in behaviour will last. The evening will begin with a 60-minute yoga practice with physiologist Jacynta Annesley (owner of Align Health & Movement) followed by a light dinner and then finishing with the 90-minute mindful eating workshop.
When: Tuesday, 5th February, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Heidelberg Heights.
Cost: $40.
Bookings: by phone (0402 702794).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Devita Davison – FoodLab Detroit

What: Devita Davison is Executive Director of FoodLab Detroit. Hear Devita’s journey in building FoodLab Detroit. FoodLab is a non-profit organisation that provides low-resourced entrepreneurs with technical assistance, workshops, resources and skills needed to start and grow a strong values-based food business. Listen to Devita’s TED interview.
When: Sunday, 10th February, 10-11am.
Where: Alphington Farmers’ Market.
Cost: free.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Medicinal herbs workshop

What: Do you like to grow your own herbs? Would you like to find out how you can use them for medicinal purposes? Learn from Doris Pozzi how to use medicinal herbs, most of which can be grown locally and maintained in a home garden. When: Wednesday, 27th February, 6.30-8pm.
Where: Whittlesea Library.
Cost: free.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Other

For space reasons, descriptions of the following new events have had to be held over until next week.

New events – cooking

Ice cream making class (thermomix)

What: Learn how to use your thermomix to make a variety of ice creams: rich and creamy; dairy-free; sugar-free; and instant. You will sample each of the recipes. When: Tuesday, 12th February, 7.30-9pm. Where: Kilsyth. Cost: $21. Bookings: EventBrite. Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking for baby and toddler (thermomix)

What: Learn how your thermomix can help you provide nutritional meals for your young ones and how can you use it to look after yourself during the busy baby period. Includes recipes and food sampling. When: Tuesday, 5th March, 7.30-9pm. Where: Kilsyth. Cost: $21. Bookings: EventBrite. Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class – ‘lamb madness’

What: Enjoy 3 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: lamb couscous salad; spiced lamb cutlets; and honey white chocolate mousse. When: Thursday, 14th March, 7-9pm. Where: Gourmet Living, Templestowe. Cost: $42. Bookings: EventBrite. Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Other

For space reasons, descriptions of the following new events have had to be held over until next week.

Summary of upcoming events – not cooking

Over the next week
Over the next month

Summary of upcoming events – cooking

Over the next week
  • The Beet Retreat – healthy vegan cooking class (gluten free): Thursday, 31st January, 6.30-8.30pm.
  • No Waste Cook Club: Saturday, 2nd February, 10am-midday.
  • The Beet Retreat – eating vegan on a budget (4 hour): Sunday, 3rd February, midday-4pm.
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News January 23 2019

Jan 232019
 

Bedford Park Community Garden will be receiving substantial funding

At last Sunday's Sustainability Fair at Central Ringwood Community Centre, it was announced that the State and Maroondah Council will jointly fund the community centre and garden to the tune of $250,000(!). This will fully fund the centre as a sustainability hub as well as develop the community garden. Congratulations to newsletter reader Jess Ness, who has been instrumental in getting the funding. Near right is a picture of Jess (who is on the far right), together with various local dignitaries just after the announcement was made.

There were lots of other newsletter readers at the fair. Far right is a picture of two of them, Claire and Jenny, manning the Outer Eastern Permaculture Swap stand.

A new local producer of shortbread biscuits – The Farmers Yo Yo

The Farmers Yo Yo, who are based in Blackburn North, make yo-yo shortbread biscuits using all-natural, all-Australian ingredients. There are around 14 different flavours (including chocolate, coffee cream, lemon, mint slice, mocha, raspberry and vanilla). You can buy their yo-yos at Eltham Farmers’ Market – they have a stall on the 1st and 3rd Sundays but are also making a surprise appearance at next Sunday’s market (i.e. on 27th January). Read their Local Food Directory entry. Welcome Renee!

Want to help save Peppertree Place?

In our 15th August newsletter, we wrote about the imminent demise of Peppertree Place in Coburg and, in our subsequent 12th September newsletter, we wrote that it might have been saved. Well, it turns out that it all depends on whether or not they can cover the lease on the property. To this end, they have started a crowdfunding campaign.

Nillumbik Nursery is under new management

In mid-2018, Sarah Watson, newsletter reader and Wattle Glen resident, took over Nillumbik Nursery (235 Main Hurstbridge Road, between Diamond Creek and Hurstbridge) in partnership with Bulleen Art and Garden. There is a new range of both food plants & natives and the nursery now sports new colourful walls & garden sculptures. A fern room is being built and a palm corner is being planned. As Sarah says: “Our team – Felicity, Kate, Allison and Sarah – are sharing our love of plants and nature, encouraging healthy local food production, and passionately working to create a greener future for Nillumbik.” Sign up for their newsletter which, inter alia, entitles you to 5% off plants.

The Slow Food Melbourne Farmers’ Market is moving out of the area

The market on Saturday, 26th January at Abbotsford Convent will be the last Slow Food Melbourne Farmers’ Market before it moves to Spotswood. As announced on their blog, the Abbotsford Convent Foundation has appointed Melbourne Farmers Markets to operate a farmers’ market at the convent from February onwards. Slow Food Melbourne published a Facebook post on the subject which has attracted hundreds of comments and shares; that post gave a link to an article which discussed some of the history, but that article has since been deleted.

Organic Fix in Eltham is selling more local products

You can now buy Healthybake’s bread and Offaly Good Food’s pate at Organic Fix in Eltham. This moves Organic Fix into 3rd equal position in our league table of local sellers of local produce.

The annual Home Harvest Picnic is going to happen

The annual Home Harvest Picnic will be held at Edendale on Sunday, 31st March. More info next week.

Water-smart gardening tips

Read this page on the ABC News website for newsletter reader Richard Rowe’s tips on being a water-smart gardener. Richard was also interviewed on ABC Radio Melbourne.

Fun facts: avocados

What is the purpose of fruit?

As we have discussed before, grasshopper, the purpose of most fruit is to be eaten by an animal who, at a later time and hopefully elsewhere, excretes the seeds that were contained within the fruit and thus helps the plant to disperse.

What animal could possibly excrete an avocado seed (aka pit)?

Avocado trees are native to Central America. The largest frugivores in Central America are tapirs. According to a 2013 paper entitled Frugivory and seed dispersal by tapirs, the maximum size of seed that a tapir can excrete is around 2cm in diameter. Avocado pits are typically 5cm or more in diameter. So, the answer is not tapirs!

According to a 2009 paper entitled Using dung bolus diameter for age estimation in an unstudied elephant population in Udzungwa Mountains, Tanzania, elephant dung can be up to 18cm in diameter and so elephants could presumably excrete an avocado pit. But there are no elephants in Central America, and never have been. So, the answer is not elephants!

