Larger Text Version click here

 
 
name July 2009

 
Contents
OGAWA e-newsletter is published at the beginning of each month. For enquiries please contact enews_editor@ogawa.org.au.
OGAWA has a new post office box address.  OGAWA Inc. PO Box 1512. Booragoon  WA  6954
Vice-President's report July 09

Hi all
By now you would have received your renewal notices together with the official notification of the AGM and a nomination form for the committee. A final agenda and amendments to the constitution will be emailed out to all members before the AGM.

The Organic Festival will start at 12.00 noon after the AGM (2nd August) and I hope that our commercial members will support this event by having a stall to promote your produce and/or business. If you are keen to have a stall, please contact Leanne Reid, who is the event coordinator – her email address is listed under the Fremantle group news.

In July, we are launching the new member-get-member scheme.  For every five new members you refer to OGAWA, you will receive a $25.00 gift voucher from one of our commercial producers.
Chopra
Dr Shiv & Nirmala Chopra with Dr Maggie Lilith
 

It is hoped that this will generate more members as well as promote our commercial members. The new membership forms will have a ‘referred by’ panel, so please remember to have your name on it when referring new members.

The Organic industry is under pressure – not only from GMOs but also from lack of general awareness in the community. Hence we need to increase the profile of the organic industry and support our growers and producers, and retailers. However, much of this requires dedicated hours of work so I ask that members consider joining the committee. The more people we have working to promote the industry, the larger our organisation, and more recognition from government, industry and community.

One issue that will be raised at the AGM is the future finances of OGAWA. Most peak bodies receive funding either from their industry or from government, or their membership fees are much higher (e.g. over $300). Obviously OGAWA do not receive any funding or high membership fees. As such, we have a situation where we need to actively seek funding, increase fees or suffer the fate of “bankruptcy”. You will note that we will be increasing (albeit only slightly) our membership fees from 3rd August. I have recently written a substantial grant application, but we are competing with many other not-for-profit organisations. Hence increasing memberships will also have a financial benefit to this organisation. Your help in ensuring the ongoing viability of this organisation is needed.

On the GM issue, our silent protest on the steps of Parliament House went well.  Thanks to the members who came to support the cause. The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Terry Redman eventually came out to speak with us – he has promised to reveal the “distance of the GM canola trials to your farms” if you ring the Ag Dept or his office. What good that information will do to prevent GM contamination is unclear to me.

For those who missed the article in the West, here’s the online version – you can also have a laugh at the “masked protestors” on the article http://www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=77&ContentID=147274 and on Farm Weekly Online
http://fw.farmonline.com.au/news/state/grains-and-cropping/general/gm-canola-up-as-protests-continue/1543504.aspx Photo taken by me and features OGAWA members …. try and guess the masked ones!

OGAWA also hosted Dr Shiv Chopra’s visit to Perth 20th – 22nd June which was highly successful. His main message was for us to call on the government to ban the use of antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, GMOs and slaughterhouse waste in food producing animals. As organic producers, we already adhere to these rules, so Dr Chopra called our food production not only ‘organic’ but natural!

NB – Since writing this article, I have received an update from one of our growers that information on GM canola farm locations are still difficult to ascertain. I urge that all growers within the shires where trials are held to continue pressuring your respective shires as well as the Minister’s office.

Maggie

mlilith@iprimus.com.au
join oga
Commercial

OGAWA Organic Update News
Global Organic Market: Time for Organic Plus Strategies...
The economic slowdown and changing consumer expectations are affecting global organic food sales. Consumers are demanding more from organic food products; they are increasingly looking at ethical sourcing, traceability, the carbon footprint, sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Organic food companies and retailers are advised to follow the pioneers and adopt Organic Plus strategies. More details...
(Source: organic monitor)

ACCC gives all clear to Woolworths’ Thomas Dux expansion plans
Australia’s competition watchdog has today advised that it will not oppose the acquisition of organic supermarket operator Macro Wholefoods by Australia’s largest supermarket operator, Woolworths. Woolworths announced the proposed takeover of Macro last month and plans to turn all Macro stores into outlets of their upmarket grocery subsidiary - Thomas Dux*. They will also acquire ownership
(Source: Aust food news) 

New Zealand: Fonterra Expects Organic Dairy sales to Treble  
Fonterra is targeting Waikato farmers in a campaign to treble its organic milk supply. Its Milk Supply marketing manager, Gillian Munnik, said international supermarkets could not get enough organic dairy products. 
(Source: organic monitor)

EU support ‘place of farming’ labels
The European Commission is considering expanding the use of food labels in the EU to show where the product was farmed. The step follows a Europe-wide consultation on the issue of food quality, and also an attempt to reconnect farmers with consumers. Farmers, producers and consumers voiced strong support for greater use of ‘place-of-farming’ labels. Such
(source: australian food news)

U.S. organic sales grow by a whopping 17.1 percent in 2008
U.S. sales of organic products, both food and non-food, reached $24.6 billion by the end of 2008, growing an impressive 17.1 percent over 2007 sales despite tough economic times.

