What's On - Otway Agroforestry Network

Understanding Carbon on Farms Workshop

19 April 2024

Click on the image for more details

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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.

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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.

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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.
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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.

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(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

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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

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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

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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

CLIMATE_DOGS.JPEG.JPGGraeme 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. **

https://youtu.be/gtlAbrYgxQs

 

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. **

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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

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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

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by ZOOM

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85420861504?pwd=c0V5UjU2cmNUWlorWStMR3ZOK0hIQT09 Meeting ID: 854 2086 1504 
Passcode: 917332

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

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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:

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

OAN_AGM_25_YEAR_CELEBRATIONS_22_NOV_19.JPG@ 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

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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

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• 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

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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

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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

EUC_LOG_IN_FULL_FLIGHT.JPG 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.

SHIITAKE WORKSHOP BOOKINGS

 

 

 


 

AGROFORESTRY 101

 

A key component of regenerative agriculture & permaculture

@ 40 Jansil Court, Apollo Bay VIC 3233

 

Sunday 8th July 2018

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Time: 10am-1.30pm

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

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Join our hosts Graham & Christina Holdaway at their innovative 150ha property which includes 120ha allocated to forestry.

Everything from:

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 3233

12.30 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

EUC_LOG_IN_FULL_FLIGHT.JPG 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

WALK%20AND%20TALK%20THUMBNAIL.JPG 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

SHEOAKS_BOOK_LAUNCH_B.JPGThis 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

OAN_MILLING_FD_260816.JPG 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

 

 

 

 


 

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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:

 

 

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

 


 

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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,

 

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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

 

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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?

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%20DECLINE%20WORKSHOP%20FLYER%20OCT%202014%20_A.JPG

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?

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

 

OAN_FIELD%20DAY%20FLYER%20CYPRESS%20DECLINE.PNG.JPGThe 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:

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!

BARRABOOL%20HILLS%20EXPO%202014_FLYER.PNG.JPG10th 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 HYDRASTIS_CANADENSIS_HR.JPG

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

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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

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Come and check out how truffles, shiitake mushrooms, furniture timber, birds, banksias, bees, bush tucker will solve issues such as erosion, wind, salt, weeds . . . and make you and your piece of heaven feel good too!


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.

Click here for Maps

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

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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)

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.

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.

More details . . .


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.

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:

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.

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.

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.