Rather, the answer is apparently megafauna which have now gone extinct, such as giant ground sloths (genus Megatherium).

Given the demise of the megafauna, how do avocado trees disperse nowadays?

Without human assistance, they can’t. In other words, the avocado is ‘an evolutionary anachronism’ which is no longer able to manage its seed dispersal.

How can I find out more?

Read the discussion on the Smithsonian website.

Or if, like Donald Trump, you prefer to get your information by watching rather than by reading, watch and listen to a video of someone called Connie Barlow singing a song entitled Ghosts of Evolution (which is actually worth watching).

Bonus factoid: in researching this little article, I happened to find out that one of the most expensive coffees in the world is made from coffee beans that have been consumed and then excreted by elephants – see Wikipedia. You can buy this coffee online.

Read other fun facts.

Which link was clicked most times in the last newsletter?

The graphic of the current stallholder schedule at Eltham Farmers’ Market – see picture right.

Joke of the week

Why didn’t the butter take the part in the new movie? Because it didn’t like the roll it was offered.

The following is not food-related but is too good not to include (sing along to the tune of Stuck in the Middle with You by Stealers Wheel):

Trump to the left of me.
Brexit to the right.
Eire I am.
Stuck in the middle with EU.

Read all the jokes.

New events – not cooking

For some time, the calendar on the website has drawn a distinction between cooking events and non-cooking events. I’ve now decided to make that same separation in the newsletter. So, the non-cooking events are discussed below, with the cooking events in the following section.

Introduction to gardening (10 sessions)

What: Facilitator: Audrey Beard, East Preston Community Centre. Do you wish you could grow your own food but you’re not sure where to start? In this course, you will gain the practical skills necessary to
design, plant and maintain productive gardens. You will learn all the steps involved in creating a garden, including how to select the best site, through soil preparation, different types of growing methods, organic pest management, companion planting, irrigation, maintenance and harvesting.
When: Thursdays from 31st January to 4th April (10 weeks), 12.30-2.30pm.
Where: Span Community House, Thornbury.
Cost: $278 ($253 concession; $22 ACFE).
Bookings: by phone (9480 1364).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

GreenMe Brunswick tour

What: Facilitator: Visit the coolest sustainable projects in Brunswick East. From local roasters, urban beekeepers, colourful ethical design stores, devoted bike savers, dedicated organic food growers and bean-to-bar chocolate makers – dive into sustainability in all shapes and colours. Check out 4-5 green initiatives, taste delicious food, learn about handmade products and chat to the people behind the counters.
When: Saturday, 2nd February and again on Friday, 15th February, both 1-4pm.
Where: Brunswick East.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: 2nd February and 15th February.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Planning your winter veggie patch

What: This workshop will leave you feeling confident about what you can plant in March and beyond. It will give you new ideas on what you can grow and things to do in the garden over the cool season. To help solidify your knowledge, you will take a walk around the community garden to identify crops that are thriving, those that are struggling, and common problems.
When: Wednesday, 6th February, 6-7.30pm.
Where: Lygon Street Community Garden.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Growing community with social enterprise

What: Devita Davison, Executive Director of FoodLab Detroit will tell the story of the good food movement in Detroit, and the push to build a vibrant food economy in the wake of the decline of the automobile and other manufacturing industries. Devita will describe how the Foodlab Detroit has supported social enterprise to improve the health and social wellbeing of Detroit communities, and increase diversity and equity. She will share the case studies of diverse groups of local entrepreneurs, the skills and confidence they’ve developed through the Foodlab Detroit program, and the challenges they have overcome to establish food businesses and grow a more equitable food supply which honours identity and culture. Listen to Devita’s TED interview.
When: Thursday, 7th February, 10.30am-midday.
Where: Preston Town Hall.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Stuart and Christine’s garden

What: Stuart and Christine have developed their 1 acre lot, on a sub-divided former orchard, into a home with a large variety of food producing plants. Starting with a thin layer of poor Eltham soil, they have brought in many soil improvers including minerals, manures, lignite (brown coal), sawdust, charcoal and coffee grounds to create a deep fertile soil for vegetable growing. They use low cost, low maintenance ‘chemical-free’ techniques based on permaculture ideas to get good yields of healthy food, and to maintain soil fertility with a view to minimising future external inputs, for example by growing green manure in winter, recycling waste on-site, and minimising leaching of nutrients by minimising runoff. Well behaved children under direct parental supervision are welcome free of charge.
When: Saturday, 9th February, 11am-midday.
Where: Eltham.
Cost: $10.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Vegan vegastation yumcha!

What: A South-East Asian vegan-only degustation event at Rice Paper Scissors. The ticket price includes at least 10 rounds of tasty plant-based delights. Choose your start time.
When: Saturday, 9th February and again on Saturday, 9th March, both 11.30am-4.30pm.
Where: Fitzroy.
Cost: $45.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Edible weeds of Melbourne

What: Facilitator: Monique Miller. Taste the edible weeds of Melbourne. Eating weeds, or ‘plants in the wrong place’, is potentially an important part of an energy-decent future, as we creatively respond to the changing climate. Knowing which weeds and wild plants are edible is empowering, as it helps people become self-sufficient and resilient with their food choices.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 10am-midday.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: $15 ($5 concession).
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The art of watering

What: This workshop will teach participants how to assess the watering needs of vegetables, herbs, fruit trees and bushes, and plants in pots. Both under watering and over watering are a waste of water, so it’s important to understand how much water is required for plants to grow healthily whilst conserving as much water as possible.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 3-4.30pm.
Where: Macleod Organic Community Garden.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Farmer to table dinner

What: The dinner comprises 3 share-style courses which highlight 3 ethical local producers. The evening will include a panel Q&A with the three producers. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase at the bar.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 7-10pm.
Where: CERES.
Cost: $65.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Weed cold composting

What: Facilitator: Marina Bistrin. Learn all the secrets of weed composting. Weeds are nutrient-dense and many can be easily cold composted without re-growing. Many households cannot easily amass enough material to create a hot compost; instead, you can build up a slow compost with small amounts of food and garden waste, using additions saved from landfill, such as coffee husks and grounds.
When: Sunday, 17th February, 9.30-10am.
Where: Eltham Farmers’ Market.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Weed cold composting

What: Facilitator: Marina Bistrin. Learn all the secrets of weed composting. Weeds are nutrient-dense and many can be easily cold composted without re-growing. Many households cannot easily amass enough material to create a hot compost; instead, you can build up a slow compost with small amounts of food and garden waste, using additions saved from landfill, such as coffee husks and grounds.
When: Sunday, 17th February, 11.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Alphington Farmers’ Market.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Pop up garlic farmer information evening

