Seven years ago, Debbie and her family, moved from the Central Coast to Bungonia, where she has been working with her family to develop Perrumba Farm as a sustainable food producing farm.

"Perrumba" is an Aboriginal name meaning "wattle blossom". This name was chosen as a constant reminder for their long-term responsibility to care for the land, as well as native plants, animals and birds they share their home with.

On the farm, the family grow a wide variety of organic fruit, herbs and vegetables and have used recycled materials for their greenhouses and raised garden beds. Two thirds of the farm is native bushland, where 25 native orchids and 56 bird species have been identified. Perrumba Farm is also home to heritage breeds of chickens and ducks, which are available for sale from fertile eggs to point of lay.

Debbie, who has a master's degree in Social Change and Development specialising in Food Security and Rural Sustainable Development, shares her knowledge through "An Alternate Life Learning Centre" where weekend workshops and farm tours are held, and Debbie also offers permaculture and food landscaping services. For more details: https://perrumba.farm.

Christine Clark was the winner of flower month with her spectacular vase of dahlias from her garden, though she did confess her husband mostly cared for them.

Our next meeting is Wednesday, May 28, and members are asked to bring along an example of a hobby or craft they enjoy. For more information contact Iris Sturgiss 0417 651 433.