Organic sector increasingly dependent on imports: USDA
04-Jun-2009 - The US organic sector has become increasingly dependent on imported ingredients as a supply squeeze continues to limit the sector’s growth, according to a new report from the US Department of Agriculture.
(source: foodnavigator)

Call for nominations - 2nd FIA Westpac WA food and beverage industry awards
Submissions for 8 award categories are now open. This year’s award categories are: Best Retail Product; Best Food Service Product; Innovation; Best Service to Industry; Best Marketing Campaign; Sustainability and Environment; Export and Best Supply Chain. Entries close 30 July 2009.
The overall winner will be awarded the 2009/10 Westpac Best Business of 2009. Award winners will be announced in a gala evening event with entertainment on Friday September 4, at the Burswood Entertainment Centre. For more details and application forms visit our website here.
 

Beef producers attend meat quality day
Organic & Biodynamic Meats Co-op beef producer members learnt about the finer details of MSA grading for meat eating qualities at DBC abattoir near Bunbury. Producers gained greater insight into the range of measurements taken to determine the MSA boning group of each carcass and how their farming practices like seasonal feeding patterns, breeds, weight, age and handling and can influence final meat quality. Boning group assessment provides the basis for aging and ultimate MSA eating quality rating. The grass fed organic cattle from the Co-op were reported to be grading well and were generally above the average quality of conventional cattle received by the abattoir.    

 

commercial report

Steven McCoy
Development Officer, Organic Food and Farming
Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia
Ph 08 9368 3960
Mb 0424 147 408
Fax 08 9368 3355

top ↑
Group Reports
FREMANTLE
OGA Freo next meeting:

when: Thursday 9th July.
6.55pm for 7.00pm start
where: The Meeting Place, 245 South Terrace, South Fremantle
price: members free $5 non members
speaker:  
topic: Slow Foods
 
veggies
Message from Leanne Reid

Hi Freo Growers,
On June 11th Kerry Sourdin from Worms on Wheels came to talk to us about composting worms.  It was a cold, wet, winter night, but we had a great turn out and Kerry is a very amusing and informative speaker, making the trudge from home well worth it.  Kerry will be providing a handout to back-up her talk and I will pass that to members when received.  Thanks very much Kerry for giving us such a great evening.
On the 9th July our meeting will be held in conjunction with Slow Foods, all attending will be bringing along a plate of food to share.  Preferably the dish will contain something that has been home grown in your garden.  Due to limited space we only have three more places available, so email ogafreo@yahoo.com if you are keen to join in the fun.
The OGAWA AGM is on 2 August at Piney Lakes Environment Centre.  The AGM is from 09:30-11:30 followed by an Organic Festival from 12:00-4:00.  The festival will have lots of organic stallholders and there will be guest speakers.  Please come to the AGM and consider standing for the committee – OGAWA needs your support. 
I am always seeking articles, information etc for the newsletter.  If you see/hear/create something you think we’d be interested in, please send it to me or bring it to the next meeting, held on the second Thursday of the Month.
I hope you have productive gardening.
­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
Leanne
Leanne.Reid@iinet.net.au
top ↑
ROLEYSTONE
OGA Roleystone next meeting

when: Wednesday July 8th
where: Roleystone Family Centre in Wygonda Rd., Roleystone
price: Members: free Visitors $3
speaker: Dr Ian Colquhoun
topic: Phytophthora dieback. 

Ian

Dr Ian Colquhoun
Message from Lisa

Hi Everyone,

We had  a fantastic meeting at Mower World last month .  Andrew and Craig showed us how to use our tools more effectively, what safety equipment we should use, and new tools to make our jobs easier in the garden! Some of the info was as follows:
On chainsaws-they showed us the safest way to start a chainsaw, how to maintain-its a good idea to give the chainsaw a little sharpen  every time you put in new oil. A little sharpening often keeps the chain in good nick and prevents the motor working harder than it has to and makes cutting easier. They have some you beaut chaps that protect your legs should the chainsaw go out of control and tries to eat your leg!
On whipper-snippers-they said only use the first inch or so of the end of the cord. If you get in too far it causes the motor to work harder and the cord inside can melt together. Also every few months stick your reel of cord in some water, this will prevent the cord from becoming brittle and useless.
They showed us a variety of safety gear-helmets, gaiters for the knee downwards, gloves etc. and much more.
If you haven't been to their new shop in Champion Drive across from the Westfield shopping centre, you might want to have a look! Tell them you are a member of Roleystone Organic Growers.

What to Grow-have a look at our web calendar: http://ogawa.roley.net/month.php?date=20080401

The July meeting of Roleystone Organic Growers will be all about Phytophthora (pronounced Fyt-of-thora) dieback. 

Phytophthora cinnamomi, often known simply as Dieback is a plant pathogen which is spread in soil and causes root rot in infected plants preventing them from absorbing water and nutrients which eventually causes the death of the plant. It can be easily spread in contaminated soil or plant material being moved from one area to another.

