ON 110 acres at Tom's Creek on the way to beautiful Comboyne, you will find something special happening.
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The concept up here is simple - the good life made easy.
Cardia and Lee Forsyth have teamed up with Leanne Decerbo to create a workable property where people can come and learn sustainable ways of living.
It's all about leaving a light footprint and ensuring you give back what you take.
Grow Sustainable Living has opened the doors to the public this month offering workshops for all ages on permaculture-based farming practices.
The property comes with a farm stay if you want the whole experience, or you can explore the property, enjoy a picnic and learn something before you leave.
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Cardia, who gave up the city life with partner Lee, is excited about how their working property can help make a difference to the lives of others in their own backyards.
Lee, an engineer who worked on wind farms in Scotland, is highly knowledgeable about solar infrastructure and how that can be implemented at a practical level.
The "build it and they will come" approach will see specialists in sustainable farming practices use the property to host workshops.
They are even conducting outdoor classes for children with autism in collaboration with Early Connections, to provide sensory experiences through gardening, tree planting and farm care.
"We are also doing adult education classes in permaculture and how to propagate plants, nurture seedlings, work with different climates and harvesting cycles and what to plant when," Cardia said.
"Recycling and upcycling is a great way to make a difference and we have lots of examples on the property where we show how what we would normally throw in the tip can become something else.
"We've recycled a large skateboard ramp and used it to make a bridge.
"Everyone has some concern about waste and we all have an option to live a better life. We show you how you can do that in the perimeters of your own backyard."
The farm concept itself even grew organically, Cardia says, adding that the smallest changes people make in their lives now can be hugely fulfilling and bring happiness.
They hope to also run a local produce market
A young local craftsman from Taree is working on a fleet of beautifully constructed recycled timber market trolleys.
"This area is just beautiful. When we first came here we thought it was unbelievable how many little treasures are dotted around the place," Cardia said.
"We want people to come and spend time with us and walk around our farm and gardens while they learn about planting trees, garden design, farming practices, collecting eggs, vegetables, fruits and herbs.
"This is a great way to get to know this beautiful region and gain some insight into sustainable gardening and living."
Visitors can get up close with some of the property's "natural gardeners" including alpacas, mini pigs and goats, miniature horse, lambs, chickens, and their beloved Kelpies.
To find out more about the workshops and September school holidays program go to: www.growsustainableliving.com
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