What a fantastic day! with 60 people getting real information on Organics and Managing Holistically.

Thanks to Warren and his family, for hosting the day and being so open with his business, principals and goals.  It is not very often we get the chance to see behind the front gate of someone that is making a difference in the food industry. It you would like to keep up to date with what BVB is up to check out their website http://www.blackwoodvalleybeef.com.au/ 

Steven McCoy was able to build on Warrens experience with a wealth of data that confirmed that there are opportunities within the organic production system.  His presentation on the steps to reach organic certification, certainly clarified the process for us all. His presentation slides can be viewed here. Steve is available for anyone who would like more information on the process of becoming certified and can be contacted on

Steven McCoy

Organic Food and Farming Development
Department of Agriculture and Food, Government of Western Australia
Ph (+61 8) 9368 3960 Mb 0424 147 408
Email steven.mccoy@agric.wa.gov.au

Information can also  be found on the Department of Agriculture and Foods site http://www.agric.wa.gov.au just search for organic

Jonnie Morton outlined the demand for organic oats internationally, is expanding, with Morton’s seeds expecting an increase in exports from 1000T to 3000T with no signs of demand slowing. Morton Seed and Grain are moving towards a system of environmental management and are enthusiastic that in the near future all products will be value added, including previous waste products. For more information feel free to contact Jonnie Morton on, 9434 2024 or email jonnie@mortongrain.com.au

While The Weston Meat Packers Group didn't give a presentation, they were represented by Craig Wood.   WMPG is a strong supporter of the Organic meat market and sees a very strong future in the sector. It has made significant investment in equipment that will allow access to more markets and there are premiums in the market, for high quality Organic Beef.  Western Meat Packers are always keen to hear from producers and can be contacted on 9241 4600 or visit www.wmpg.com.au

Dick Richardson was not only entertaining, but he was able to put everything we had heard about into the context of managing holistically.  Dicks way of making you think and question the why and how, is very unique and we hope to see him back over this side of the country soon.   Dick would be pleased to hear from you to discuss how you can incorporate holistic management into your system.  He can be contacted on 0429 069 001  or dick@bdynamic.org

A big thank you must also be given to South West Catchments Council, who’s support through the Bugs and Biology  Grower Group, made the day possible.

PS. If you missed the radio interview with Warren and Dick, on the  ABC rural report, by Jessica Strauss, you can listen to it here.

Why people came
* To look at microbes and soil rhyozobia and perennials - establishment and management 
* To see Robs place, to go to a bugs and biology meeting, to learn something new and be challenged 
* To learn about soil biology  

What worked well?
* Excellent tips on how to collect creepy crawlies using the lights over plastic filters and laptop version of microscope  
* The relaxed format and interaction with guest speakers 
* All speakers were good and we will try to do self analysis of basic microbes in the soil
 

YOUR COMMENTS ENCOURAGED! 
*** Have you bought a digital microscope?
*** Have you dyed some roots to assess mycorrhizal fungi presence?