Once again we find ourselves in challenging times, as the world adjusts to the coronavirus pandemic. It’s a strange feeling … we held our monthly Committee meeting last night, and we were busy planning many activities to be held over the coming months, but in the back of our minds we were wondering if they will all go ahead, or will we have to cancel public events? I raise this not to be alarmist, but because we do have many members—including your humble president and narrator—who are in, shall we say, a more susceptible age range.  It’s very important to us that we care for all our members, and we will be taking steps to mitigate risk to everyone when we run events. But for now we are continuing on with all our plans and hope everyone remains safe and well. And please don’t be offended if I decline to shake hands or give you a hug when we meet … in the short term.

Last month we quietly introduced Harvest Swap at our Cooroy Community Permaculture Gardens. We decided to do a soft launch before going public, and it was a huge success. Harvest Swap will be held on the first and third Sunday of every month, commencing at 9.00 am through autumn. The swap is an informal gathering, and we hope you’ll embrace this community initiative. If you live locally around Cooroy, please tell your friends and neighbours also—everyone is welcome. There are more details on our website

In my last message I mentioned that our Seed Savers Coordinator, Sue Anderson, had put out a call for someone to work with her and eventually take over the reins. I am happy to report that she had two very keen volunteers who are now working with her, and will probably jointly act as Seed Savers Coordinators. Job sharing is a great way to fulfil a vital role in our delivery of services, but without feeling the full burden of responsibility. We have wonderful volunteers within our organisation, and it’s always pleasing to share the load and spread the joy! If you’d like to consider helping out with any one of our services or events, please contact me at the email address below – I’m certain we can find a role that will suit both your skills set and time commitments.

This month we feature an inspiring story from Phil Moran of Noosa and District Landcare under the banner of our “Together we grow … with positive solutions”.

I really enjoy reading all the positive feedback we are getting from our contributors, and all with a very different take on the theme. I hope you’re enjoying them also.

Our Club Night this Thursday promises to be another great evening with our feature guest speakers discussing Permaculture and wellness. This talk was organised months ago, but now proves to be very timely. We commence promptly at 6.30 pm, but come along early and join in our market place. I look forward to seeing you there.

And don’t forget our Members’ Buying Club—orders are now open, and will close at 5.00 pm on Monday 16 March. Visit ‘Bunya Grove Produce’ under ‘Members Portal’ on our website. You must be a member to access this service.

Remember, Permaculture Noosa is your organisation, and we always welcome your feedback. Send your suggestions to president@permaculturenoosa.com.au.

Latha Matters