Australia
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We moved from the city to a 12 acre property in South West Gippsland, Vic nearly two years ago. The property suffered from about 20 years of neglect so we are working on a range of projects indoors and out. These include reclaiming gardens, clearing deadwood from the many cypress trees around the property, fencing and improving existing pasture.
The property itself is set atop a spur in the Moyarra valley with fabulous views of the surrounding countryside. The holiday town of Inverloch is about 20 mins away with swimming and surf beaches on offer. There are also a number of bushwalking trails nearby. We are also about fifty minutes drive from Phillip Island.
There are regular bus services from Melbourne to the nearby towns of Korrumburra and Wonthaggi which takes approximately an hour and a half so getting to this part of Gippsland is easy.
There are two houses on the property which both require a lot of work inside and out including structural, plastering and painting work. In addition general help with day to day cleaning and cooking is also welcome.
In the longer term we are also planning to set up a small market garden and eventually an aquaponics system with the aim of supplying our own needs as well as generating some income. We are starting to undertake some work to set up the basic infrastructure for these projects.
As well as the outdoor and building work required to improve the property we have a growing menagerie which includes chickens, guinea fowl, a peacock, miniature goats and cattle as well as domestic cats, dogs and parrots. Keeping everyone cleaned out, fed and generally cared for is an ongoing task we’d also be happy to have help with.
Cooking, sourdough bread making and entertaining are things we really enjoy and we'd love to learn more about cuisines from around the world. We are not vegetarian but do our best to ensure our food is ethically raised and processed. We can easily cater for vegetarians.
In our early fifties with no children we have a range of work experiences in music, sound engineering, IT project management, teaching and running a fresh produce company. We have both travelled quite widely and enjoy the opportunity to share and learn from others.
Al & Karen
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Elderly Companionship
General Maintenance
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Farmstay help
Help around the house
Animal Care
Charity Work
We have both travelled extensively and been closely involved in community arts and social organisations. Our property offers a chance to learn about sustainable hobby farming, aquaponics, local food and wine. As well as the opportunity to meet a range of people from local farmers to artists and musicians.
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
We are looking to find people to help with a range of tasks around the farm as well as assist in setting up the gardens and building works. There is also a lot of general property maintenance and cleaning we’d welcome help with as well as animal care and feeding.
English: Fluent
Two rooms available (one for singles and one for couples) Guests have their own rooms in the main house with toilet facilities and a shared shower room. Wood heating, TV and internet available. All meals provided.
Gippsland has a wide range of activities and sights including beaches, cafes, wineries, bushwalking, surfing...
Own transport may be an advantage but not essential as we can assist. Kayaks are also available for anyone interested in exploring the coastal inlet nearby.
Non smoking household.
Whilst we eat meat we are happy to accommodate vegetarian/vegan choices.
Guests will need to be ok with large parrots who are part of the family as well as our livestock guardian dog and a German Shepherd.
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Unlimited broadband available throughout the house and in the guest room. A number of different work spaces available.
More than two
Maximum 25 hours / week, 5 days a week
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