Local seedling venture blossoms

tools, tarpaulins and generators

• tents, plastic chairs and solar lighting

• non-perishable canned food, seeds to grow, water filers, kitchenware, pots, pans, utensils, can openers.

Donations can be dropped off at Manna Bookstore, Shellharbour Community Church, 500 Shellharbour Rd, 9.30am-3.30pm Tuesday to Friday or Sundays during service time. The Church is also calling for financial donations and direct deposits can be made to:

Account name: Global Care Shellharbour

BSB: 704 024

Acct no: 100 00 469

Description: Vanuatu (your name)

Some donations will be tax deductible. To check visit www.togetherforvanuatu.org or call 0491 056 640.

by Perrie Croshaw

Ian’s Living Herbs is the latest micro agricultural venture to start up on Alan Smith’s Jerrara Creek Farm.

Ian Johnson started building his seedling greenhouse there about 18 months ago, and the new seedling producer is now raising around 35 different varieties of vegetables, herbs and flower seedlings to sell at local markets.

Alan had previously supported Lauren and James, the New Growers of Jamberoo, who started a high-quality market garden on his land. But sadly, four months of heavy rains washed them out. Ian’s greenhouse is on higher land and is less affected by flooding.

“I put a post on Facebook saying I wanted to start a seedling business and Alan answered it and we went from there,” says Ian.

Alan says he’s prepared to give anybody a go with a start in agriculture.

“We have the land to diversify. This helps Ian as well as me. Ian provides the area

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with something people want. I get to diversity my acreage. Everybody wins.”

Ian believes growing your own fruit and vegetables can lead to a fitter and healthier nation and give you better value for money since you know what goes into your food.

He emphasises the importance of treating plants well and growing the right varieties for the right time of the year. “I don’t use chemicals. Any sprays I use to combat pests are approved by the organic society.

“I’ve been unwell on and off and have struggled with my disability. But I knew I could grow seedlings. I estimate it will be at least 3 years before I make any money. But I see market gardening as an important part of the Jamberoo community.”

Ian sells his seedlings at Kiama Farmers’ Markets on Wednesday, once a month at the Farmers’ Market in Berry and every Saturday at the Warrawong Trash and Treasure market.

by Perrie Croshaw