Dieback acts like a Biological Bulldozer in bush land by killing many susceptible plant species. Over 40% (or 2,300) of the native plant species and half of the endangered plant species in the south-west of Western Australia are susceptible.

When Dieback spreads to bush land, it kills many susceptible plants, resulting in a permanent degradation of the native vegetation. It can also change the composition of the bush land by increasing the number of grasses and reducing the number of wildflower species. Native animals that rely on susceptible plants for survival are reduced in numbers or are eliminated from sites infested by Dieback.

Our speaker, Roleystone resident, Dr Ian Colquhoun is Alcoa’s Mining Environmental Research Manager in Mining Environmental Department, in the area of dieback.  He  is also the chairperson of Roleybushcare and the Dieback Working Group.  He has been working in this area for 20  years.  Dr Colquhoun says “dieback is one of the most worrying issues threatening bio-diversity from Perth to Esperance.” "The Environmental Protection Authority has got it ranked up with climate change and salinity as a major issue.” “Dieback is widespread, but it's not everywhere and it's critical that people know that it's not everywhere.” There are large areas out there that are free of dieback, and what we have to do is manage those areas to make sure that dieback doesn't get in to those sites."

Dr Colquhoun will be discussing what Phytophthora dieback is, where it is, how the pathogen spreads, which plants are affected, what individuals can do to prevent it, and what the latest research is in this area.
The meeting will be on Wed. July 8th @ 7:30pm at the Roleystone Family Centre in Wygonda Rd., Roleystone Cost is $3. Enquiries to Lisa 9399 2312.

Cheers,
Lisa

top ↑
GWELUP
OGA Gwelup next meeting

when: 4th July 2009
where: phone for details
price: Entry $3, members free.
speakers:  
topic:  

 

garden
Message from Linda

Gwelup
A very informative meeting was held at Tracy’s house today.  Rick and Annie Dunn were our guest speakers and they had a wealth of experience to share.  They were both entertaining and informative with relevant stories about their market gardening days, answering lots of our questions along the way.  Some organic gardening tips they had were:
Ensure there are flowers in / near your vegie patch all year round for the good bugs like lacewings and ladybirds to live in.  eg. Fennel, alyssum etc.
Comfrey tea is a great fertiliser as comfrey can access soil nutrients which are unavailable to other plants
Fertilise little and often.
Don’t overuse compost – it will simply pollute our underground waterways.
Plant by the moon where possible – flowering plants especially seem to benefit from this by producing more flowers and thus fruit.
Practise crop rotation (keep records to ensure this is possible)
Wait for good bugs to eat pests if possible – only spray (natural products) if necessary.  Allow weaker plants to be attacked by pests, which in turn provides food for predatory insects, thus saving the stronger ones for harvesting.
Our next meeting for the second group will be on Sat 4th July at 2pm.
Bye for now…
Linda
top ↑
MUNDARING
OGA Mundaring next meeting

when: July. (second Tuesday of the month) 7.30.pm
where: Wahronga House, 2 Craig Street, Mundaring.
price: Entry $3,
speaker:  
topic: Worms
 

pruning
Message from Ralph Darlington

G'day everyone,

Fabulous rain were having aren't we?  It's taking a while to soak down to any depth as I found out when i was planting some native plants the other day.  The bottom of the hole was still dry, but this last lot of rain should sort that out.
Our Broccoli's will be enjoying this cool wet weather, they should taste great if it keeps going this way.  I won't even mention the weeds!
We have received our bags of Zeolite and Spongolite ( May's topic) to incorporate into our gardens.  We are hoping that this summer our plants will whether the heat better and need less watering after this addition.

Last month the topic for the evening was:  Choosing and pruning fruit trees.  A lively information and discussion session took place, the fact that some fruit trees need others to help pollinate each other became an important topic.

The rain is 'bucketing' down as I write this, it is causing the flowering Wattles to bow down their branches to the earth as they hold more water.  I hope that they don't split.!

Next month we hope to have a talk on Worms.  Will be confirmed soon.

May your gardens flourish,

Regards,
Ralph Darlington.

Any OGAWA members in the vicinity would be welcome at our meeting Ralph Darlington
email Ralph: darlington2@bigpond.com
top ↑
join oga
Organic Produce

Report from Rick Dunn from Absolutely Organic

While bananas from Carnarvon have slowed down we are now starting to see a few vegetables from that region such as sweet corn, zucchini, beans and green capsicum.
Be careful when eating the corn as some of it may have the budworm caterpillar in it. This is a caterpillar that loves the growing tip of the cob and can also be found in lupin pods. It is easy to control in sweet corn by applying a caterpillar bacteria, bacillus thuringiensis, when the corn cobs are starting to form. This is the same bacteria that they are putting in BT cotton to stop the budworm from attacking the cotton pods. Unfortunately the budworm is slowly building up a resistance to the bacteria because of its over use.   So, in the future, this may render one of the most effective caterpillar controls useless to organic growers.
We have been enjoying lovely local persimmons and mandarins, with some very tasty watermelon and kiwifruit from other States.  Our only supply of swede, turnips, peas and brussel sprouts are coming through from the East – wouldn't it be good to have local commercial supplies?

