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23 Sep 2024
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Details
Description
We are a family of five (three boys aged 7, 4 & 2 yo) living off grid on an 80 acre property in Central Victoria, half way between Castlemaine and Daylesford. We're into beekeeping, growing food and planting trees with a regenerative land managament philosophy.
We have just completed owner building our passive solar strawbale home. The site is situated in a bush setting with vistas spanning across undulating paddocks. The property incorporates a well-considered design of contoured driveways and drains, keyline ploughing, dams and tree plantings to maximise the efficiency of water naturally flowing across the landscape.
We are a busy and active family with lots of regular weekly extra-curricular activities, appointments and school commitments. I run an online business and work flexible hours from home, while my partner works away a fair bit. We have a structured routine which needs to be respected in order for things to run smoothly.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
For this project, participants can gain insights into the realities of living off grid, managing large properties and growing and preserving food. In addition, we can pass on our knowledge about off-grid living having lived off grid for over 15 years. General and specific guidance into topics like infrastructure setup, costs, capacities, fuel options, electrical, plumbing, composting systems, etc can be viewed, explained and experienced during the stay.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Currently, we're looking for some extra hands to help with the busy spring season (Sep/Oct 2024). Tasks include:
- Managing orchard trees - weeding, composting, mulching, pruning, irrigation maintenance, planting
- Managing vegetable production - planting, weeding, harvesting, netting, irrigation
- Managing landscape / shelterbelt trees - pruning, weeding, composting, mulching
- And possibly some general landscaping tasks
1-2 weeks work available in September/October 2024. Own vehicle encourage, though not necessary .
This project would suit individuals / couples with a keen interest in low-impact living, the outdoors and regenerative / organic farming practices. Experience in market gardens, orchards, tree management or landscaping would be ideal, however not necessary. Essential is a positive attitude, ability to 'get your hands dirty' and an open mind.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Beginner
Japanese: Beginner
Chinese (Cantonese): Beginner
Accommodation
Several types of accomodation options can be arranged, depending on your preferences / circumstances. Of course, all accomodation options will be provided free of charge in exchange for assistance.
Camping (Glamping!) or Caravanning on our property will immerse you in our lifestyle and give you the opportunity to see the beautiful sunrises, sunsets and stars. Bedding provided.
We have a spare sofa bed in the office in our cozy home which workaways can stay in.
Food will be provided for all workawayers. We usually eat together as a family so any workawayers will be treated as part of our own family. Our meals tend to be on the early side, due to young children.
What else ...
We're so lucky to live in an area so rich and diverse in cultural activities and natural wonders, that's sure to appeal to many types of people. Local swimming holes, lakes and walking tracks are highly sought after in this region. There are also many interesting farms / farmlets to visit, local food producers, markets, restaurants and cafes around. Music and the arts is also a big thing here and with loads of events being hosted year round, there's always something to do. Lots of kid-friendly activities, events and natural environments for them to explore. Gold fossicking, horseriding, dancing,...you name it, there's something for everyone here.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
Vans and own transportation encouraged. Plenty of space and access to power.
Can possibly accept pets
Depending on the pet. We are fully fenced and welcome calm and well-natured dogs. We have a very calm and gentle Scottish Deerhound who is friendly and affectionate.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
