2024 OAN Annual General Meeting
Friday 29th November 2024
@ Otway Tonewoods - 4075 Colac-Lavers Hill Road, Weeaproinah VIC 3237
Join us for the OAN 2024 AGM at the Otway Tonewood's shed at Weeaproinah. Home made lunch and a tour of the Otway Ridge Arboretum in the afternoon.
Arrive 10:30 am
AGM 11am-12:30pm
Lunch 12:30pm-1:15pm
Arboretum Tour 1:30-3:30pm
Parking at Yatzies carpark and short 1 min walk to 35 Lavers Hill-Cobden Road, Lavers Hill Vic 3238
GUEST SPEAKER: Alistair Watt has been planting trees for over 40 years at the Otway Ridge Arboretum at Lavers Hill. Initially spurred on by his interest as a woodworker with Huon Pine, Alistair began collecting many different tree species and planting them on his property. He has traversed the globe in search of rare plants, collecting from Chile, China, New Caledonia, Fiji and all over Australia. His conifer collection is one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
We invite members and mentors to come and visit Alistair and experience this diverse planting. He will be doing a guided walk through his garden and passing on knowledge about different species, aesthetics, curation, wookworking and everything in between. Bring your wet weather gear, just in case!
More information about the Otway Ridge Arboretum
ABC documentary - Tree Hunter's Secret Garden
2024 Master TreeGrower Program
Understanding Carbon on Farms Workshop
19 April 2024
Click on the image for more details
Agroforestry Forum and Farm Tour
10 - 11 November 2023
Join us at this special 2 day event to celebrate 30 years of the OAN and 25 years of the Master TreeGrower Program.
More details and the full program can be found at the event website. Click on the image for more details.
Download a flyer (pdf) to advertise the event in your area.
Training Day - Farm Planning
Friday 8th September 2023
Venue: Deans Marsh Hall
A follow-up to the 2023 Master TreeGrower course and a professional training day for peer group mentors.
Attendees will learn farm planning techniques. The day will be run by Andy Gray of Central Otway Landcare, supported by the Otway Agroforestry Network.
The day will conclude with a tour of the Frogwood Arboretum at Deans Marsh.
This day is intended for 2023 MTG attendees and peer group mentors only.
Many thanks to the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) for their sponsorship of this event.
Training Day - Chainsaw Maintenance & Milling
Friday 14th July 2023 from 1:00 - 4:15 pm
Venue: 35 Portreath Road, Bellbrae
Join us to improve your chainsaw skills. Learn chainsaw maintenance, sharpening and watch a milling demonstration.
Afternoon tea will be provided, followed by a farm tour of John and Karen Dean's property.
Click on the image to download the flyer with all the details.
Central Otways Master TreeGrower 2023
This year's MTG will be based in the Central Otways.
Come along to the free introductory day to find out more and to sign up for the course!
28 April 2023 9:30am - 4:30pm at Echidna House, Kawarren
Click on the image to download the flyer with all the details.
For more information and to RSVP, contact Andrew Stewart on andrew.stewart@oan.org.au or Andy Gray from Central Otways Landcare Network at andygray@coln.org.au.
Field Day - Mycorrhyzal Fungi in Plant Roots
10:00am - 3:00pm Tuesday 24 January 2023
Venue: Yan Yan Gurt West Farm, 2005 Winchelsea-Deans Marsh Road, Deans Marsh
Mycorrhyzal Fungi in Plant Roots - an important symbiotic relationship for plants to access more nutrients and water.
Join us at Yan Yan Gurt West Farm for a practical field day with Dr. Charline Henry, Ph.D. in Microbiology, mycorrhyzal fungi for forest restoration
Lunch: Bring a plate to share, tea and coffee provided.
(Click on the image to download the flyer with all the details)
2022 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
11.30am (AEDT) Friday 25th November
@ 4075 Colac-Lavers Hill Road, Weeaproinah
12.30pm Lunch (provided - BYO chair and mug)
1.00 Guest Speaker: James Kidman - Introduction to Tonewoods High Value Instrument Timbers
3.30 pm Conclusion
Click on the image to download the flyer with all the details.
Field Day - Wildlife Nestboxes
Wednesday 28 September 2022
This will be a great chance for OAN members to get together, learn something new from expert Miles Geldard of wildlifenestboxes.com.au and take a tour of Dalpura Farm in Modewarre with its extensive tree plantings.
The event is from 1-4pm, including a break for afternoon tea. Family groups are welcome.
Numbers are limited. If you would like to come along, please RSVP via SMS to David Curry on 0439 800 305.
Click on the image to download the flyer with all the details.
Heytesbury Master Tree Grower 2022
** Applications now closed for this Master Tree Grower Course. **
@ Timboon Recreation Reserve, Curdie River, VIC
9.30am - 4 pm Friday 8th April 2022
Interested in multi-purpose tree growing for profit, shelter and/or conservation?
Want to learn about timber and non-timber products you can grow on your property?
Honey, cut flowers, carbon markets, biodiversity?
This introductory session is free so that you can come along and see if this course fits you and your lifestyle.
For more information click image or contact
Heytesbury Landcare T: 03 5598 3785 Email: admin@heytesburylandcare.org.au
or Andrew Stewart T: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
2021 OAN ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (ZOOM)
1.00 pm (AEDT) Wednesday 24th November 2021
MEETING Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82882029709
Meeting ID: 828 8202 9709
2pm Guest Speaker: Graeme Anderson, Climate Change Specialist
Graeme's topic is:- Changes that have taken place and predictions of future change in SW Victoria as a result of climate change
Graeme is the Climate Specialist in Agriculture in the Biosecurity and Agriculture Division of the Victorian State Government.
Graeme has had a primary role in educating land managers on the actual and predicted effects of climate change on agricultural systems for more than 15 years.
Graeme and his colleagues devised the award winning “Climate Dogs” video series which show in an entertaining way, how climate drivers work by herding rain towards or away from NSW and Victoria. The five 'climate dogs', representing the climate processes, are Enso, Indy, Ridgy, Sam and Eastie.
Graeme presents complex climatic systems and changes in a clear and easy to understand way.
** His presentation was recorded and is available on YouTube courtesy of Bambra Agroforestry Farm. **
Panel Discussion
After Graeme's address he will join an OAN panel led by Mike Robinson-Koss to further explore this topic, which will give the audience opportunities to ask questions. Other panel members include Ian Campbell, Rowan Reid and Kristy Stewart.For further information contact:
Andrew Stewart Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au or David Curry Mob: 0439 800 305 Email: david.curry@oan.org.au
ON-LINE Workshop
Plant ID for Native Seed Collection
7.30-8.30pm Thursday 23rd September 2021
** Don't worry if you missed the workshop. View the recording. **
Get your eye in and start to ID plants while they're in flower now so you can find the plants in summer to collect seed.