Rick Dunn 

organic veg
top ↑
Home Grown Gardening

Home Grown Gardening with Josh Byrne

 

Josh Byrne

Image by Michael Ward

   Winter has finally arrived in the south, bringing heavy rains and wild weather! The soil is moist, our rainwater tanks are full and for a few months at least, we can enjoy a break from the hot, dry conditions that have dominated summer and autumn. This is the season to rug up and enjoy a very different gardening environment.  OGAWA patron Josh Byrne shares some key tasks to keep in mind this month.

July Tips

  • Regularly check veggies for signs of snail damage and take action to keep them under control. Collecting them whilst they are active at night is the quickest way to clear up an infestation. Alternatively, homemade beer traps and strong coffee spray are both effective.
  • Damp conditions can cause strawberries to rot. Place wire mesh under plants to keep fruit off the ground and prune off dead leaves to improve light penetration and airflow.
  • Rotate chooks regularly to prevent soil getting compacted and sour. Mobile pens are perfect for this as they can easily be moved around the garden. If you have a fixed pen, partition the run, or add an additional one to make rotation possible. This also allows you to grow veggies or green feed crops in the yard that’s being rested.
  • Sow quick growing annual legumes like vetch and lupin in idle parts of the garden to protect the soil. When bare soil is exposed to rain nutrients are leached, surface erosion can occur and it becomes compacted. Cover cops protect the soil and keep the nutrients at the surface. The sacrificial plants can be slashed when you’re ready to plant you next crop.
  • There’s no need to irrigate at this time of year due to low evaporation rates and adequate rainfall. Water saved now will be vital for next summer so make sure your automatic irrigation system is turned off.

Job of the Month

Transplant deciduous trees and vines now that they are dormant. Prune damaged roots leaving a neat surface to reduce the chance of infection and make sure to backfill with a free draining soil mix to reduce the risk of root rot. Larger tees will need to be stabilized with sturdy posts or stays until the roots re-establish next season. 

Copyright Josh Byrne & Associates 2009

 
top ↑
The Greenhouse - Certified Organic
greenhouse ad  The Greenhouse produces Certified Organic top quality vegetable seedlings and potted herbs.  We also grow on a larger scale for the Market Gardener.  
At the Greenhouse we only use non-hybrid organic or biodynamic seeds.  We have various retail outlets and stalls in the Metro area where you can purchase our products.  We can also organise delivery to the South West.
For more information on where we are just visit our Web- www.thegreenhouseorganic.com or give Leesa a call on 0400 239258.
Say no to GMO

Network of Consumers for GM Free Food

Hi everyone,

The GM campaign has had a few successful events this month.

The Organic Growers staged their ‘silent vigil’ on the steps of Parliament to protest about how they have not been consulted or informed about the GM canola trials. Although very few politicians ventured out to speak to them it did attract a fair amount of press. There was coverage by WIN TV, and articles appeared in The West Australian, The Countryman and Rural Press. Many thanks to those of you who were able to take part in this action.  It sent a very clear message to all that Organic Growers have been silenced in this undemocratic process.
canola

The news that the shire of Nannup has declared itself GM free has been hailed as a great success. This now makes five of the eight shires in Terry Redman’s electorate to go GM free. Remember that these are the people that elected him into power on the platform of NOT growing GM canola. What part of ‘NO’ doesn't’t he understand?

Redman is off to the US and Canada on a fact-finding tour to discover ‘expert advice’ on GM crops and biofuels next month. Why not send him an email to remind him that he should visit some organic growers while there?
Send to    Minister.Redman@dpc.wa.gov.au
 
Some of you may have been fortunate to hear Dr Shiv Chopra speak about food safety recently. He is the Canadian whistleblower whose concerns, while working at Health Canada, led to the banning of genetically modified bovine growth hormone (rBGH). His safety ethics led him and two colleagues to be fired after opposing other products such as the use of antibiotics and hormones in animal food production. In Australia, promoting his book ‘Corrupt to the core’, he explains how multinationals pressure governments to overlook safety processes. He sees Australia as following the US and Canada in their reliance on GM producers to provide the necessary data for safety assessments.
 
Chopra says “It is our divine right as people of God and our constitutional right as people of Australia to eat and feed our families the food that earth produces naturally. Therefore we demand all contaminants to our food supply be banned by an act of parliament. The 5 items in question are GMOs, hormones, pesticides (including herbicides), antibiotics and rendered slaughterhouse wastes.”
 
Once you do that you end up with organic food, and what better legacy could we leave the future with?

