Even though the climate varies so much the people manage to cultivate a wide range of produce which includes both food plants and flowers. The variety of produce includes apples, pears, wheat, rice and peanuts (which fix nitrogen in the soil and are good to eat). When the season is right they also forage for wild plants for food and medicine. They practice companion planting and use organic fertilisers. The community is very involved in the welfare of its members (health, helping each other and gardening).

Shaoying arrived in Australia in 2002 and has worked for both the Chinese and Australian Governments promoting tourism and understanding of rural communities and their cultures.

Members found her talk informative and enjoyable and thanked Shaoying for her enlightened discussion.

Day Trip to Tathra

Thirty-six members enjoyed a coach trip to Tathra on Friday, June 21 when they visited "On the Perch", which is a 'bird zoo' or 'park'. The park is set up with several 'walk in' aviaries and many conventional bird displays. The grounds provide easy walking, as they are flat and have dedicated paths leading to the enclosures.

The birds aren't tame but are used to humans, which makes viewing relatively easy. Most of the birds are Australian natives with some exotic species as well. The aim of the zoo is education, with conservation and rehabilitation of injured birds important aspects of their plan. A quick visit to the orchid nursery at Brogo completed a great day out.

The club will meet again on July 25, in the Anglican Church hall at 2pm, with guests always welcome.