The calendar for collecting seed from our native plants starts with identifying plants.
Join OAN member Mike Robinson-Koss from Otway Greening Nursery on a virtual bushwalk through the Otways.
Mike will touch on the finer points of plant ID, seed collection techniques, storage and preparing seed for sowing.
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83833457565
Meeting ID: 838 3345 7565
All Welcome!
Click on image to download the flyer
If you'd like more information contact Andrew Stewart:
Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
Bellarine Master TreeGrower 2021
@ Marcus Hill, Bellarine Peninsula, Vic
9.30am Friday 26th March 2021
In partnership with Bellarine Landcare, the day includes lunch and two local farm tours
For more information click image or contact Andrew Stewart:
Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
2020 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
10.30am Friday 6th November
by ZOOM
11.30am Guest Speaker Tony Rinaudo, World Vision World Vision's Natural Resources Management Specialist.
Due to Tony's vision and energy, whilst working in Sub-Saharan Africa, vast expanses of degraded land that were almost completely devoid of vegetation in the 1970s are now densely studded by trees, shrubs, and crops. The change affects an astonishing 5-6 million ha across the region.
For further information contact: Andrew Stewart e: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au or David Curry e: david.curry@oan.org.au
WEBchat 1
Tree Establishment
6th August @ 7pm AEST
Free online Tree establishment discussion for OAN members
Led by Rowan Reid on ZOOM
OAN members are invited join a free ZOOM chat we have room for up to 100 computers to join the discussion. Access is restricted to OAN members and their families.
OAN members have been establishing trees for many years now, but the world seems to be constantly changing:
- The chances of drier springs and summers may mean the timing may be different
- Successful plantings in the past may have contributed to more kangaroos in the district posing a threat to establishment
- Some people are becoming more uncomfortable about using the herbicide mixes for weed control and are seeking alternative weed control methods
- People may be interested in how to establish individual paddock trees in grazed paddocks rather than fenced off lines of trees
This meeting is designed to put all these ideas on the table and discuss what has worked for some and might work for others.
For access details go to the OAN Members page
WEBINAR 2
Tree and forest measurement
10th June @ 4pm AEST
Free online Tree and Forest Measurement seminar for OAN members
Led by Rowan Reid on ZOOM for about an hour
OAN members are invited join a free ZOOM seminar we have room for up to 100 computers to join the presentation. Access is restricted to OAN members and their families.
Rowan will run through a powerpoint presentation including photos and videos EST.
Members will have the opportunity to use the chat function to ask questions during the presentation before we have an open discussion at the end.
Rowan will also be available for follow-up on-line mentoring for members as they undertake their tree management.
For access details go to the OAN Members page
WEBINAR 1
Pruning and thinning your farm trees
15th May @ 2pm AEST
Free online Pruning and Thinning seminar for OAN members
Led by Rowan Reid on ZOOM for about an hour
OAN members are invited join a free ZOOM seminar we ahve room for up to 100 computers to join the presentation. Access is restricted to OAN members and their families.
Rowan will run through a powerpoint presentation including photos and videos EST. The aim is to encourage and guide our local landholders through their winter pruning activities.
Members will have the opportunity to use the chat function to ask questions during the presentation before we have an open discussion at the end.
Rowan will also be available for follow-up on-line mentoring for members as they undertake their tree management.
For access details go to the OAN Members page
Central Otways Master Treegrower Course
Comprehensive 8 - day course. Commencing 3rd April
April- June 2020
For more information contact Andrew Stewart
You can also register your interest by filling in the the form (click on image) and returning to Andrew:
Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
Mastering Trees on Farms
@ Echidna House, 2 Kawarren East Rd, Kawarren 3249
9.30am - 4.30pm Friday 3rd April 2020
For more information click image or contact Andrew Stewart
RSVP 1st april (please advise of any dietary requirements)
Andrew Stewart Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
Native Seed Field Day
@ Barongarook Hall 280 Barongarook Hall, Barongarook
1 - 4.30pm Friday 22nd February 2020
For more information click image or contact Andrew or David
RSVP 24th Feb (please advise of any dietary requirements)
Andrew Stewart Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
David Curry Mob: 0439 800 305 Email: david.curry@oan.org.au
2019 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
& Celebrating 25 years of community agroforestry
5pm Friday 22nd November
@ Yan Yan Gurt West Woolshed, 1925 Winchelsea - Deans Marsh Rd, Deans Marsh, 3235
6.30pm Drinks, Nibbles and Live Music
For more information click image or contact Andrew or David
RSVP 18th Nov (please advise of any dietary requirements)
Andrew Stewart Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
David Curry Mob: 0439 800 305 Email: david.curry@oan.org.au
Mill Tours Field Day
@ Midway Geelong & AKD Colac
9am - 3.30pm Friday 18th October 2019
RSVP: 14th October 2019 to Rowan Reid
Integrating Native Food Plants into Agroforestry
OAN Field and Mentor Skills Day
@ Special Effects Nursery, 215A Barongarook Rd, Barongarook VIC 3249
1pm - 4.30pm Saturday 6th July 2019
• integrating native food plants into agroforestry
• agroforestry seed orchard of spotted gums
• banksias
• native plant flower arranging
Afternoon tea to be served with a bush tucker theme.
OAN Members $5, Non-members $15
RSVP (for catering) by Friday 5th July
Andrew Stewart e: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au . m: 0448 363 277
David Curry e: david.curry@oan.org.au . m: 0439 800 305
To download event flyer click on image
Australian Master TreeGrower Course
Introduction day @ Modewarre Hall, 910 Cape Otway Rd, Modewarre
9.30am - 4.30pm Friday 12th April 2019
8-Day course for landholders wishing to integrate trees into farming systems for conservation, agriculture and profit
Day 1 is an opportunity to try-before-you-buy. Come along and meet the team. We are keen to hear about your interests in growing trees. After lunch we'll head out for farm walks highlighting local experiences.
FREE lunch included
For more information or to register interest email Andrew Stewart e: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au,
or download the Australian Master TreeGrower Course flyer.
MAKING HOLLOWS: Tree manipulation for habitat
@ Mt Leura & Mt Sugarloaf Reserves, Camperdown
10.00pm - 2pm Friday 16th November
Join forest scientist and tree grower ROWAN REID from Bambra Agroforestry Farm and qualified arborist LEIGHTON STACE from Stace Tree Care for practical demonstrations, tips and discussion.
This is also an opportunity to see what we're doing, planning and learning at the Mt Leura Reserve with regards to creating and monitoring hollows and nesting sites too.
