A family of 8 stayed in early July, and had such a great time that the kids didn’t want to leave!  Their two youngest enjoyed pulling up carrots from the veggie patch, whilst the others enjoyed bush walking, kite flying and playing tennis. It was great to see Mum and Dad really relax and “let their hair down” as they watched their kids break free of normal routine and be kids, but most importantly they got to spend some quality time together as a family in this wonderful natural environment.  

2 weeks ago brought a family of 5 with an Aunt and Uncle also, which was wonderful to have an extended family come together and share in this splendid spot. Wombat sightings were a treat for their oldest child whilst out on winter bush walks with her family. They had a wonderful time, and enjoyed the space and time to sit together and talk without any of life’s usual interruptions, such as the phone calls, school runs or doctor appointments.

Since the launch of our National Green Jobs Corps program, lots of work is being done on site, and it is great to see the north garden half way through a major restoration. Our enthusiastic Caitlin’s Park Rangers, have eradicated noxious weeds from this prominent garden bed, and will soon replant it with local indigenous species that will not only tolerate local conditions but provide valuable habitat and food for local fauna.

The permaculture garden is progressing nicely, with the orchard plantings completed this week. Varieties of stone fruit, apples, pears and pomegranates have been planted and will soon bud as the warmer weather begins. The vegetable gardens have been providing the house and our guests with winter vegetables for a few months now, and soon it will be time to sow some seeds for summer crops

The first stage of the chicken coup is complete, and we have two lovely hens who have taken up residency. They are still very young, and will not be at point of lay for another 2 months or so, but we are looking to increase our flock over the next couple of weeks.

Don’t forget, donations of $2 or more to People & Parks Foundation for the Caitlin’s Retreat program are tax deductible. Make a donation today!