Cheers, Janet
www.no-gmo.asn.au   

top ↑
Sponsor of the Month
logo 

WA Company Finalist in Australasian Food Awards

The Organic Fine Food Company, Bridgetown WA, has been announced as finalist in two categories of the 2009 Food Challenge Awards for their KidSnaK certified organic fruit snacks.   These awards are open to any food company large or small in Australia or New Zealand.  Errol Seymour, Managing Director, said: “it is pleasing to be selected as a finalist in both the Health and Wellness and Snack Foods categories, especially when we are competing with the corporate giants”.   The winners of each category will be announced in Sydney on 29 July.

 

KidSnaK has been in popular demand since its launch in July 2008 and is being sold successfully Australia wide. It was also finalist in the 2008 WA Food Industry Awards for Best Retail Product.  “KidSnaK is EVEN MORE HEALTHY NOW, WITH 99% CERTIFIED ORGANIC FRUIT” said Errol Seymour. “We have replaced concentrated fruit juice, which we were using as a sweetener, with stevia, which has almost no calories. We are the first organic company certified by NASAA (National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia) to be approved for stevia use, further demonstrating our innovative and progressive approach to making healthy snacks for children.”

Stevia is a totally natural, non-GMO sweetener, almost calorie free, which has been used in Japan for decades. The product used in KidSnaK is imported from Japan, and is manufactured to very high purity using natural processes from the South American herb Stevia Rabaudiana, now cultivated in many parts of the world. “The flavours of KidSnaK are now even better, because stevia tends to enhance other natural flavours ” said Errol.

KidSnaK fruit snacks are great treats for lunch boxes, and although they can be stored and eaten at room temperature, they can be chilled or frozen for refreshing snacks on a hot day. They are certified organic with no added sugar, no added concentrated fruit juice, no artificial colours, no artificial flavours and no preservatives. Natural colours and flavours are added to make the snacks attractive to children. They are sold in 130 g and 65 g tubs, in two-packs, four-packs and single tubs.

Wholesalers are Parks Fresh Produce in WA and Eco-Farms in the eastern states.  Mail orders can be placed direct with the manufacturer.
 
Bridgetown, 22 June 2009
Contacts Ph 9761 2901  Fax 9761 2905  Email:  admin@organicfinefood.com.au
www.organicfinefood.com.au
  

kidsnak products Thank you to the Organic Fine Food Company for their sponsorship of this newsletter
Events Report

List of forthcoming events
Events & Info
Organic Growers Association WA (Inc)
Sunday 2nd August 2009, Piney Lakes Environmental Centre, Leach Highway, Winthrop
Annual General Meeting from 9.30am – 11.30am

Organic Growers Association WA (Inc)
Sunday 2nd August 2009, Piney Lakes Environmental Centre, Leach Highway, Winthrop
12.00pm – 4.00pm OGAWA (Inc) is hosting an ‘Organic Festival’, come along and see the huge range of organic produce and services available in WA.  Ever wanted to grow your own organic produce?  We have all the information for you.

Organic Expo in Melbourne 24th – 26th July 2009 to discover a new range of exciting products and services that will delight your senses and tantalise your taste buds. More information is available at www.organicexpo.com.au.

Permaculture Design Course (PDC) 2009
2 Full time courses
August 10 – August 22. (Ghana)
Sept 7 – September 19. (Environmental Technology Centre, Murdoch University.) 9am – 4pm

The courses are taught by Greg Knibbs (and friends). Greg is a registered teacher with the Australian Permaculture Institute founded by Bill Mollison. Greg has worked on Permaculture projects with communities, non-government organisations and private companies in the Philippines, West Africa, Cambodia and Australia.

Cost for courses held at Murdoch Environmental Tech Centre (ETC) – $995 (included lunch/ snacks). Early registration discount of $95.00. Course details and registration at: www.internationalpermaculture.com/courses

More about Ghana PDC
Come to Ghana, get to know the people and culture and share in this 12 day Permaculture course. Visit local Permaculture sites and see what the members from the Ghana Permaculture Network are doing. Take part in helping to design the proposed Permaculture Demonstration Farm and Training Centre. Part of the course fees will help raise much needed funds to continue on the work that Greg and Paul are undertaking. 
See above website for more info.

Permaculture Intro and Hands On
Sept 21 – Sept 25 (5days)
Murdoch Environmental Technology Centre
Facilitated by Greg Knibbs
Cost: $495.00
Course details and registration at: www.internationalpermaculture.com/courses

 
top ↑
oga join
Members Discount Scheme

OGAWA Member Discount Scheme - Supporting businesses that promote organic food and farming
WA organic food and farming businesses offering discounts to members of OGAWA continues to grow. We thank these participating businesses for supporting the OGAWA and encourage all members to tell your friends about these great organic products and services available.
See below for the list of participating organic businesses.

The MDS is only available to current OGAWA members as shown by a valid membership card.
OGAWA Member Discount Scheme - Ask for your member discount from these participating businesses.  Simply display your member discount card with some ID to verify your OGAWA membership.