What: Farmer Incubator will be running its ‘Pop up Garlic Farmers’ program commencing in March. All aspiring sustainable farmers are invited to go along to meet the team and previous participants. This event will introduce and discuss the farming opportunities that this program presents.
When: Tuesday, 19th February, 5-8pm.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Backyard beekeeping with Benedict Hughes

What: What you will learn: an understanding of the beekeeping season and the guidelines for effective and safe hive management; the best ways to get started as a beekeeper; and extracting honey. What you will get: the practical skills and know-how to get started and/or continue on your beekeeping journey; and the opportunity to taste and purchase honey fresh from a hive. This is an introductory course to beekeeping to provides you with an insight into the skills and experience required to operate a backyard beehive, whether you are interested to start on a beekeeping journey or already have some experience.
When: Tuesday, 19th February, 6-7.30pm.
Where: Thornbury.
Cost: $47.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Seed saving

What: The event will cover all the basics of plant selection, pollination, harvesting, drying, cleaning and storing seeds for common vegetable varieties.
When: Tuesday, 19th February, 6.30-8.30pm.
Where: Fitzroy North.
Cost: $40.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Weed composting and veggie swap

What: Facilitator: Marina Bistrin. Learn all the secrets of weed composting. Weeds are nutrient-dense and many can be easily cold composted without re-growing. Many households cannot easily amass enough material to create a hot compost; instead, you can build up a slow compost with small amounts of food and garden waste, using additions saved from landfill, such as coffee husks and grounds. Also, participate in a veggie swap.
When: Sunday, 24th February, 10.30am-midday.
Where: Watsonia Neighbourhood House.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Growing your veggies

What: This workshop will guide you through the basics including soil and plant nutrition, pest control, traditional and no-dig veggies patches, and easy herbs and veggies to ensure first time success. Discover low- or no-cost organic methods and how to growing pots for renters and people with courtyards or balconies.
When: Tuesday, 26th February, 6.30-8.30pm.
Where: Fitzroy North.
Cost: $40.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The practical beekeeper

What: Are you already started in beekeeping but want to know more? Maybe you are just looking to learn more about how to manage a beehive as part of your permaculture setup. This workshop will provides you with an insight into the skills and experience required to safely and effectively manipulate a beehive and carrying out general management practices. It will also provide you with a broad understanding of the history and biology of a colony of European honey bees. At the end of the course, participants will know what steps need to be taken to get started in beekeeping.
When: Wednesday, 6th March, 1-2.30pm.
Where: Rosanna Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Make beeswax wraps

What: Participants will learn how to make and maintain their own beeswax wraps for keeping food fresh and hygienic without the use of single-use plastics such as cling-wrap. This is a hands-on workshop where participants will make their own ready-to-use beeswax wraps and learn skills that are transferable to the home environment.
When: Wednesday, 13th March, 1-3pm.
Where: Rosanna Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

RetroSuburbia – David Holmgren presents ‘Aussie Street’

What: The evening will start with David Holmgren, co-originator of the permaculture concept, presenting ‘Aussie Street’, a speculative eco-narrative, seen through the microcosm of four adjacent houses and the humans living in them, which shows the changing face of the suburbs over the last 50 years and the effects of change according to needs/ population/ economy. This will be followed by a musical interlude. David will then be joined by a panel consisting of Su Dennett, Kat Lavers and Christopher Anderson to discuss “Putting Retrosuburbia into practice in your home and in your life” and respond to questions from the audience.
When: Thursday, 14th March, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Brunswick.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Success with seedlings

What: Facilitated by Olwyn Smiley from The Backyard Vegetable. You will look at some strategies for successful propagation whilst also giving a second life to ‘waste’ materials.
When: Saturday, 16th March, 2-3.30pm.
Where: Central Ringwood Community Centre.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Bees wax workshop

What: You will learn how to make and maintain their own beeswax wraps for keeping food fresh and hygienic without the use of single use plastics such as cling-wrap. You will leave with two ready-to-use wraps.
When: Thursday, 21st March, 10am-midday.
Where: Whittlesea Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

New events – cooking

Cooking for all abilities (10 sessions)

What: Facilitator: Catherine Donnelley. Learn cooking skills in this hands on and demonstration class. Using fresh seasonal ingredients and garden produce, learn planning, preparation and presentation skills. This class is supported by program staff as well as an experienced cook.
When: Tuesdays from 29th January to 2nd April (10 weeks), 10am-12.30pm.
Where: Span Community House, Thornbury.
Cost: $408 ($371 concession; $67 ACFE).
Bookings: by phone (9480 1364).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Fermenting for the future

What: Facilitator: Monique Miller. This workshop will introduce you to the world of lacto-fermentation, a method for the preservation of vegetables, dairy, and even bread doughs, using beneficial bacteria. The ancient process of fermentation creates nutritious and delicious foods that do not require refrigeration. Learning to ferment foods at home can help reduce food waste and energy usage. You will go home with their own products to ferment at home.
When: Saturday, 9th February, 10am-12.30pm.
Where: Northcote.
Cost: $50 ($25 concession).
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Thermomix lunchbox workshop

What: Learn how to make some easy lunches and snacks in the Thermomix. They will also be taking a look at the cookkey and cookidoo. There will be samples to taste and the children can stay entertained at their playdough station.
When: Sunday, 10th February, 2-4pm.
Where: Chirnside Park.
Cost: $20.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking for healthy minds (8 sessions)

What: Facilitator: Catherine Donnelley. Experience and enjoy demonstration and hands-on cooking, sharing recipes and using seasonal produce. This class is for participants living with or recovering from a mental health illness, have a mild disability or a long term condition. Family carers looking for a social connection are also encouraged to attend. HACC-PYP and CHSP supported.
When: Tuesdays from 12th February to 2nd April (8 weeks), 1.30-3.30pm.
Where: Span Community House, Thornbury.
Cost: free.
Bookings: by phone (9480 1364).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Thermomix Flavours of India – demonstration-style cooking class

What: This class will explore traditional and contemporary recipes from the Thermomix Flavours of India cookbook and recipe chip, and will show you how to make them confidently in your Thermomix. The demonstration will include: chai masala tea or lassi; paneer; garlic paste; garam masala powder; tandoori paste; chicken korma; coriander chilli chutney; rava payasam; tarka dal; steamed white fish with tomato and Indian spices; garlic and coriander naan; and paneer makhani. All menu items will be available for tasting.
When: Friday, 1st March, 6.30-8.30pm.
Where: Chirnside Park.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The age-old art of preserving

What: This workshop will give you some confidence to try different styles of home preserving. You will be concentrating on making jams with seasonal and frozen fruit. Bring your apron, your questions and your appetite. All materials supplied.
When: Wednesday, 20th March, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Box Hill North.
Cost: $55.
Bookings: by phone (9899 7660).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events – not cooking

The non-cooking events are discussed below, with the cooking events in the following section.

