A Touch of Tuscany
When Tuscan winemaker Stefano Guidi dropped in to Matakana’s Heron’s Flight winery for the first time he wasn’t looking for a job, he was just there to sample their Italian varietal wines and chat with the winemaker.
The course, run by Trish Allen and Guenther Andraschko, will take place from April to November 2023 at Matakana Hall and Community Garden, with field trips to other permaculture destinations across the region.
Allen is well-known in the region for setting up numerous initiatives, including the Mahurangi wastebusters.
“Permaculture is not only about looking after water, soil and eco-systems, but also growing food and other flora in a sustainable way,” Allen says. “Recently we’ve seen the cost of fertilisers and food go through the roof. It’s a great reason for people to create their own healthy soil and compost to grow nutritious food for their families and communities.”
Meanwhile, Andraschko is a local earth builder and landscaper with over 25 years’ experience creating outdoor environments. He is passionate about supporting others to realise their own permaculture projects and aspiration.
“What makes PDC unique is that participants can choose from a range of different practical workshops, which include hands-on experience with Earth Building, Pruning & Grafting, Mushroom Growing, Fermentation and more,” he says.
The pair have run numerous PDC courses over the years but this one introduces some new tools and ideas.
“Healthy soil and compost are key elements of a thriving ecosystem, and we’ve purchased a new microscope that can show us close up just how healthy it is,” says Allen. “We’re also emphasising a Te Ao Māori perspective on permaculture this year, which will be a wonderful addition to the course.”
The full PDC consists of nine theory days and three practical workshops, held over seven months. The theory days cover topics such as Ecology & Climate, Water Management, Composting, Forest Gardens and Economics.
There are eight practical workshops to choose from, and once the PDC students has taken their pick the remaining spots are open to the public.
The cost of the full PDC is $1,495. Additional practical workshops are $90 when attending the full PDC. Individual theory or practical workshops can be attended by anyone at $155 each or $130 for three or more.
