EDUCATIONAL sessions with enthusiastic experts in their fields have been confirmed for the morning of Bellingen Plant Fair on Saturday 11 March 2023 at Bellingen Park.

At 9am Ian Epic Earth, founder of the Gourmet Garden School, talks about the state of food and the immense value in growing our own.

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“Ian will explain the significant environmental and social issues with industrial food systems and why growing food is empowering,” Kaz Selbie, Manager of the Plant Fair told News of the Area.

9.30am sees a Herbal Workshop take place north of the stage with Laura Harrison from Chamomile Natural Health Bellingen.

With ten years’ experience as a clinical naturopath, Laura has a huge passion for herbs, gardens, and good health.

“She has loads of experience harvesting wild herbs in Australia and England.

“Laura will show simple and practical preparations to get you started in the wonderful world of herbs.”

At 10am, Biodynamic Agriculture Australia’s John Hodgkinson takes to the stage.

“With over 30 years of biodynamic experience, John explains this simple grass roots practice, which enlivens your soil, to grow healthy, happy plants.”

Ashley Donges, an Invasive Plants Officer from Bellingen Shire Council speaks at 11am about how high priority weeds are threatening the Shire and what are the common look-alikes.

“At noon Luigi Marasco from The Patch Bellingen bravely talks about the hunter as educator, conservationist, and food source.

“His focus is community resilience, and the role of the hunter is an important role for the community in sourcing
sustainable and ethical meat,” Kaz said.

Also on the ground, literally, is a bevy of valuable local groups which have manned stands to share information and resources, answer questions and sign you up for support.

The Bellingen Environment Centre Inc (BEC), who present the Fair, share environmental issues, protect the natural environment and biodiversity of the Valley, and foster proactive responses to climate change with a commitment to non-violent action principles.

The organisation is on a mission to keep trees in the ground, get more trees in the ground, and inform and encourage the community to be aware and take action.

The partner organisations at the fair reflect BEC’s philosophies and include the following.

The Bellingen Seed Savers is a not-for-profit formed in 2008.

It’s made up of a large group of dedicated people who grow food plants, save seeds and share plants, seeds and
gardening knowledge with others.

Their aim is to ensure a reliable source of delicious, nutritious food into the future by growing healthy plants, saving the locally adapted seeds and sharing them with our community.

Bellingen Landcare is a not-for-profit organisation supporting the Landcare community across the Bellingen Shire.

As an independent, professional and community-based organisation they provide support and leadership for community involvement in natural resource management now and into the future.

Biodynamic Agriculture Australia is a not-for-profit who shares knowledge and products to enliven our soils and natural environment by creating a resilient and healthy ecosystem which enables nutrient rich produce.

Vibe-wise there’s cool music on stage from 8am- 2pm, with Thoughts and Prayers, local duo Debbie Spillane and Brett Barber, who play acoustic chill with heart and soul.

When the band has a break, the speakers take to the stage.

For information visit the Bellingen Plant Fair website at www.bellingenplantfair.org/.

By Andrea FERRARI