Membership Renewals    Download Ordinary Membership Forms $25    
Download Commercial Membership Application

Absolutely Organic WA.
Annie & Rick DUNN
782 North Beach Road
GWELUP
WA. 6018
Phone (08) 9242 7711
absolutelyorganicwa@iinet.net.au
5% discount on Food, Skin care, Books, Plants and Gardeners Supplies
Specialist retailers of certified organic products including fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy and all groceries as well skin care, books and garden supplies.
Contact us for helpful service and expert knowledge and from many years of experience.

Agonis Ridge Organic
Michael & Beverley PIMM
81 Barrett Road, Rosa Brook
MARGARET RIVER
WA. 6285
Phone: - (08) 9757 4525
Fax: - (08) 9757 4579
agonis@bluemaxx.com.au
10% on Farm Shop Sales
Producers of Premium Olive Oils , Kalamata Olives and Prime Beef & Lamb. Farm shop open Sunday 10am – 4pm. Other days please phone 9757 4525.

Bee Happy Apiaries & Candle
63 Sandplain Road, Toodyay.
www.beehappy.com.au
ph (08) 9574 2857
10% discount on honey & pollen
Deep in Western Australia's Avon Valley our bees are hard at work creating spectacular tasting honey from our native flowering shrubs and wildflowers. We produce delicious 100% natural organic honey, beeswax, and a variety of other natural bee products. Available from our Honey and Wildflower farm shop set in 170 acres of bush tracks and flowers.

Burnside Bungalows & Organic Farm
287 Burnside Road, Margaret River.
www.burnsidebungalows.com.au
ph (08) 9757 2139
Stay 3 nights or more and save 25% off standard rates. Excludes peak times, Christmas, Easter, Long Weekends and School Holidays
Avoid mass tourism, stay on a certified biodynamic farm. Private and luxurious self-contained one and two b/r bungalows with spas and wood fires. Enjoy forest walks, watching kangaroos and birdlife. Explore and learn about our farm with olives, avocados, macadamias, capers, fruit orchard, vegetable gardens and cows, sheep, usually pigs, chickens, geese and guinea pigs. Organic breakfast baskets available including farm produce and homemade sourdough. 24 hour bookings online

EA & MP Benwell
641 Chittering Valley Rd,
Lower Chittering.
Ph 0427 133 087
10% discount on farm gate sales price.
Located in the picturesque Chittering Valley, our certified organic citrus orchard produces delicious Navel and Valencia oranges, mandarins, limes and lemons.

eco peko
www.ecopekoshop.com.
Ph 0448 218 135
20% off anything - on the online store only.When a member puts in the code at checkout, they will receive 20% off the clothing (shipping not included). The number code will be given to them, once they email saying they are a OGAWA member, They will then be emailed the code
Beautiful clothes that don't cost the earth. Eco Peko's range of beautifully soft organic baby clothes comprises of t-shirts, kimonos and bibs.

Esselmont Estate
Lot 513, 86 Timberden Drive, Toodyay.
ph 9574 5419
www.esslemontestate.com
10% discount on farm gate sales of olive products
Visit Esslemont Estate, Toodyay,  producers of award winning olive oils. Dukkah, tapenade and table olives also available at our shop for tastings and sales. Open most days.

Figcreek Farm & country Temptations Café
72 South West Highway Donnybrook 6239
Ph 97312173
email: mdreaver1@optusnet.com
10% off all coffee menu prices
The farm grows beef fruit and eggs. The cafe sells organically certified products wholefoods and great organic coffee wholesale and retail. Wheat & gluten free cakes & biscuits - all made in cafe.

Gardeners Direct
www.gardenersdirect.com.au
10% discount on our range of garden and home care products (excluding items already discounted, advertised specials, bulk delivered products and raised garden beds).
Offers a comprehensive range of eco-friendly, chemical free, garden, home & personal care lines including home delivery.

Good Life Health Food Dogswamp
Catherine HANCOCK
Shop 7, Dog Swamp Shopping Centre
6 Wanneroo Rd
YOKINE
WA. 6060
Phone (08) 9443 1553
Fax (08) 9443 1553
Mobile 0416 140 027
catherine@goodlifehealth.com.au
10% discount – not including already discounted items
We are a family run Health food store stocking a large array of bulk and packaged organic foods as well as organic skin care, environmentally friendly cleaning products and nutritional and sports supplements. We also stock a large range of Gluten free foods. We have a full time Naturopath, Homoeopath and boost staff with over 40 years experience within the health food industry.

Herriot Wine
Graphite Road, Manjimup.
www.herriotwines.com.au
ph 9772 1048
10% discount on all purchases of cases of white or red wines including mixed or straight cases
If you're looking for distinctive wines that are full of character, then Herriot Wines will not disappoint. This family owned and operated boutique vineyard and winery is situated in the picturesque Karri Forests of Manjimup in the south west of Western Australia. Grapes are grown on the property, they are hand picked and the wine is made in the winery, bottled, labelled and sold through the cellar door and online. Our wine reflects the natural environment and the individuality of the site and region, which is evident in the enhanced aroma, structure and longevity.