Over the next week
Over the next month

Summary of upcoming events – cooking

Over the next week
  • Become a junior chocolatier: Wednesday, 23rd January, 45 minute sessions starting at 9am, 10am, 11am, midday, 1.30pm and 2.30pm.
  • The Beet Retreat – healthy vegan cooking class (gluten free): Thursday, 24th January, 6.30-8.30pm.
  • Cooking for all abilities (10 sessions): Tuesdays from 29th January to 2nd April (10 weeks), 10am-12.30pm.
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News January 16 2019

Jan 152019
 

A new local food producer – Eastaway Food Products

Macleod-based Eastaway Food Products are a new startup who make small batch jams, chutneys, cordials and jam drop biscuits. At markets, they also serve fresh sodas (made with the cordials). They choose playful flavour combinations such as saffron & strawberry cordial and plum & rosemary jam. You can buy their products at Eltham Farmers’ Market (on the 1st and 3rd Sundays), Kingsbury Drive Community Market or Warrandyte Riverside Market. Go and talk to them at next Sunday’s Eltham Farmers’ Market! Welcome Larissa and Aaron!

There are now 10 local makers of jams in the Local Food Directory.

Eltham Farmers’ Market stallholder schedule

As I was manning the information marquee last Sunday, I thought that I would produce a handout of the current stallholder schedule – in other words, which stallholders typically appear on which Sundays. See picture right – it is A4 shape so you can print it off.

News about local food

Delicut Deli, the deli in St Helena, is no more.

Fun facts: figs

What do you think a fig flower looks like? The answer is that you probably don’t know even though you have probably both seen them and eaten them. How come?

The flowers of a fig tree are actually inside the figs. Indeed, all that squishiness inside of a fig is basically flowers. So, a fig is not a fruit; rather, it is something called a syconium (“an enlarged, fleshy, hollow receptacle with multiple ovaries on the inside surface”).

So, if the flowers of a fig are inaccessible to normal pollinators, such as bees, how do they get pollinated?

If you look closely at a fig, you will see a small hole in the bottom of it. Tiny wasps (called fig wasps) crawl in through those holes and do the pollination.

What happens to the wasps after they have done the pollination?

They die in situ.

And what happens to the bodies of the dead wasps?

You eat them when you eat a fig. All the black dots in the picture are dead fig wasps.

For more information, watch this video.

Yuk!

Luckily for the squeamish, some varieties of fig do not require pollination. And most of the figs bought in shops will be from these varieties. But, at least according to Louis Glowinski in this book The Complete Book of Fruit Growing in Australia, the best tasting figs are from those varieties which do require pollination.

Nerdy aside: it is only the female fig wasps that do the pollination. The wingless male fig wasps are borne, impregnate their sisters, drill little holes in the skin of the fig for their sisters to escape by, and then die. The winged female fig wasps are borne, get impregnated by their brothers, get covered in pollen as they leave through the holes created by their brothers, enter another fig through its base, lay their eggs, and then die. So, whilst a male fig wasp only sees one fig in its life, a female fig wasp sees two.

Which link was clicked most times in the last newsletter?

The picture of native bee activity in my insect hotel – see picture right.

Stop press! At least 7 resin bees (plus a mud wasp) have been working on their holes this week. See the example bottom image in the picture right. All bar 2 of the holes have now been re-plugged. It seems to take a bee around three days, working all day, to go from completely empty hole to plugged hole.

Joke of the week

What happened to the snack bar that was too close to the Synchrotron? They created ‘fission chips’.

Read all the jokes.

New events

No Waste Cook Club

What: This workshop will help you to reduce food waste at home. You will cook a vegetarian lunch together and learn to save money, get creative with veggies, be more adaptable in the kitchen, and learn about the wonders of compost. If you are not able to attend the workshop in the morning, you are welcome to share a free lunch with them afterwards at 1pm.
When: Saturday, 2nd February, 10am-midday.
Where: North Fitzroy Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Farm play

What: For families with children aged 2-4. Learn about the life of plants, animals, and their interactions with the environment, cultivating wonder and wisdom from nature play. The activities will vary with the seasons, incorporating sensory play with seeds, leaves, crafts and music, as well as the micro world of mini beasts and soil. Led by Sofia Sabbagh.
When: Every Tuesday from 5th February to 2nd April, each 10am-midday.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: $15 per session ($12.50 for 2nd child).
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Bush skills and kids farming

What: For children aged 5-13. Learn about the life of plants, animals, and their interactions with the environment, cultivating wonder and wisdom from nature play. The activities will vary with the seasons, incorporating seed saving, planting, weeding, transplanting, herbal remedies, paint making, puppet making, finding grubs, climbing trees, making shelters, tying knots, spotlighting, bird watching, sensory play, singing and fire-side story telling. Led by Sofia Sabbagh.
When: Every Tuesday from 5th February to 2nd April, each 4-5.30pm.
Where: Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg.
Cost: $15 per session ($12.50 for 2nd child).
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cook Indian by the creek

What: Menu – daal tadka and spiced rice.
When: Friday, 8th February, 6-7.30pm.
Where: Diamond Creek.
Cost: $45.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cook Indian by the creek

What: Menu – butter chicken and spiced rice.
When: Friday, 22nd February, 6-7.45pm.
Where: Diamond Creek.
Cost: $45.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cook Indian by the creek – vegan special

What: Menu – aloo gobi and aubergine masala.
When: Friday, 1st March, 6-7.45pm.
Where: Diamond Creek.
Cost: $60.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Mozzarella and ricotta cheesemaking workshop

What: What you will learn: how to coagulate milk using acid and rennet; how to stretch and shape mozzarella; and how to make whole milk ricotta. What you will get: recipes and the essential techniques of cheesemaking; a tasting of the cheeses made; notes about the major steps of cheesemaking and resources for quality milk and supplies; and a 20% discount on cheesemaking kits and equipment purchased in conjunction with the workshop. Join Jacqueline Bender as she demystifies the art of making two of Italy’s most beloved cheeses. You will make mozzarella and ricotta from bio-dynamic milk (or organic if unavailable) to be eaten at the conclusion of the class. Ricotta will be made from whole milk (paneer style), which you will roll in home-made dukkah (chopped nuts and spices). Participants will be limited to 8 to maintain an informal interactive format.
When: Sunday, 3rd March, midday-2.30pm.
Where: Bee Sustainable, Brunswick East.
Cost: $98.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cook Indian by the creek

