Backyard Chickens - Beyond the Basics

BPG, together with chicken consultant Elise McNamara from Chicken Coach, are hosting a workshop to get all your tricky chook questions answered! Elise will be tailoring the workshop to chooks in our climate, biosecurity risks and common diseases/parasites in our area, plus considerations for organic and natural approaches and reducing inputs where possible.

Whether you've had chooks for years or are looking to start a flock of your own, join us to learn the tips and tricks that will help your hens stay healthy and keep your pantry full of eggs!

You'll learn all about:

1. Caring for heritage chickens vs Isa Browns

2. Best breeds and where to find healthy pullets and hens

3. Diseases of fowls, symptoms of illness, biosecurity, health checks, parasites, and which products actually work

4. The BEST feeders, drinkers, coops/houses

5. Hygiene, housing, yard, and bedding considerations, including deep litter

6. Summer care (planning for heat waves), autumn care (annual moulting), and winter care - avoiding respiratory illnesses

7. Feeding - Grains, greens, grit & grubs. My favourite feeds and how to pick a good quality feed.

8. Basics of behaviour, including broody/clucky hens and preventing boredom

9. The secret old breeders’ tips for keeping your feathered friends in tip-top condition.

10. Elise's favourite Permaculture systems that can be adapted for many properties.

WHO IS THIS WORKSHOP FOR?
Most people who attend this workshop have had chickens for a while (some, years) but they are keen to hear about new, different, and easier ways of doing things.

If you're considering getting chickens for the first time, you'll start off on the right foot!

Email  info@ballaratpermacultureguild.org if you have any questions.