FREE lunch included
For more information contact Becky, or download the Making Hollows flyer.
RSVP (by Wed 14 Nov) Becky McCann 0409 842 471, becky.mccann@hotmail.com
Please, feel free to help spread the word amongst your networks! A joint partnership between the Mt Leura & Mt Sugarloaf Reserves Management Committee, the Otway Agroforestry Network and Friends of Mt Leura.
Photo: Trevor Pescott
2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Friday 2nd November
@Deans Marsh Community Hall
10 Pennyroyal Valley Rd Deans Marsh, 3235
12.00 noon lunch ($10.00 contribution)
12.45: AGM
1.30: Guest speaker and walking tour Frogwood arboretum
James Maund will guide our tour of his Frogwood arborteum and the regevetated Deans Marsh Creek.
Frogwood Arboretum (est. 2007) is located on 100 acres. Previously a cattle property, Frogwood is now being transformed into an Arboretum containing some of the most remarkable tree species on the planet. When complete the Arboretum will contain over 3,000 trees selected from approximately 200 different tree species. It is intended that all the tree species planted will be Original species i.e. not cultivars. Each tree species has been selected for its outstanding beauty, its usefulness to humanity, its spiritual/symbolic meaning or a combination of these reasons. Most of the tree species will be planted in groves rather than as single specimens, showing the tree in a more natural way, and also creating a seed bank for future generations.
3.30 pm Conclusion
RSVP 26th Oct (please advise of any dietary requirements)
Andrew Stewart Mob: 0448 363 277 Email: andrew.stewart@oan.org.au
Ian Campbell Mob: 0474 003 455 Email: ianpcampbell@live.com.au
Log-grown Shiitake Workshop
@ Deans Marsh Community Centre
10.00pm - 3.30pm Sunday 21st October
Run in conjunction with the Australian Agroforestry Foundation.
Learn about the biology and production of Shiitake mushrooms on logs, from scientists and practitioners.
Morning lectures with Rowan Reid followed by practical sessions. All participants will recieve 50 Shiitake dowels and the Growing Log-grown Shiitake Mushrooms digital manual (Value $35)
$85 (OAN Members $20 discount)
These workshop are very popular and place are limited, so book early to secure you place. Bookings are via the Australian Agroforestry Foundation website.
AGROFORESTRY 101
A key component of regenerative agriculture & permaculture
@ 40 Jansil Court, Apollo Bay VIC 3233
Sunday 8th July 2018
Cost: OAN members $5, non-memnbers $15
BYO water, snacks and appropriate clothing & footwear
RSVP by 3rd July to: Andrew Stewart 0448 363 277
CARMYLLIE
Forest & Farm Field Day
@ 271 Flemings Rd, Grenville VIC 3352 (south of Ballarat)
Thursday 24th May 2018
Join our hosts Graham & Christina Holdaway at their innovative 150ha property which includes 120ha allocated to forestry.
Everything from:
- Biochar from forest waste - see the biochar kiln in action!
- Hugel beds
- Permacultrure design
- Experimental value adding in coppice Blue Gums
- Susutainable passive house design
- Enery efficient wood-fired heating
- High pruning of Eucalypts
Time: 10am-2pm
Cost: OAN members $5, non-memnbers $15
BYO water, snacks and appropriate clothing & footwear
RSVP by 21st May to: David Curry 0439 800 305 or Andrew Stewart 0448 363 277
Otway Agroforestry Network Annual General Meeting 2017
1.30pm Friday 17th November, Conservation Ecology Centre, Cape Otway
Otway Lighthouse Rd, Cape Otway VIC 323312.30 pm lunch ($5.00 contribution)
1.30: AGM
2.45: Guest Speakers: Co-founder of the Conservation Ecology Centre (CEC), Shayne Neale, and Environmental Research Manager Dr. Jack Pascoe will give an overview of the CEC's projects including establishment of over 120, 000 trees on the property and development of tree guards for wallabies, kangaroos and deer. Also koala habitat restoration programs including ecological burning techniques.
3.30 pm Conclusion
After the presentation our hosts are happy to lead a drive around some of the projects.
RSVP by 14th November to: Contact Andrew Stewart or Ian Campbell
Log-grown Shiitake Workshop
@ Special Effects Nursery, Drapers Rd Colac
1.00pm - 4.30pm Friday 29th September 2017
Learn about the biology and production of Shiitake mushrooms on logs, from scientists and practitioners.
Working with the University of Melbourne researchers, the Otway Agroforestry Network introduced the loggrown
Shiitake mushrooms production to Australia 10 years ago. Our members have grown Shiitake on a range
of species and have supplied restaurants and markets.
Every participant will be provided with some dowels and will have the opportunity to inoculate their own log.
Oak and Eucalypt will be available for purchase.
RSVP by 27th September
Tickets are available via Eventbrite
Members $25, Non-members $60
For more information contact Mike Robinson-Koss
Walk & Talk
Trees for Conservation and Profit
@ Bellbrae
Friday 28th April 2017
Integrating trees and shrubs into existing farming systems for maximum benefit. Like: shade and shelter, animal welfare, nutrient cycling, erosion control, improved water quality, integrated pest management
Combining biodiversity with productive trees and shrubs e.g hardwood timber, honey, firewood, native/indigenous seed.
Managing trees for high quality saw logs - thinning and pruning
Any topic of interest can be raised and discussed with Surf Coast and Inland Plains Landcare Network and Otway Agroforestry Network staff and members.
Time: 1.30-4pm
Location: "Woodlands" 1810 Hendy Main Road, Bellbrae
RSVP by 23rd April to: David Curry or Murray Johns
Members $5, Non-members $10
Christmas Gathering 2016
Ravens Creek Farm
Friday 9th December
As another hectic year draws to a close, take some time out to catch up with old friends and enjoy a tour of this inspiring farm, followed by a delicious afternoon tea.
Time: from 2pm
Location: 742 Handy Main Road, Moriac
RSVP by 6th December to: Contact Andrew Stewart or Devid Curry Members $10, Non-members $15
Otway Agroforestry Network Annual General Meeting 2016
2pm Friday 4th November, Tarndwarncourt, 37 Roseneath Road, Warncourt, Victoria
Guest Speaker: Karen Thomas, Port Phillip and Westerport CMA
Afternoon tea provided
RSVP by 2nd November to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Sheoaks: wind harps from desert to the sea
BOOK LAUNCH
Saturday 8th October 2016
This is a rare treat for lovers of our bushland, native trees and native plant ecology as well as being a text book about Sheoak timber for fuel, art, craft and its role in the landscape today as well as in the past.