What: Menu – chicken vindaloo.
When: Friday, 8th March, 6-7.45pm.
Where: Diamond Creek.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Sourdough bread workshop

What: What you will learn: ways to create and look after your own Sourdough starter culture, flour to use for the best nutrition and results; ways to knead sticky high hydration dough for a more authentic sourdough loaf, equipment needed to produce a great looking and tasting sourdough tin loaf at home; and ways to bake sourdough bread using a bread tin in a home oven, bread dough looks and feels like at its various stages of preparation and development. What you will get: comprehensive workshop notes; sourdough starter culture; and a discount on a professional quality bread tin. Join Rick of The Life We Want as he demonstrates this age old process and introduces you to the equipment and skills required to get started baking at home. Participants will be limited to 8 to maintain an informal interactive format.
When: Saturday, 9th March, 9-11.30am.
Where: Bee Sustainable, Brunswick East.
Cost: $99.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Edible weeds

What: What you will learn: do’s and don’ts of fermenting beverages; and the process of fermenting beverages. What you will get: recipes to take home; a jun scoby to take home; and samples in class of all three beverages. Presenter: Monique Miller. You will learn the basics of fermenting kombucha and jun kvass (a relative of kombucha) at home.
When: Monday, 11th March, 10am-midday.
Where: CERES.
Cost: $40.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Pickle and preserving

What: Presented by Angela Ryan. Learn to preserve seasonal produce by making pickles, relishes and sauces. These techniques are suitable for most fruit and veggies. They will make some on the night for you to taste and maybe even take home a small jar.
When: Tuesday, 12th March, 7-8.30pm.
Where: Hawthorn Community House.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cook Indian by the creek – Holi special

What: Menu – snacks(bhajji/pakodas).
When: Friday, 15th March, 6-7.45pm.
Where: Diamond Creek.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: by email.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Veggie gardening for beginners

What: What you will learn: how to set up and prepare a vegetable garden; how to select, plant and care for crops; and how to grow veggies in the ground, in raised beds and in pots. Presented by Nicole Griffiths. This class will teach you everything you need to know to grow delicious produce in your own backyard. They will cover all of the veggie gardening basics, from setting up your patch to harvesting.
When: Saturday, 16th March, 9.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $55.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News January 9 2019

Jan 092019
 

NERP is apparently re-starting

Lucinda Flynn has written in: “Calling all local permaculture enthusiasts: NERP (North East Ranges Permaculture) is going to be re-invigorated! Some of you will remember when it was very active; if you don’t, it was a local interest group for members of Permaculture Victoria who live in North East Melbourne – Greensborough, Hurstbridge, Eltham, St Andrews, Warrandyte and surrounding areas. The group is still re-forming so it has no specific format yet but will most likely be for local members to meet, share skills, seeds, ideas and labour, and hopefully spread our enthusiasm for permaculture around our area. If you are interested in joining us, please email me (lucinda@goinggreensolutions.com.au).”

A new local grower of exotic mushrooms – Melbourne Gourmet Mushrooms

Melbourne Gourmet Mushrooms, from Reservoir, grow oyster mushrooms (pink, white and blue), shiitake and lion’s mane. They sell these mushrooms at farmers’ markets, including Alphington Farmers’ Market,Coburg Farmers’ Market and Eltham Farmers’ Market (2nd and 4th Sundays).

As discussed in my guide to local mushrooms, there are now 4 mushroom producers in our Local Food Directory and all 4 are stallholders at Eltham Farmers’ Market.

Native bees can take as long as a year to emerge

In January 2018, native bees visited my insect hotel and filled 8 of the holes (at a rate of roughly 1 hole per day for 8 days) – see top picture right. Over the coming months, nothing further happened (well, actually lots happened involving crickets, spiders, flies and ants, but that’s another story). In November, I happened to meet Katrina Forstner from Buzz and Dig and asked her why nothing had ever hatched. She advised me to wait until the summer. Sure enough, last week (and again at a rate of roughly 1 hole per day), all of the holes became unplugged and (presumably/hopefully) young native bees have emerged – see middle picture right.

Stop press! Yesterday (Tuesday), 3 or 4 days after the last hole was unplugged, I saw multiple native bees visiting the unplugged holes, going in both forwards and backwards repeatedly, and scrabbling around whilst in there. Presumably/hopefully laying eggs. See bottom picture right, which is a closeup of one of the holes. I sent this photo to Museums Victoria for identification and within the hour(!) they replied to say that it is a resin bee, genus Megachile. Or, as my wife said, what a cutie!

The 2018 Golden Seedling awards – more aftermath

Robin Gale-Baker has written in: “I was thrilled was to see the Lifetime Award go to Bruce Plain. Bruce is an outstanding person in the Banyule Community and shy of recognition (as we all know), but his contribution is ‘above and beyond’ and none of the community gardens in Banyule would be where they are today without Bruce’s generosity and wisdom.”

Every newsletter needs a good picture

Here’s a photo of some tomatoes by someone called Uli Westphal. It is one of a series of cultivar photos, each devoted to a particular veggie: beans, cabbages, capsicums, cucumbers, pears, potatoes, pumpkins, sweetcorn and tomatoes. Perhaps most extraordinarily, accompanying each photo, he gives a list of all the named varieties of that veggie; so, for example, for tomatoes, he lists around 19,000(!) varieties – if you don’t believe me, see the list!

Recycle your Nespresso pods

Karen Moad has written in to say that people can recycle their used Nespresso pods at Rivers of Yarrambat (at a drop bin at the front of the cafe).

Karen’s email led me to investigate what other drop off points exist in North East Melbourne. It turns out that there are 13 in total:

  • Briar Hill: Sweet Pea Florist, Shop 2, 111 Mountainview Road.
  • Clifton Hill: Terrace Gardens, 338 Queens Parade.
  • Croydon North: Scentsational Flowers, 9 Exeter Road.
  • Hawthorn: Budz Flowers, 211 Riversdale Road.
  • Ivanhoe: Gloriosa Garden, 14/149 Upper Heidelberg Road.
  • Kew: Dandelion Floral & Foliage Design, 242 High Street.
  • Kilsyth South: Colchester Nursery, 315-317 Colchester Road.
  • Lilydale: Jumping Jonquils Florist, Yarra Valley Shopping Centre, 311 Main Street.
  • Mooroolbark: Blooms on Brice, 10 Brice Avenue.
  • Thomastown: Giardino di Fiori, Shop 3/132 Alexander Avenue.
  • Wandin North: Wandin Florist, 384 Warburton Highway.
  • Yarra Glen: Flowers of Yarra Glen, 7D Bell Street.
  • Yarrambat: Rivers of Yarrambat, 28 Kurrak Road.

