The REthink Nillumbik program is funded by Nillumbik Shire Council and supported by Edendale Community Environment Farm and NECAH (Nillumbik Environment and Climate Action Hub). The project will be delivered by Going Green Solutions and supports Council's climate action goal of net-zero community emissions by 2035.

REthink your garden and outdoors

Do you dream of a backyard that's not just beautiful, but also sustainable and resourceful? In this exciting workshop, we'll explore how the principles of the circular economy can be applied right outside your back door.

We'll delve into the world of vegetable gardening, learning how to grow delicious, healthy food while minimising waste. You'll discover techniques for composting kitchen scraps and yard trimmings, turning them into nutrient-rich fertiliser for your plants. Forget throwing away broken tools! We'll explore the art of tool maintenance, teaching you how to extend the lifespan of your gardening equipment through simple repairs and proper care.

This workshop goes beyond the garden shed. We'll also introduce you to the principles of 'permaculture', a design system for creating self-sustaining landscapes and communities. You'll learn how to design a productive and comfortable outdoor space, and create a closed-loop system in your backyard, where waste from one area becomes a resource for another.

Whether you're a seasoned outdoors person or just starting out, this workshop has something for everyone. Join us and discover how to create a backyard that's not only productive but also environmentally responsible!

Topics include:

permaculture principles in garden design
designing for sunlight, water and plants
making your own slug and snail traps
sowing herbs and vegetables from seed
maintaining and repairing hand tools
growing organic herbs and vegetables
dealing with issues related to pests, trees, drainage, slopes and shade

Who is it for?

The session is suited to anyone interested in making their outdoors more liveable and reducing the amount of resources they use in the garden. It’s also for those wanting to learn skills for growing food at home.

Additional info

This is an adult-focused session not suited to young children. Children over 12 are welcome if accompanied by an adult.
The session will be held indoors.
We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event environment for all attendees. If you have accessibility or inclusion concerns regarding this event, contact us about how we can help.

About the REthink Nillumbik Project

The REthink Nillumbik Project is a series of fun, interactive workshops to create a more sustainable and liveable Nillumbik. Sessions include a range of activities to help local residents reimagine our collective approach to energy and waste.

REthink events are collaborative, hands-on, and can help people take small actions that can lead to serious, positive change. They include practical demonstrations, creative activities, and simple ideas for rethinking everyday choices and behaviours. We want you to leave each session feeling motivated and empowered to make change. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come!

Image by Freepik