Neville Bonney is a South Australian native plant expert, ethnobotanist and published author. He is an advocate for the commercialisation of "useful" indigenous flora and has promoted the production and development of markets for "bush foods" in Australia and beyond.
We are delighted that Neville has asked us to hold his book launch here at the TreeHouse. Rowan Reid, our local agroforester, designer of the award-winning Master TreeGower program and Director of the Australian Agroforestry Foundation will officiate. So please join us.
Time: 3.30pm
Location: TreeHouse Gallery, 53-57 Main Street, Birregurra 3242
RSVP Marianne Stewart T: 5236 2086
Plantation Eucalypts
Deans Marsh
Friday 26th August 2016
Milling a 25-yr-old planted Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis) on a portable bandsaw mill, followed by a walk through a planted sawlog and managed native forest and then to an 18 yr-old plantation soon to provide high quality timber.
Time: 10.30am - 3.30pm
Location: 80 Pennyroyal Station Road, Deans Marsh
RSVP by 23rd August to: Contact Andrew Stewart M: 0488 363 277 or David Curry M:0439 800 305 Members $10, Non-members $20
OAN FARM WALK
Friday 29th April 2016 Timboon
OAN Farm Walks are always a great way to see what other members are doing with their trees - plus a terrific opportunity to catch up. This Farm Walk is at the property of Dean Drayton. Dean's property provides a range of geography and hardwood timber opportunities including:
- Specifically planted trees ready for management.
- Regrowth on a steep slope with high quality Blackwood and Manna Gum ready for some silvicultural work (selecting, thinning and pruning).
- A sheltered paddock with fertile alluvial soils ready for species selection an planting. And
- A range of good form species which could provide seed for other growers.
Dean also has a band mill which he built himself so there's opportunity for a milling demonstration.
Time: 10.30am - 2.30 pm
Location: 231 Browns Road, Timboon.
Cost: $10 members, $20 non-members includes lunch
RSVP by 24th April to: Contact Marianne Stewart T: 5236 2086
Christmas in the Redwoods
Aire Valley Redwoods
Friday 11th December
As another hectic year draws to a close, take some time out to catch up with old friends and enjoy this truly magnificnet place. After a little tree measurement activity with Rudulph, join us for a scrumptious afternoon tea.
Time: from 2pm
Location: Binns Road, GlenAire
RSVP by 27th April to: Contact Marianne Stewart T: 5236 2086 Members $10, Non-members $20
OAN FARM WALK
10am Friday 1st May 2015
OAN Farm Walks are always a great way to see what other members are doing with their trees - plus a terrific opportunity to catch up.
Three OAN members are kindly opening their gates.
Starting point (map): Ravens Creek Farm SHOP.
Cost: $10 members, $20 non-members includes morning tea and lunch
RSVP by 27th April to: Contact Marianne Stewart T: 5236 2086
WEST OTWAY MTG COURSE
Farm Trees for Shade, Shelter, Erosion, Beauty, Timber, Bushfood, and more
Friday 17th April 2015 | Boctocks Creek CFA, 646 Camperdown - Cobden Road, Bostocks Creek,
The award winning Australian Master TreeGrower is an 8-day course for farmers interested in growing and managing trees for conservation profit. Since 1996, over 100 Master TreeGrower courses have been delivered around Australia involving more than 2000 landholders. Initially developed by Rowan Reid when working at the University of Melbourne the course is now delivered across Australia and internationally by the not-for-profit Australian Agroforestry Foundation.
The first day of the course is FREE (including lunch) so that you and your neighbours can come along and see what it's all about before you commit to the program (Please RSVP see Claire's details below).
This course is specifically designed for farmers in the Camperdown, Timboon, Cobden, Simpson, Terang West Colac area and well supported by the Australian Government's Department of Agriculture. Each day will include morning presentations by experienced landholders, industry members and recognised experts covering topics that reflect landholder interests. Each day will be delivered in a different location allowing us to visit farms and business across the region. Program is flexible and will be adapted to suit the interests and needs of participants).
Download Master TreeGrower Course brochure
For more information please contact Claire Dennis M: 0488 362 850
CYPRESS DECLINE III
The how, why, where & what to do about it Workshop
Friday 7th November 2014 | 646 Camperdown - Cobden Road, Bostocks Creeke
Cypress decline in western Victoria is a huge issue. Hundreds of shelter belts/windbreaks across the region are dying or dead, leaving large tracts of land and livestock vulnerable to the weather.
This workshop looks at why and how it occurs; can anything be done; and where to from here?
- Disease overview & management options: nutrient requirements for healthy Cypress; remedial action if disease is not well established; other diseases Cypress are vulnerable to; disposal of dead trees. David Smith, DEPI Entomologist and Forest Pathologist.
- Practical uses for dead Cypress Sawn timber - milling demonstration.
- Bio Char & electricity production - Dr Adrian Morphett, Earth Systems.
- Solutions for management and replacements: Otway Agroforestry Network team (OAN) look at the optimal benefits that integrating multipurpose trees into farming systems (ie shade, shelter, land-class subdivision; wind and water erosion control; nutrient cycling; integrated pest management amongst others) can provide as an appropriate replacement for Cypress trees. Plus shelterbelts can also give ecomomic diversity - seed, cut flowers, native food plants, Log-grown Shiitake mushrooms, timber, honey and biodiversity.
- Q&A: A panel including DEPI, OAN, Colac Otway Shire, CCMA, CFA and local farmers field your questions and discuss the issues about cypress removal, potential uses . . .
The workshop is on the property of Doug & Cheryl Lang, for more information:
Download Cypress Decline Workshop Flyer
Contact Mike Edwards M: 0428 595 085 or David Curry M:0439 800 305
RSVP - Lunch and refreshments are provided. Contact Marianne Stewart T: 5236 2086
CYPRESS DECLINE II
The how, why, where & what to do about it Workshop
Friday 17th Ocotober 2014 | 250 Langs-James Road, Balintore
Cypress decline in western Victoria is a huge issue. Hundreds of shelter belts/windbreaks across the region are dying or dead, leaving large tracts of land and livestock vulnerable to the weather.
This workshop looks at why and how it occurs; can anything be done; and where to from here?
- Disease overview & management options: nutrient requirements for healthy Cypress; remedial action if disease is not well established; other diseases Cypress are vulnerable to; disposal of dead trees. David Smith, DEPI Entomologist and Forest Pathologist.
- Practical uses for dead Cypress Sawn timber - milling demonstration.
- Bio Char & electricity production - Dr Adrian Morphett, Earth Systems.