Which link was clicked most times in the last newsletter?

The A4-shaped picture of what leaves can look like when particular micro-nutrients are lacking.

Not food, but good

One of the many reasons for going to Eltham Farmers’ Market is the live music. And if the first market of the year is anything to go by, that music just got better: watch and listen to the SoleadQ trio at last Sunday’s market. Thanks to Chris Chapple for making the video.

The re-gifted salt and pepper shakers

Last Sunday, Warren took possession of the re-gifted salt and pepper shakers on behalf of his partner Isabella

Joke of the week

Why did the fruit bat eat the orange? Because it had appeal.

Read all the jokes.

New events

Summer fruit tree pruning

What: Facilitated by Justin Calverley. Many of us focus on winter as the best time to prune our fruit trees but some fruit trees benefit much more from summer pruning (e.g. stonefruit). Learn how to best care for your fruit trees for health and to maximise your yield for next season. Bring your gardening gloves, a hat and a pair of secateurs.
When: Saturday, 9th February, 9am-1pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $65.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Heritage apple tasting

What: Sample the seasonal flavours of the heritage apple collection at an apple tasting afternoon at 5pm. Around 15 varieties will be available for tasting. An orchard tour is included. All funds received go toward the maintenance and expansion of the collection.
When: Sunday, 24th February, 5-7pm.
Where: Petty’s Orchard, Templestowe.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Decorating kids cakes with Emelia Jackson

What: You will learn: how to bake the cake; how to make Swiss meringue buttercream; tips on decorations and watercolouring; tips on working with chocolate; and ideas of different childrens themes. Prosecco & nibbles on arrival, bruschetta & a piece of savoury tart along with cake for dessert.
When: Friday, 1st March, 7-9pm.
Where: Gourmet Living, Templestowe.
Cost: $91.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Preserving summer produce

What: Part demonstration, part hands-on workshop (and with tastings too), they will talk you through a range of preserving methods, from bottled tomatoes to preserved fruit and jams.
When: Sunday, 3rd March, 10am-1pm.
Where: Fitzroy High School.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Growing fruit and veggies in small spaces

What: What you will learn: which produce plants are suitable to grow in small areas; coping with shade and sun for produce growing; and how to make the most of any available space for growing produce. Presented by Angelo Eliades. Do you only have a small garden or no garden at all? Would you still like to grow your own food? This class will inspire you to get started. Topics will include fruit, vegetables and berries for small spaces, growing produce in pots and containers, maximising productivity in any size space and plant selection.
When: Thursday, 7th March, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class – Italian feast

What: Enjoy 3 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: beef tagliata; truffle penne pasta; and raspberry jam crostata.
When: Thursday, 7th March, 7-9pm.
Where: Gourmet Living, Templestowe.
Cost: $42.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events

Over the next week
Over the next month

View the complete calendar of upcoming events.

LFC News January 2 2019

Jan 012019
 

The 2018 Golden Seedling awards – the aftermath

Here’s what Whitehorse Urban Harvest said after reading about their award in the last newsletter: “Wow, thank you!! We’re really chuffed.” ‘Chuffed’ is a word which is clearly associated in some people’s minds with the Golden Seedling awards. For example: “we are very chuffed!” (Sustainable Macleod, 2016); “feeling doubly chuffed” (Paul Gale-Baker, 2017); and “we are not only chuffed but tickled pink” (St Johns Riverside Community Garden, 2017).

Only one person took up my offer to put forward nominations for a Golden Seedling award – Lily Angel wrote in: “I nominate Macleod community garden for the seedling award. We propagated hundreds of seedlings to sell to raise funds to run our garden. We also gave away hundreds of seedlings to community groups and members. We were part of the Macleod Christmas fair where we sold our seedlings. We gave away seedlings to people who donated to our Green Auction and other people who donated goods for our garden. For example, we donated seedlings to someone who donated pavers which we plan to use under our shelter. Hence our seedlings have been spread far and wide!”

ShareWaste

ShareWaste “connects people who wish to recycle their kitchen scraps with their neighbours who are already composting, worm-farming or keep chickens. Now you can divert waste from landfill while getting to know the people around you!“. It’s free and easy to use. You can either sign up to receive scraps (in which case, you can specify what scraps you do/don’t want to receive) or you can browse a map of ‘scrap receivers’ and choose who to offer scraps to. There are currently around 130 ‘scrap receivers’ from around North East Melbourne who have registered with the website.

I’ve briefly mentioned ShareWaste in the past but I haven’t given it much attention as no one has ever contacted me since I became a ‘scrap receiver’ a couple of years ago. But, prompted by Morgan Koegel from 3000acres, I’m now finding out that this is because of where I live (Eltham) and that things are much more active both westwards and southwards. For example, newsletter reader Katrina Forstner (Preston) receives scraps from around 30 households.

The re-gifting season has started!

First up is a set of salt and pepper shakers, where the salt container looks like a onion and the pepper container looks like a globe artichoke. Pick up in Eltham or at Eltham Farmers’ Market. If interested, email me. First come, first served.

If you have anything that you would like to re-gift, tell me. Anonymity guaranteed!

Got a coffee pod machine?

If so, you might be interested to know that re-usable coffee capsules exist and that one of the major suppliers of such capsules is local to us: Mitcham-based Creama Joe. (For those of you who prefer to get your information by video rather than by the printed word, click here.)

Micro-nutrients

The picture right is a useful summary of what leaves can look like when particular micro-nutrients are lacking. Plus it is A4 shape so you can print it off and stick it on your wall. Thanks to Greta Gillies for pointing out the original material.

Which link was clicked most times in the last newsletter?

Judy’s visit to Virginia Solomon’s garden.

Joke of the week

Why is an orange smart? Because it concentrates!

Read all the jokes.