High Vale Biodynamic
35 Merrivale Rd, Pickering Brook,
www.highvale.com
ph 0400 819 191
5% discount on retail farm gate sales
High Vale Biodynamic Orchard is regarded as a showcase for sustainable farming. Established in 1939 and set on an idyllic property only 30 minutes from the CBD, High Vale offers some of the finest biodynamic fruit and organic vegetables available in Perth. With their tasting room under construction, you can soon enjoy a relaxing place to enjoy a glass of our refreshing CORE cider, or gourmet treats with our range of biodynamic preserves.  High Vale is open to the public on Thursdays (9am-4pm) and Saturdays (10am-2pm). or phone through special orders at other times

LedaSwan Organic Winery
179 Memorial Ave, Baskerville.
www.ledaswan.com.au
ph 9296-0216
10% Discount on case sales (12 bottles) to members and on display of current OGAWA membership card we will donate 10% of the sale to OGAWA.  No member discount on already discounted lines. 
From the only family owned certified organic winery in the Swan Valley, Duncan Harris grows and produces organic wines on the premises. Open for tastings and sales from 11.00 am to 4.30 pm every day except Tuesdays.

  

Mardo Farm
VP& EA Farrell, 14 Hawke Road, Pemberton, Pemberton
www.mardofarm.com.au
ph 9776 1326
10% discount on avocados trays. 10% discount on whole baby beef. Conditions apply
We supply consistently high quality, nutrient dense, avocados and beef cattle vealers. Certified organic and practicing biodynamic methods. Our small holistically managed farm is located 16km SW of Pemberton, a scenic area of the state and the farm is tucked in beside the Warren National Park.

Merri Bee Organic Farm
Bee WINFIELD & Stewart SEESINK
Thomas Road
NANNUP
WA. 6275
Phone (08) 9756 1408
beewinfield@westnet.com.au
www.members.westnet.com.au/beewinfield/
Sides of pork for $14.00 a kg, delivered to Perth. Phone us to order your side of delicious free range organic pork
Producers of delicious organic NASAA certified vegetables and fruit, preserves, eggs, pork, beef, dairy products and wood smoked bacon.

Mimsbrook Organics  
65 Etwell Street
East Victoria Park  
Ph 94701011
carmelb@mimsbrook.com
www.biodynamic-food.com
10% discount on Mimsbrook grown Fruit & Vegetables

ORANJE TRACTOR WINES
Murray Gomm & Pam Lincoln
198 Link Road, Albany.
Ph 98425175
email: info@oranjetractor.com
www.oranjetractor.com
10% discount on case orders of red,white or sparkling wines.


Organic Farming Systems
Sue David
PO Box 419 Cottesloe WA 6911
Phone : (08) 9384 3789 Fax: (08) 9384 3379
www.organicfarming.com.au
5% Discount on soil and plant tissue analysis
Organic farming fertilisers and soil enhancers; soil and plant tissue analysis.

Redtail Ridge Olive Farm
Peter GAEBLER
3021 Donnybrook Road/ Boyupbrook Road
MUMBALLUP
WA. 6225
Phone (08) 9732 2146
Fax (08) 9732 2146
Mobile 0428 933 939
www.redtail-ridge.com
redtailridge@gmail.com
10% discount on Olive Oil and Table Olives
Producer of certified organic cold pressed extra virgin olive oil and table olives. Grown and bottled on the property by the founder, Peter Gaebler. Also produce prime beef and honey. Available at Western Farmers Market, Fremantle and City Farm Organic Farmers Market, East Perth.

Shoreline Essentials
Seashells Resort, Shop 3, Dolphin Drive,
Mandurah Ocean Arena, Mandurah,
http://www.shorelineessentials.com
5% blanket discount plus free membership to our 'frequent buyers' club.   every dollar spent = 3 points.  eg $330 spent = 990 and $25 gift voucher given to spend at shoreline essentials.
A new store opening next month in the Award Winning Mandurah Ocean Marina in the Seashell Resort complex, Mandurah.We aim to specialize in offering local produce from the Peel Region and South West of the state, including fresh veg, organic eggs, milk and cheeses, meats, gourmet food lines and other delicious, tasty fresh produce. Fresh made takeaway food is also available and a large range of giftware and baskets.

Spencers Brook Farm
Info@spencersbrookfarm.com.au
www.spencersbrookfarm.com.au
free 1 kg packet of our preservative free and gluten free sausages (variety subject to availability) with every ‘pig in the box' or ‘sheep in the box' order.
Our certified organic farm produces premium meat from our rare breed pigs, sheep and cattle. We make a delicious range of preservative and gluten free bacon, ham and sausages and also offer freezer boxes of our meat. We sell directly to our customers through farmer's markets and our website.