- Solutions for management and replacements: Otway Agroforestry Network team (OAN) look at the optimal benefits that integrating multipurpose trees into farming systems (ie shade, shelter, land-class subdivision; wind and water erosion control; nutrient cycling; integrated pest management amongst others) can provide as an appropriate replacement for Cypress trees. Plus shelterbelts can also give ecomomic diversity - seed, cut flowers, native food plants, Log-grown Shiitake mushrooms, timber, honey and biodiversity.
- Q&A: A panel including DEPI, OAN, Colac Otway Shire, CCMA, CFA and local farmers field your questions and discuss the issues about cypress removal, potential uses . . .
The workshop is on the property of Doug & Cheryl Lang, for more information:
Download Cypress Decline Workshop Flyer
Contact Mike Edwards M: 0428 595 085 or David Curry M:0439 800 305
RSVP - Lunch and refreshments are provided. Contact Marianne Stewart M: 0407 332 889
Cypress Decline I
The how, why, where & what to do about it Workshop .
Saturday 10th May 2014 as part of the TreeChange Expo
Cypress decline in western Victoria is a big issue. Hundreds of shelter belts/windbreaks across the region are dying or dead, leaving large tracts of land and livestock vulnerable to the weather. In response to this the Otway Agroforestry Network has teamed up with DEPI to run a series of workshops to look at why and how it occurs; can anything be done; and where to from here?
Aspects of the Expo applicable to Cypress decline include:
- Disease overview and management options including: nutrient requirements for healthy Cypress; remedial action if disease is not well established; other diseases Cypress are vulnerable to; and disposal of dead trees. 11am in the main auditorium with David Smith, DEPI Entomologist and Forest pathologist.
- Solutions for management and replacements: A midday session with OAN team including Rowan Reid and Andrew Stewart on the integrating of multipurpose trees into farming systems for optimal benefit (shade, shelter, land class subdivision; wind and water erosion control; nutrient cycling; integrated pest management amongst others) and as an appropriate replacement for Cypress trees.
- The management of trees, including shelter belt trees, for hard wood timber (silviculture) by OAN between 10.15 and 11.15am and 3pm and 4pm.
- Shelter belts have the potential to provide - seed, cut flowers, native food plants, Log-grown Shiitake mushrooms, timber, biodiversity and honey. A lunchtime session with Mike Edwards (OAN) on diversified products.
- A potential use for some Cypress - Sawn timber. Rowan Reid,OAN, and Sven-Eric Brendenberg, Swedex, will demonstrate the milling of farm-grown logs for high quality timber at 1.15pm and 4.15pm. Charcoal is another possibility for Cypress use with the potential for power and Bio char production. Bio Char for adding stable carbon back into our soils.
Watch for further field days on the topic in future - including a mobile charcoal burner/electricity generator and biochar producer.
Download Cypress Decline Workshop Flyer
For more information contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
Otway Agroforestry Network Annual General Meeting 2014
2pm Friday 5th September, Tarndwarncourt, 37 Roseneath Road, Warncourt, Victoria
Guest Speaker: Andrew Maher AM, WithOneSeed
Afternoon tea provided
RSVP by 29th August to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Treechange Expo - Barrabool Hills:
Looking for some fantastic ideas about what to do on your land?
Come and check out how birds, bees, biodiversity, bush tucker, banksias, furniture timber and shiitake mushrooms can solve issues such as erosion, wind, weeds, add to property value . . . provide food, fuel, timber, furniture . . . and lock up carbon. PHEW!
10th MAy 2014 @ Georges Road, Barrabool, VIC
Ross and Lyn George decided their spectacular view from the top of the Barrabool Hills needed some protection, plus their busy lives meant that they needed an alternative landuse to traditional grazing. So they set about treeing their landscape and discovered a whole new world of benefits...
On 10th May they invite you to join with the Barrabool Hills Landcare and the Otway Agroforestry Network to explore and enjoy all the possiblities that integrating trees and shrubs can bring.
There are a wide range of information sessions - including detailed sessions on Cyprus Canker with David Smith (DEPI) and Native Grasses & Weeds
PLUS activities and demonstrations - birds for biodiversity, farm saw-mills, prunning and thinning, wood for fuel, Waterwatch, bush tucker, direct seeding, plant propogation, wine tasting (wine history of the Barrabool Hills), wind turbines, solar pumps and much more ...
Food: soups, sandwiches, local wines and beers bush flavoured ice creams, coffee (of course!).
Time: 10am - 4pm
Location: 30 Georges Rd, Ceres. 10 mins from Geelong Ring Road
Cost: Gold coin donation to Barrabool Hills Landcare
Information: Kaye Rodden: nidgee@reachnet.com.au or 5265 1241 or Lyn George: lyn@austeng.net.au or 5249 1215
This is a working farm - please no dogs!
Celebrating 20 years of OAN: Propagation Workshop
with Mike Robinson-Koss, Mike Edwards & Claire Dennis
Saturday 9th Nov 2013
As a follow up to our very successful June Seed Collection Workshop, OAN is hosting a Propagation Workshop at Otway Greening Nursery. Participants will prick out their own plants as well as sow their own native seed. The workshop has limited spaces so first come best dressed.
Topics to be covered include:
~ Potting mixes and fertilisers ~ Preparation of seed for sowing
~ Seed propagation ~ Seedling care
~Cutting propagation ~ Cutting aftercare
~ Tree plantation design ~ Tree planting techniques
Time: 9am - 12 noon
Location: Otway Greening Nursery, 80 Pennyroyal Station Rd Deans Marsh 3235
To register for the workshop contact: Claire Dennis: e: claire.dennis@oan.org.au or m: 0488 362 850.
Places are limited so book early! Members $5, Non-members $15
Celebrating 20 years of OAN:
Golden Seal and other North American Medicinal Herbs for Agroforestry
Seminar and planting demo with Tony Hosemans
8th November 2013 @ Bambra Agroforestry Farm 
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), also called orangeroot or yellow puccoon, is a perennial herb in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to southeastern Canada and the northeastern United States.
Goldenseal is one of the most popular herbs sold on the American market. Its numerous uses are attributed to its antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Tony has been growing Goldenseal in Victoria since 1996 and has harvest the valuable root crop and sold some back to the USA. Many family farmers grow Goldenseal under their Oak trees and the Otway Agroforestry Network is exploring its potential as a commercial under storey for agroforestry in our region. Tony also grows and researches other understorey herbs such as Black Cohosh and Bearberry. He will talk about these and other potential crops. This is your chance to involved in an exciting new industry.
Tony will present his experience and research with a classroom seminar, follwed by a practical planting exercise (3-4 hours).
Those interested are welcome to stay on for a short tour of the Bambra Agroforestry Farm.
