Have you heard of biodynamics? It has been a well-kept secret, until now. Biodynamic Agriculture Australia Ltd, the leading Australian biodynamic organisation, based near Bellingen, is taking the philosophies, techniques and preparations out to the world.

“We want to engage as many growers as we can with this proven form of regenerative agriculture,” says Master Preparation Maker, Alan Johnstone. “We’re a not-for-profit organisation with a strong desire to assist people to grow clean food in a way that improves our environment.

“To this end we are running a number of courses locally and we hope for both farmers and gardeners to come along and find out how biodynamics can help improve their soil, and therefore, their plant health.”

The first workshop, entitled “Biodynamics in the Home Garden” is being held at Brierfield on Friday 27th April. Topics include: the history of biodynamics, the advantages and benefits of using biodynamic preparations and methods and making biodynamic compost.

The course will be conducted by Alan Johnstone and John Hodgkinson, a biodynamic practioner and market gardener. A farm walk will be one of the events on the day.

“There are many benefits to biodynamic methods including the creation of deeper soil and root depth. Increased water holding capacity – very useful in less wet times, improved plant health, yield and flavour and improved carbon capture.” Said Mr Johnstone. “Some people think biodynamics very mysterious – after all we do bury manure in cow horns at particular phases of the moon, in order to make some of the biodynamic preparations, however they’ll find there is a good deal of logic and practicality involved and that with added good intentions, the results can be excellent.”

Future one day workshops include “Advanced Biodynamics” to be held on Friday18th May and “Biodynamics in the Home Orchard “ on Friday 8th June.

For anyone wishing to book in or find out more information about the courses, Alan can be contacted on 6655 0566 during office hours.