New events

Bee hive tour

What: Your tour, led by Nathan Stewart, a professional Doreen-based beekeeper from Maya ‘Xala Honey, will include suiting up in protective gear, lighting a bee smoker, and spending two hours as real life beekeeper. Initially, Nathan will give you some tips on what to look for inside a hive including how to spot the Queen and where to look to potentially witness the birth of a new worker bee. Then, together you will lift the lid of a busy hive, watch bees at work creating honey, pull out a frame of honey ready for extraction, and get up close with more than 100,000 bees! After the lid is closed, you will sample some of the honey direct from the hives while enjoying a refreshing honey tonic.
When: Saturday, 12th January and Saturday, 9th February, both 10.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Rivers of Yarrambat.
Cost: $75 (plus various packages for families).
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Best of 2018 masterclass

What: What you will learn: taste your way through the The 3 Ravens range under the guidance of one of their brewery team; see behind the scenes of a fully functioning craft brewery; and learn The 3 Ravens approach to all styles of beer. Includes lunch.
When: Saturday, 19th January, 12.30-2.30pm.
Where: 3 Ravens Brewery, Thornbury.
Cost: $65 (includes lunch).
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Murundaka Cohousing Community’s garden

What: This communal garden is managed and maintained by the 20 households that are members of the Murundaka Cohousing Community. The space mixes productive and ornamental gardening with social spaces for the families who live at Murundaka. Chooks, vegetables, fruit trees, kids’ play areas and an extensive compost system all perform key roles.
When: Sunday, 20th January, 10-11am.
Where: Heidelberg Heights.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Local Sustainability Fair (Ringwood)

What: The food-related stalls will include: Ben’s Bees; Crema Joe; Eastern Region Food Co-op; Food is Free, Ringwood East; Sustainable Pathways; Tables Community Garden; and The Backyard Vegetable.
When: Sunday, 20th January, 10am-1pm.
Where: Central Ringwood Community Centre.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Clifton Hill rental productive garden

What: Alex and Julia’s garden has undergone a transformation over the past 18 months since they moved into this rental property. From a pile of dirt and weeds, they have attempted to transform every square metre into productive vegetable-growing land. In a confined space, they have endeavoured to create their own compost, improve the quality of the soil, grow (almost) everything from seed, build wicking beds, and incorporate straw bale gardening into the space.
When: twice on Saturday, 2nd February, at 10am and at midday.
Where: Clifton Hill.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Northcote rental productive paradise

What: Despite living in a rental property, Morgan and Christian have transformed their worker’s cottage backyard from just lawn into a fully productive patch complete with beehive, 11 metres of vertical gardening space and potted fruit trees.
When: twice on Saturday, 2nd February, at 10am and at midday.
Where: Northcote.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Fruit for your backyard workshop

What: Justin Calverley will discuss the variety of fruit that can be grown in the backyard, including the level of difficulty, size limitations and training habits. You will also explore the property’s sprawling food forest, orchard and berry patch.
When: Sunday, 3rd February, 10-11am.
Where: Reservoir.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summer fruit tree training workshop

What: Justin Calverley will cover the different pruning methods for common backyard fruit trees with a specific focus on things to do in summer. You’ll see espaliered trees, discussing pruning schedules and learn about managing common pests and diseases.
When: Sunday, 3rd February, 1-2pm.
Where: Reservoir.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

The art of espalier

What: What you will learn: growing espaliered fruit trees; different techniques to make the most of all available space for espalier; and improve your general gardening skills. Presented by Diana Cotter. “Go vertical” is the cry when garden space is limited. Gardening in two dimensions is what espalier is about and this class will cover the different types and how to get them started and then continue to train them into the desired shape. Topics covered include suitable fruit trees, pruning and training techniques.
When: Thursday, 7th February, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $55.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking for the Lunar New Year

What: Join Jean from Jean’s Asian Cooking as she demonstrates stir-fry Asian dishes to start the New Lunar Year. Followed by tastings.
When: Thursday, 7th February, 7-8.30pm.
Where: Mill Park Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: their website.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Indigenous plants for food/fibre/medicine

What: The Australian bush provided the first nations people all the food, fibre and medicine needed to thrive in this unique country. In this talk, Richard Rowe will introduce you to some of the local plants used by indigenous Australians and inspire you to grow them in your own garden. This class will cover: Aboriginal connection with the land; examples of food plants; examples of fibre plants; examples of medicine plants; examples of tool, shelter and fire plants; and tips on how to grow these plants at home.
When: Thursday, 7th February, 7-8.30pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Cooking master class – all about salads

What: Enjoy 4 tasting size courses cooked by chef Bek McMillan, from Gourmet Living, who will demonstrate step by step. All recipes are included. Menu: chilli prawn salad; smoked chicken & pesto salad; Mediterranean veg salad; and fresh berry salad.
When: Thursday, 7th February, 7-9pm.
Where: Gourmet Living, Templestowe.
Cost: $42.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Poppy’s patch

What: Poppy’s Patch started as a father/daughter project when Poppy was aged three. The family decided to use the space on the front lawn to start an edible garden – to not only grow food but teach her where food comes from. To save back-breaking work, they used the no-dig approach so that Poppy could directly layer it herself and learn about how soil is managed. This has helped transform rock-hard northern suburb clay soil into a rich organic loamy soil full of life and nutrients. More recent additions to the garden include multiple compost bins, worm farms and backyard chickens. To ensure Poppy can meaningfully participate in the garden, her father Chad has developed many strategies for her to work independently which he will share on this guided tour. Chad and Poppy’s Instagram account has become a fun documentation of their journey.
When: Saturday, 9th February, 10-11am.
Where: Reservoir.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Coburg secret garden

What: Two years ago, Alanjohn and Zena moved into their rental with the intention of demonstrating that this form of living doesn’t prevent you from utilising your space. They formed a Memorandum of Understanding with the owners and focused on keeping costs down and re-purposing materials. This tour will focus on demonstrating, not only what can be grown in a suburban rental plot, but how tastefully a grass lawn can be transformed into a fully functioning urban farm.
When: three times on Saturday, 9th February, at 10am, midday and 2pm.
Where: Coburg North.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Greg’s garden – productive and organic backyard

What: When Greg moved into the property in 2014, the backyard (around a quarter of an acre) was completely neglected. He saw the potential to exercise his green thumb and expand his passion for growing plants and vegetables. Today, the garden is an oasis full of natives, exotic and colourful plant varieties, as well as a thriving edible landscape. Greg draws on a vast array of new and traditional farming techniques to optimise soil health and create a diverse ecosystem.
When: three times on Saturday, 9th February, at 10am, midday and 2pm.
Where: Fawkner.
Cost: $15.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Green at Kathleen – preparing for autumn harvest

What: Everything you need to know to grow fresh produce at home in Autumn, including what and when to plant, feeding soil and gardening in pots.
When: Saturday, 9th February, 11.30am-1pm.
Where: Kathleen Syme Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Kombucha and gut health

What: Dr Gondalia will teach you all the ins and outs of creating great gut health. This workshop will cover the history of kombucha (a fermented probiotic drink), how to make it, what can go wrong with it and how to fix it. You will also learn how to make your brew healthier and more delicious with secondary fermentation flavours, and examine the health benefits such as the detoxifying, antioxidizing and anti-inflammatory effects. You can buy your very own ‘scoby’ with starter tea and a pack of black tea on the night – $30 (cash only).
When: Tuesday, 12th February, 7-8.30pm.
Where: Hawthorn Community House.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Food know how – zero waste cooking