Time: 10am - 2pm
Location: 165 Boonah Bambra Road, Bambra
Cost: $10 OAN Members / $20 Non-Members (covers Morning Tea and Lunch)
Registration: Marianne Stewart E: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au or t: 03 5236 2086
This is a working farm - please no dogs!
OAN African Adventure
7pm Friday 13th September, Birregurra Mechanics Hall, Main Street Birregurra, Victoria
In May this year a seven-member team from OAN visited Kabale, Uganda to deliver the first African Master TreeGrower course. It was an amazing experience and the resounding success of the course exceeded everyones' expectations. It also resulted in the formation of the Kabale Agroforestry Network.
The team will present an informative and often humorous account of the trip and the course. Plus: Gorillas in the mist, the eccentric Cephas Inn, Tsetse flies on the Nile, and doing a radio interview in the native language that broadcast to 8 million people in 4 different countries!
Everyone is welcome to join us for the evening. Entry will be a small donation of $5 to go to the newly formed Kabale Agroforestry Network fund.
Enquiries contact Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Otway Agroforestry Network Annual General Meeting 2013
5pm Friday 13th September, Birregurra Mechanics Hall, Main Street Birregurra, Victoria
Supper provided
RSVP by 11th August to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Celebrating 20 years of OAN: Practical Seed Collection & Plant ID Workshop
with Mike Robinson-Koss, Mike Edwards & Claire Dennis
Saturday 16th June 2013
The workshop is designed ot be fun, hands on, will take place out in the fields and because there is plenty of lead time before the day, the location of the workshop will depend on the interests of the particpants.
Topics to cover include:
What is a seed? When is it ripe?
Australian plants and fire
Practical plant identification
Seed collection equipment
Extraction of seed from capsules
Storage/preservation of seed
Ethical seed collection
Getting the most out of the book "Native trees and shrubs of south eastern Australian" by Leo Costemans
Time: 9am - 12 noon
To register your interest contact: Claire Dennis: e: claire.dennis@oan.org.au or m: 0488 362 850.
Celebrating 20 years of OAN: Made the seachange/treechange?
Looking for fantastic ideas about what to do with your land?
Saturday 13th April 2013 @ Wongarra
10am Shiitake, Timber & Fences
Rob and Anna made the change more than 10 years ago. He bought a fabulous view and lucky for him the previous owner had started planting an agroforest to help protect and shelter the hillsides from the howling wind off Bass Strait. Rob has expanded this to include many more tree plantings for shelter, furniture timber and aesthetics with a wide rage of species including oaks. Rob supplies thinnings of wattle for english style fencing (displayed on the day) Rob's passion has turned into an award winning business too - Otway Forest Shiitake.
12noon delicious OAN lunch at Rob's (RSVP to get fed- we do a great lunch so it pays to RSVP! Or BYO picnic.)
1.30pm Truffles, Lamb & Bush Tucker
Chef Steve and partner Miki made the change too. Going back to Steve's farming roots, they have a very successful truffery, produce ethically raised lamb and beef, grow a range of herbs on their 36ha farm for their La Bimba Restaurant. Their passion is to have more control over the food they serve, they also supply surplus product to the restaurant trade and plan to establish a gate for the public.
Where: Wongarra. Take the Great Ocean Road at Wongarra and head up Sunnyside Road. Approx 6kms turn right into Kenneady's Road - Rob is #50. Steve's place is #415 Sunnyside Road, approx 1km back the way you came - opp Beatty Lane. Look out for field day signs.
Information: Mike Nurse, SOLN on 5237 6904 or mike.landcare@soln.org
Mike Edwards, OAN on 0428 595 085 or mike@specialeffectsnursery.com.au
RSVP: by 10th April to Marianne Stewart 5236 2086 or marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Celebrating 20 years of OAN: Maximising benefits & opportunties
Friday 22nd February 2013
10am Mike & Mandy Edward's lifestyle property at Barongarook
Mike & Mandy downsized from their sheep and tree farm at Lavers Hill 12 year ago to the more gentler climes of Barongarook. Come and see what can be achieved on a small holding in a short time frame: bush food plants, banksias and other native flowers, timber trees and sheep. A very productive little haven.
12 noon Paul & Wendy Troughton's dairy property at Gerangamete
Commencing with lunch, we will then check out what an energetic dairy farming family have achieved in their quest to be more sustainable and productive. They are transforming their landscape into something that is not only more profitable, but a happier environment for them and their cows.
For more information or to RSVP by 20th Feb contact: Marianne Stewart E: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
FARM WALK & XMAS BBQ
Friday 17th December 2012, Shelford Victoria
5pm Farm Walk
6.30pm Xmas BBQ
Come and see the inspiring work Fiona & David Stephens are doing at their property near Shelford. They are strategically placing more timber and indigenous plants into their agricultural system to: protect the biophysical resources of the property; provide a more resilient system able to cope with climate variability and change; shelter pasture and crops for maximum production and reduce wind erosion; provide parasitic insects for pasture and crop pests; cycle nutrients from deeper soil profiles; increase aethetics; and produce a range of potential diversified products in the form of timber, native food plants products, tree and shrub seed and honey.
After good walk we'll be ready for a festive BBQ! f you can't make the walk, it's OK to just come for the evening - we'd love to catch up with you. It will be a relaxing way to share and celebrate a great year.
For more information and directions contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
RSVP by 5th December to: Marianne Stewart E: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
FARM TREE EXPO 2012 & Celebrating 25 years of the Bambra Agroforestry Farm
Friday 27th April 2012, Bambra Victoria
10am-4pm
The Otway Agroforestry Network's Farm Tree Expo 2012 highlights the diverse products and benefits agroforestry in our landscape has to offer. Sustainable and diversified agriculture can lead to greater efficiency AND reduce greenhouse gases. More . . .
The Art of Native Food
3rd - 13th March, Atrium, Federation Square, Melbourne, Victoria
10.00am-6.00pm
A feast for the senses, combining both botanical and indigenous art with the wonderful flavours of Australian native plants, including cooking demonstrations by native food chef and champion Andrew Fielke.
The Art of Native Food will be presented by the Australian Native Food Industry Ltd. to showcase the amazing native produce that we can grow, value add and market in Australia. The art exhibition will feature twelve of the most popular native plant foods in a botanical art style and a variety of native food representations in indigenous art.
The contrast in artistic styles aims to draw attention to Australian native produce and its potential not only as a gourmet food product but in everyday cooking as well. The art exhibition will be an exquisite backdrop to cooking demonstrations by renowned native food chef and champion Andrew Fielke, plus tastings of products that include native Australian flavours.
