How to get involved?
We have applied several times, through the Federal and State governments, for funding and so far, have been unsuccessful.
So we’ve established a Fund (bank account) for people to contribute to – small or medium or large sums of money, one off or on a regular basis, to help us implement the vision! Click HERE
OR if you have skills, connections, ideas or suggestions, please let us know – rebel@thehungryspirit.com
There are four primary areas we require capital for this project
1. Education
Provide workshops on Syntropic farming in Lightning Ridge, western NSW. These workshops will cover the principles and mechanics of Syntropic Farming and application in a semi-arid environment. Students will be educated in Syntropic Farming increasing the awareness and knowledge of holistic management and regeneration of landscapes using these methods.
When – As funding is available
Who will attend – Landowners in semi-arid zones, Indigenous land managers, Land management educators, backyard farmers, horticulture, grazing and farm managers, students (TAFE, University and school)
Delivered by – Thiago Gimenez Barbosa
Funding required – $5000
2. Demonstration Site
Establish a small 1ha demonstration site at THE Hungry Spirit Lightning Ridge, a community focused property on the edge of the opal fields that currently has a permaculture garden, a large shed used for events and functions and a commercial kitchen. The establishment phase would include earthworks, planting, a watering system and employment of a Project support officer (6hrs/week) who will be responsible for basic maintenance and developing community and volunteer engagement to ensure the project continues beyond initial funding.
The site will include a variety of fruit and nut trees, native timbers and Indigenous foods and medicine plants, vegetables and ground covers. It will make use of local crushed rock, woodchip and organic compost.
When: May 2020 – May 2022, with ongoing management by landowners, volunteers and through other funding obtained
Who will attend: The Demonstration site will be built using a mix of specialists (irrigation and earthworks) workshop participants and community volunteers. It will be done in a short period of time being led by Syntropic Farming expert Thiago Gimenez Barbosa
Funding required – $20,000/year (salary) + $10,000/year input costs (including trees, seeds,mulch etc)
3. Community engagement
Through 3 community open days, the 2 proposed workshops and 10 or more other activities over the two years of the project (including pruning, harvesting, preserving, planting etc) A minimum of 600 people will be engaged in the methods, practices and activity of Syntropic farming and be inspired to make changes in their own life and landscapes. Some will become volunteers and support the project long term.
When: 2021-2022
Who will attend: Landowners and land managers, School students, Indigneous groups, community members, regenerative farming practitioners and consultants, educators.
Deliver: these activities will be managed by the Project Support Officer, supported by the landowners where the demonstration site is and local volunteers who will be recruited and trained to provide support
Funding required – Nil
4. Scale
Develop a viable project proposal and relevant investment documentation to seek support for a larger scale project that includes broader outcomes including Indigenous employment, tourism, native food production and cultural outcomes.
When: As funding available
Who: The Indigenous landholders will be engaged from the beginning so they are part of the project at the outset (they have already expressed interest in a long term project and have access to suitable land and a large membership community)
Funding required – $10,000