The Green Life Soil Co.
Lot 40 Farrall Rd North, Midvale, Ph 92504575
www.greenlifesoil.com.au
10% discount on bulk vegetable mix, vegetable concentrate soil mix, picked up from our yard.
Suppliers of Certified Organic soil mixes (available bagged or bulk), composts, manures, mulches, minerals & fertilisers, vegetable seedlings, heritage seeds, herbs, live worms and worm farms, native fish, composting toilets - etc!  We promote the practical use of Permaculture and organic gardening, and offer free advice to help get you started.  Open 8.30 - 5.00, Thurs - Tues.  (Closed Wednesday).

The Greenhouse
www.thegreenhouseorganic.com
Ph 0400 239 258
50c off per punnet ordered online
Suppliers of premium certified organic herb and vegetable seedings. Direct orders available online.

The Sandcastle
11/396 South Terrace, South Fremantle. Ph 9335 2445 www.sandcastleorganic.com.au
week nights (Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs) 25% discount up to the value of $45 (ie highest main course), not including public holidays or special events
The Sandcastle is a dining room experience in South Fremantle. Specialists in organic wine and local, low food miles and organic veg, organic meat and sustainable seafood. Sandcastle is a fine food wedding and corporate caterer, offering private dining in two rooms

Veggie Patch
www.veggiepatch.com.au
10% discount (excluding freight)
We supply a long lasting row cover fabric called Mikroclima that creates an ideal growing environment and protects plants from most insect pests and frosts, hail, high winds etc. It is available in packs suitable for home gardens and in rolls for horticultural use. The VeggiePatch web site has an on line shopping cart for easy ordering and payment.

Wambyn Olive Farm
York, ph (08) 9641 1491
10% discount on 20 litre drum of extra virgin olive. Limit of one per member per year.
Situated in the fertile Avon valley west of York, we hand produce on farm certified organic olive oil, table olives as well eggs, lupins and oats.

WR & MG Brock
102 Chittering St, Muchea. Ph 0418 886 451
5% Discount on all produce
Biodynamic Demeter certified producers of top quality seasonal fruits, vegetables, pork, baby beef and olive oil. Suppliers to top restaurants and hotels. Available from Mt Claremont Farmers Market, City Farm Organic Growers Market and Maggies Market.

Your Patch Organic Vegetable Gardening
http://yourpatchorganic.com/
|Phone: 1300 880 744
free first month maintenance on installed garden patch.
We install an organic vegetable garden for you and plant it out with a delicious crop. And drop by every fortnight to take care of it and plant new seasonal crops. You get to pick fresh produce from your own garden every day.

 OGAWA Member Discount Scheme Supporting businesses that promote organic food and farming
top ↑
Notices
  Wanted - your notices, events and articles    

This is you space to post notices or tell us of your event please contact enquiries@ogawa.org.au to forward your notices.
USEFUL LINKS
Sustainable Gardening Association      http://www.sgaonline.org.au/media_info.html
Sustainable Gardening Australia (SGA) is a non-government, non-profit organisation founded in 2003 to raise awareness of the environmental consequences of conventional gardening practices and to provide realistic and sustainable alternatives.
Eden Seeds  http://www.edenseeds.com.au/content/default.asp
OUR AIM is to distribute old traditional open pollinated varieties of vegetable seed, preferably old Australian varieties and organically or bio-dynamically grown where possible.

Green Harvest Organic Gardening Supplies 
http://www.greenharvest.com.au/index.htm
Violeta's
http://www.violetasgarden.net.au/ or ph 9399 9747. Her hours are T-Th-Fri 8:30-5pm Sat -Sun 10-5pm Closed Mon and Wed
Great Gardens
http://www.greatgardens.info/
Zanthorrea
http://zanthorrea.com/bush_telegraph.php
Peter Coppin
http://www.petercoppin.com/
Gardenate  veggie planting updates
http://www.gardenate.com
VeggiePatch
http://www.veggiepatch.com.au
email:  veggiepatch@westnet.com.au      

VeggiePatch has a great product that excludes the pests without chemicals!  Mikroclima is a simple idea will help your garden veggies grow strong and healthy and protect them from pests and damage from bad weather.   Mikroclima excludes most insects which effectively stops the need for other types of insect control.

-There was a book published  about growing vegies in WA the 1940's and has been revised many times. The latest 2004 revised version is on line  and is full of lots of good info:
Vegetable Growing In Western Australia
http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/content/hort/veg/cp/bull4629.htm

The Green Gardener   by Josh Byrne    http://www.joshbyrne.com.au/
top ↑

ADVERTISEMENTS -
please enquire for advertising rates

advertise here
Information:  

Welcome to our e-newsletter

Welcome to the Organic Growers Association of Western Australia's July 2009 edition of our paper-free electronic newsletter. We will be publishing a newsletter monthly and welcome articles, contributions and advertising from members and friends. (Please send to Tanya Jackson) Please ensure that we have your updated email address as our database has many invalid addresses where people have changed their details and not advised us. To subscribe or unsubscribe please contact Sue enews_editor@ogawa.org.au

Your email account must be set to receive emails in HTML format to read this newsletter alternatively there is a link to view the page on our website


top ↑
 
 
logo