This will be an opportunity to learn about the growing range of products that now feature Australian native foods, how many Australian native flavours can be used in flavouring everyday dishes as well as seeing some of the gourmet creations that Australian native food products are known for. .
OAN will be organising a trip on Sunday 4th March . . . to register your interest please contact Marianne Stewart E: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Fire risk & Climate Variability in south western Victoria
Friday 16th September 2011, Bambra, Victoria
10.00am-4.00pm
Commencing at the Bambra Hall (Cnr Winchelsea - Deans Marsh Rd and Aireys Inlet - Bambra Rds . . . watch for signs)
10am The big picture with DR KEVIN TOLHURST, Senior Lecturer in FireEcology and Management, Department of Forest and Ecosystem Services,University of Melbourne.Dr Tolhurst is also a member of the Bushfire Cooperative ResearchCentre and has research interests in wildfire behaviour and prediction,fire risk management and landscape scale fire ecology management
12pm CFA Fire Ready presentation with a focus on Personal Risk and Planning.
12.30pm Lunch
Moving to Otway Greening, Pennyroyal Station Road, Deans Marsh
1.30pm A demonstration of fire behaviour in different landscapes with a focus onvegetation or Agroforestry design features to minimise risk.
For more information contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
RSVP by 14th September to: Marianne Stewart E: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Supported by the Australian Government FarmReady program
Firewood Field Day
Friday 5th August 2011, Winchelsea, Victoria
10.30am-2.00pm
10.30am Commencing at 'All About Mowers' 5 Lennox St Winchelsea. (heading into Winch from Geelong, it is the first turn left past the BP)
- Firewood splitting and drying demonstration
- How to measure moisture content and wood density
- Looking at wood densities and properties of a number of commonly grown firewood species
- OAN draft quality standards for firewood.
- Status of the wood market in the Geelong Region
12.15pm A light lunch at the Globe Theatre Main St, Winchelsea (opp. top pub)
1.00pm Guest speaker - Greg Parker-Hill from Australian Home Heating Association will talk about Low Carbon Heaters and Carbon Zero living.
RSVP by 2nd August to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Supported by the Australian Home Heating Association
Otway Agroforestry Network Annual General Meeting 2011
2.30pm Friday 5th August, Globe Theatre, Main Street Winchelsea, Victoria
Afternoon tea provided.
RSVP by 2nd August to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Increasing farm productivity with multi-purpose trees (and shrubs)
Friday 24th June 2011, Timboon, Victoria
10.30am-3.00pm
Shade and shelter provide microclimates in hot & cold conditions allowing stock, pastures and crops to be more productive.
- productive trees and shrubs can also be used for biodiversity above and below ground
- nutrient recycling
- reduced wind and water erosion
- increased water quality by buffering waterways and wetlands
- remediation for degraded parts of the landscape
- increased property value/aesthetics
- integrated pest management
- improved soil water capture
- reduced evaporation from water storage
- opportunity to redesign along land-class boundaries
- better working envirnment
- diversified product range including firewood, high quality timber, seed, cut flowers, honey, log-grown Shiitake mushrooms
Presented by Rowan Reid, Agroforestry Consultant and Lecturer in the Master of Forest Science, Melbourne University.
At the property of Martin Van de Wouw, 141 Corriemungle Rd, Timboon
RSVP for catering by 21st June.
For more information or to RSVP contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
FARM TREE EXPO 2011 A taste of the forest . . . and more
Sunday 17th April 2011, Birregurra Victoria
10am-4pm
The Otway Agroforestry Network's Farm Tree Expo 2011 highlights the diverse products and benefits agroforestry in our landscape has to offer. Sustainable and diversified agriculture can lead to greater efficiency AND reduce greenhouse gases.
- Andrew Fielke - award winning chef specialises in native foods
- Dave Steel & Tiffany Eckhardt - hand crafted muscial instruments from Australian native timbers - and music
- Come and see demonstrations of tree establishment options, pruning equipment, harvesting machinery, chainsaws, portable sawmills and firewood machines.
- Browse displays of forest products such as bees, honey, bush foods, cut-flowers, seed production, woodcrafts, musical instruments, Log-grown Shiitake mushrooms and high-quality furniture made from farm grown trees.
- Visitors will have direct access to local and national experts on all aspects of tree growing. This is also the chance to meet some of the region's leading tree growers and hear their stories.
- Visit the TreeHouse Gallery at 55 Main Street Birregurra and see fabulous hand crafted furniture and sculptures.
- Make a day or weekend of it and enjoy Birregurra and the surrounding Otways, where we work towards a more sustainable and healthy environment for all.
Agroforestry for the birds
Plus the launch of the new Otway Agroforestry Network, Caring for Our Country, project titled
Facilitating Agroforestry development for landscape scale conservation outcomes
10am-3pm Friday 4th February 2011, 165 Centre Road, Wenslydale Victoria (follow signs)
10.00am ~ Welcome and launch of OAN's latest Caring for our Country project by Federal Member for Corangamite, Darren Cheeseman.
- Andrew Stewart, Deans Marsh farmer/agroforester and co-ordinator of OAN, will talk about the number of bird species that have been identified on his property since establishing Agroforestry. 106 species and still counting!
- Guest Speaker ~ Professor Andrew Bennett, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University will speak about agroforestry in support of landscape-scale bird life. Andrew is an engaging speaker and is passionate about ecology, Australian wildlife and landscape.
- Local landholder Joan Lindros will discuss birds in the Wensleydale region
12.30 An OAN Lunch ~ always fabulous!
1.00 pm Farm walk
3.00pm Finish
RSVP by 2nd February to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Supported by the Australian Government Caring for our Country program
Greenhouse Gas Calculations for Farms
10-12pm Tuesday 5th October, Birregurra Community Centre, Strachan Street Birregurra
Are you a net sequester, a net emitter or a greenhouse gas neutral farm?
Could you change your status with minor adjustments to your farming operation?
Could you generate some extra dollars from sequestering someone else's greenhouse gas emissions?
John Marriott, a whole farm planning consultant, has worked out a relatively simple way of calculating greenhouse gasses based on farm expenditure, and will attempt to answer these questions.
If possible could you bring information on:
- Patterns of landuse on your farm~ Ha used for grazing, Ha used for cropping, Ha under remnant vegetation, revegetated area of land etc.
- The number of livestock you have on the property and their age break down.
- Fuel usage on the farm based on annual expenditure. e.g. $ spent in a year on gas, electricity, diesel and petrol.
- Nitrogen fertiliser use and costs in a year and its form e.g. urea, sulphate of ammonia.
This does not have to be 100% accurate the goal is to see what adjustments will move the farm to a Greenhouse gas neutral or net sequestration situation.