What: Jessie Allice, from Leftover Lovers, will show you how to avoid food waste by creatively using what is on hand to make simple, yet delicious, every day meals. You will learn how to utilise stem-to-roots of your vegetables, work with scraps and save ingredients for later. You will make your own easy bread and a jar of infused goodies.
When: Wednesday, 13th February, 6-8pm.
Where: North Fitzroy Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summer fruit tree maintenance

What: What you will learn: how to prune to keep trees to a manageable size; how to prune to maximise fruit production in the coming season; and keeping espaliered shapes in check. Watch and ask questions of Angelo Eliades, as he prunes both traditionally shaped trees and espaliered varieties. Convention had us pruning deciduous fruit trees in winter but now the thinking is swinging to doing it straight after fruiting, in late summer or autumn. Techniques are slightly different, so it is wise to see the pruning in action on actual trees.
When: Thursday, 14th February, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Preparing your garden for Autumn harvest

What: While summer is at its peak and it’s too hot to go outside in the garden, spend some time planning your veggie garden for the autumn harvest. In this talk, Nicole Griffiths will cover autumn maintenance activities, what veggies to plant, and how to help them produce a bumper harvest. This class will cover: garden maintenance to prepare for next season plantings; what veggies to grow; tips on watering, feeding and caring for your plants; and pests to watch out for and how to manage them.
When: Thursday, 14th February, 7-8.30pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summer preserves

What: What you will learn: how to preserve fruit and vegetables for use in the future; how to bottle preserves; and the selection and sterlisation of jars. Presented by Lucy Marasco. Join Lucy to learn the basics of preserving, including the importance of sterilisation techniques, as well as the opportunity to try out some traditional and modern preserving recipes.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 9.30am-12.30pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $55.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Getting started with sourdough

What: Have you ever wanted to bake sourdough bread at home? It’s easier than you think. In this session, you will explore the history of bread making in this age-old process, the basics of making sourdough, equipment needed, and making your very own starter culture.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 10.30-11.30am.
Where: Brunswick Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Attracting native bees

What: Katrina Forstner, from Buzz and Dig, will introduce you to the amazing world of native bees and how to attract them into your garden as valuable pollinators for flowers and edibles. The workshop will cover methods for pollination and planning for bee habitat, including bee-attracting plants and how to encourage urban biodiversity. Along with a garden tour and display of ‘bee hotels’, attendees will each make a bee hotel using recycled materials.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 10-11.30am.
Where: Preston.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Composting at home workshop

What: Through the website ShareWaste, Katrina Forstner processes scraps from around 30 households, all on her small Preston block. In this workshop, Katrina will share her compost system and show you the tips and tricks to succeed with compost in your own home. She’ll talk through different compost methods, the best materials for compost and common problems.
When: Saturday, 16th February, 12.30-2pm.
Where: Preston.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Turkish cooking demonstration

What: Learn to prepare traditional Turkish cheese and minced meat pide. Take the recipe to try at home.
When: Monday, 18th February, 7-8pm.
Where: Coburg Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Growing bountiful harvests in small spaces

What: Karen Sutherland, from Edible Eden Design, will walk you through the best ways to grow food in small spaces. The session will cover suitable containers, plant varieties and sunshine requirements for your small area, whether that is a patch, courtyard, planter box or balcony.
When: Wednesday, 20th February, 6.15-8pm.
Where: Collingwood Childrens Farm, Abbotsford.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Tomato relish workshop

What: Not sure what to do with all those tomatoes? Learn from Marie, from Rie’s Kitchen, how to make a great relish for the family to enjoy.
When: Thursday, 21st February, 11am-midday.
Where: Diamond Valley Library.
Cost: free.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Healthy productive compost and worms

What: What you will learn: the importance of compost for soil health; how to fix common composting problems; and setting up and looking after a worm farm. Presented by Sarah Hardgrove. Learn how to make great compost, the essential ingredient for a thriving and healthy garden. Also look at worm farms and Bokashi as other options. They will also show you how to make a DIY worm farm using recycled products.
When: Thursday, 21st February, 6.30-9pm.
Where: Bulleen Art and Garden.
Cost: $50.
Bookings: WeTeachMe.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Introduction to permaculture (two sessions)

What: Facilitator: Donna Livermore. Developed by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren, permaculture (permanent agriculture) is a whole system approach to ecological planning and design for sustainable living. This workshop, spread over two weekends, will be beneficial to both those new to the concept of permaculture and for those thinking of undertaking a permaculture design course. You will be introduced to permaculture and gain a basic understanding of the principles and design methods associated with permaculture.
When: Saturday, 23rd February and Sunday, 24th February, both 10am-4pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $120 for the two days.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Brewers Feast Festival

What: Brewers Feast is a boutique craft beer and food festival, made by beer and food lovers for beer and food lovers. It will feature around 20 breweries (including cider, wine, fresh juice and homemade lemonade as well as beer). There will also be food and live music. Throughout the day, there will be craft beer education classes, exploring the tastes and flavours of beer pairing with food, cheese, confectionery and other foods. Enjoy free samples while learning more about your beer.
When: Saturday, 23rd February, 11.30am-8pm and Sunday, 24th February, 11am-5pm.
Where: Abbotsford Convent.
Cost: $25-59.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: their website.

No waste cooking workshop

What: Learn how to be creative with veggies and more adaptable in the kitchen so you can save money and reduce food waste. Presented by Open Table.
When: Sunday, 24th February, 10am-2pm.
Where: Melbourne Girls’ College.
Cost: free.
Bookings: EventBrite.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Seed saving workshop at The Plummery

What: Learn Kat Lavers’ tips for harvesting and saving seeds ready for the years to come. Also, explore Kat’s garden.
When: Sunday, 24th February, starting at 10am.
Where: Northcote.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Preserving your harvest workshop at The Plummery

What: Learn Kat Lavers’ tips and tricks for preserving with a focus on fruit. Also, explore Kat’s garden and walk-in pantry.
When: Sunday, 24th February, starting at 1pm.
Where: Northcote.
Cost: $30.
Bookings: TryBooking.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Introduction to horticulture – 9 session course

What: 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!), 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.
When: every Monday for 9 weeks, starting 25th February, 9.30am-3pm.
Where: Edendale.
Cost: $99 for all 9 sessions.
Bookings: by phone (9433 3744).
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Taste of Malaysia (Peranakan)

What: You will learn to make curry puffs and spring rolls. Participants are required to bring their own chopping board or pastry mat, rolling pin and 10cm round cookie cutter.
When: Tuesday, 26th February, 10am-midday.
Where: North Ringwood Community House.
Cost: $25.
Bookings: just turn up.
Further information: LFC calendar entry.

Summary of upcoming events

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View the complete calendar of upcoming events.