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Description
We have been restoring an acre for the last few years. Removing invasive weeds and planting indigenous grasses and trees. The property is managed following ecological and permaculture practices. Water and green waste is managed on site, being put back into/onto the land through grey water, solarisation of weeds (seeds removed) and bark to keep weeds at bay. There are 30 fruit trees in the meadow, planted amongst 1500 native grasses. It is a big job. Spring is the time of year where weeds sprout, removing them, mulching and maintenance is an ongoing activity which we would appreciate some help with. Located on the eastern escarpment of the Mt Dandenong Range, with views towards the Great Dividing Range. The property boasts an abundance of native fauna species. It is quiet and serene.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
Animal Care
General Maintenance
Interests
Events & social
Sustainability
Culture
Charity work
Music
Art & design
Gardening
Cooking & food
Performing arts
Camping
Nature
Fitness
Dancing
Mountain
Sailing / Boating
Outdoor activities
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
At our place, cultural exchange is woven into the revitalisation of land and community. Visitors are invited to participate in real, hands-on work restoring the property to ecological and biological viability through permaculture principles and land restoration practices. This includes soil regeneration, weed management, erosion control, habitat creation and water-sensitive design, all grounded in sustainable and environmentally responsible methods.
We also offer opportunities to engage with the broader local landscape by participating in site assessments of neighbouring properties. Through these shared experiences, knowledge about land care, regeneration and sustainable living is exchanged in a practical, collaborative way. A strong focus is placed on the promotion and planting of indigenous flora species, fostering a deeper understanding of local ecosystems, biodiversity and culturally significant plants.
Cultural exchange here goes beyond land care. Guests are encouraged to connect with local life by visiting community food markets, participating in local events and gatherings, and engaging with residents. These experiences provide insight into regional traditions, seasonal food systems and the social fabric of the community.
Overall, the exchange offers an immersive experience that blends ecological restoration with community connection, supporting both environmental stewardship and meaningful cross-cultural learning.
Help
Maximum 3-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
I’d like some help with weed removal, weed suppression and planting. You need to be fit and able bodied as the land is sloping. I am a local gardens for wildlife consultant and love sharing knowledge and experiences of land restoration with interested others.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner
French: Beginner
Italian: Beginner
Accommodation
An onsite caravan, with a double bed, kitchen, fridge and wardrobe. Fully fitted out with cookware and crockery, cutlery and bedding. Overlooking the front garden. Food can be self catered or meals can be shared, contribution to food costs appreciated.
What else ...
Built in 1956, the property sits on an acre on the hill overlooking the great dividing range in the bush surrounded by mountain ash, tree ferns, camellias and rhododendrons. It is a quiet, serene, kind space. There is a food forest in progress in the backyard, a grotto under the deck and a variety of sculptures and flora and fauna at your doorstep.
Bus stop into Monbulk or Olinda a five min walk away. Nearby there are delicious forest walks, cafes, supermarkets, post office, banks, three opp shops (😊) and then more in Kallista and Belgrave which are a 4 minute and 8 minute drive away respectively. Olinda and Sassafras are similar distances and offer a variety of options to entertain and delight your senses.
Our home is communal and environmentally minded.
Supermarket, post office, chemist, cafes are all available in Monbulk or a short drive/bus ride gets you into any one of the local tourist areas of Sassafras, Olinda, Kalista and Belgrave.
There are over 1,000 bush walks in the area and it is popular with cyclists because of the areas natural beauty.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Mischief
Photos