For more information contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
RSVP by 4th October to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Supported by the Australian Government FarmReady program
Otway Agroforestry Network Annual General Meeting
1.45pm Friday 6th August, Colac Bowling Club, Colac, Victoria
3.00pm Guest Speaker Alistair McKendrick, fine-furniture maker. Alistair has pieces at the TreeHouse Gallery, Birregurra, including a beautiful contempary hall table made from Rowan Reid's 17 year-old Shining Gum.
Afternoon tea provided
RSVP by 3rd August to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Greenhouse Gas Emitters & Sequestration in a Farming Context
10.30-1pm Friday 6th August, Colac Victoria
Greenhouse gas emitters & sequestration in the context of a farm system @ Jill Madden's property, Rifle Butts Road, Colac West (Opposite Deans Creek Road, follow signs from Highway)
A light lunch will follow at the Colac Bowling Club, Armstrong Street Colac (Lake end)
Guest presenter Graeme Anderson, Senior Subject Specialist, DPI
For more information contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
Supported by the Australian Government FarmReady program
Climatic Influencers in South West Victoria Worksop 2
10-12pm Tuesday 29th June Birregurra Community Centre, Strachan Street Birregurra
Looking at the Climate Variability and Influencers in more detail than the first workshop held on 29th May, which are: El Nino, La Nina, the Indian Ocean Dipole (Temperature differences in the Indian Ocean), the Sub Tropical Ridge (Sub Tropical High Pressure system), and The Southern Annular Mode (Antarctic systems which influence winter cold fronts).
Also we will consider current climatic trends in SW Vic and how the influencers are impacting on these trends.
- DPI research into farmer perceptions of, and adaptations to, climatic variability and change in SW Vic.
- Tools for tracking influencers and predicting potential rainfall and temperature in coming seasons.
- Effective ways of communicating what influences climate in SW Vic.
Guest presenter Graeme Anderson, Senior Subject Specialist, DPI
For more information contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
Supported by the Australian Government FarmReady program
Climatic Influencers in South West Victoria
1pm Saturday 29th May, Birregurra Community Centre, Strachan Street Birregurra
Climatic variability and even unpredictability is an issue farmers have had to deal with since European settlement.
We measure climate in averages e.g. average rainfall. However annual rainfall may vary considerably from year to year, e.g. Average rainfall for an area may be 700mm actual annual rainfall can vary from 1200mm to 550mm, and is impacted by El Nino, La Nina, the Southern Oscillation Index, Antarctic currents and the Indian Ocean Dipole.
Can we predict what will happen in the next season by tracking the above influencers and how will an overall temperature increase impact on them?
These questions will be discussed at a seminar as part of the Otway Agroforestry Network's Farm Tree Expo 2010 on 29th May, 1pm at the Birregurra Community Health Centre, Strachan Street, Birregurra by Graeme Anderson, Senior Subject Specialist - Climate. Graeme works in the Farm Services Victoria section of the Department of Primary Industries. This is the first in a series seminars funded by the Federal Government's Farm Ready Program.
For more information contact David Curry M:0439 800 305
Farm Tree Expo 2010 Trees for conservation and profit
Saturday 29th May Birregurra Victoria
10-4pm
The Otway Agroforestry Network's Farm Tree Expo 2010 is a celebration of everything trees and shrubs have to offer farmers of all types.
- Come and see demonstrations of tree establishment options, pruning equipment, harvesting machinery, chainsaws and portable sawmills.
- Browse displays of forest products such as bees, honey, bush foods, cut-flowers, seed production, woodcrafts, musical instruments, Log-grown Shiitake mushrooms and high-quality furniture made from farm grown trees.
- Find out about the Climatic influencers in South West Victoria. Learn how to track El Nino, La Ninya, the Southern Oscillation Indes, Antarctic current and the Indian Ocean. A special seminar will be led by climate experts and looks at variability and what influences it.
- Visitors will have direct access to local and national experts on all aspects of tree growing. This is also the chance to meet some of the region's leading tree growers and hear their stories.
- Opening of the new OAN office and TreeHouse Gallery at 55 Main Street Birregurra.
- Make a day or weekend of it and enjoy Birregurra and the surrounding Otways, where we work towards a more sustainable and healthy environment for all.
For more information click here
Trees & Bees
1.30pm Friday 20th November 2009
15 Theilemanns Road, Modewarre
A lot of you have probably been hearing the 'buzz' about the disappearing bees around the planet. Australia is one of the few continents where bees are still thriving.
Bees are a critical forest product needed for the pollination of many other food crops and may be needed to boost stocks in other parts of the world.
Why not include them in your plantings? To find out more, join us for a 'walk and talk' at George Howson's property, with guest bee guru David Martin from the DPI.
We will also view George's agroforestry plantings of Wattle (Silver and Black) along with Sydney Blue Gum, Spotted Gum and Southern Mahogany plus a Mountain Pepper trial. George is also growing organic garlic.
Free to members, $10 for non-members and of course a smashing arvo tea included.
RSVP by 18th November to: Marianne Stewart Email: marianne.stewart@oan.org.au
Log-grown Shiitake Mushroom WORKSHOPS
A project of The Otway Agroforestry Network and The Australian Master TreeGrowers.
We are offering you the opportunity to participate in a one-day workshop covering all aspects of the small scale production of Shiitake mushrooms on logs. Two workshops will be run in October 2009. Participants will receive production notes and sufficient spawn to inoculate about 5 logs for home use. You will only have time to inoculate 2 or 3 logs during the workshop. Additional spawn and logs will be available to purchase for those who attend. Due to import restrictions and project funding we are unable to sell spawn to people who do not attend the workshops. It is anticipated that further workshops will be conducted in 2010 and possibly in other states.
Burnley: Sat. 10th Ocober 2009 10am - 3pm
Colac: Sat. 17th October 2009 10am - 3pm, Special Effects Nursery (Cnr Drapers Rd and Princess Hwy)
Cost: $44 (per family) to join the Otway Agroforestry Network* (workshop and starter pack is only available to members of OAN or other agroforestry networks - ask Rowan which group you could join for your area)
$77 (per family) for the workshop, notes and starter pack (BYO Lunch)
* As part of our import licences and government funding all recipients of the starter pack are required to be members of the Otway Agroforestry Network (or other agroforestry networks). The Otway Agroforestry Network (OAN) is a not-for-profit community organization striving to encourage the wider adoption of vegetation management as an integral component of productive and environmentally sustainable agriculture. Membership is open to all. You will receive our newsletters and 3 copies of the full-colour Australian Agroforestry national magazine per year. You will also become a member of our Shiitake Growers Group and be able to receive follow up shiitake support.