The Groundswell Collective

Lake Mac Eco Drinks
2025-02-13 18:00 - 19:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Great Northern Hotel, Teralba, 2 Anzac Parade, Teralba, NSW, Australia
Join the team from The Groundswell Collective and ReNewy Living for Lake Mac Eco Drinks.

If you’re interested in sustainable living, gardening, and/or the natural environment and keen to meet other like-minded locals, please join us on Thursday 13 February from 6pm to 7:30pm at the Great Northern Hotel in Teralba.

You’re welcome to just drop in – stay for a drink or join us for dinner.

Seed Processing Session
2025-03-12 09:30 - 11:00 | Cardiff Library, Main Road, Cardiff, NSW, 2285, Australia
We need some help to process and package the next batch of locally grown seeds to restock the Lake Mac Seed Library.

No experience necessary just come along and meet some likeminded people and help the Seed Library.

Registration is essential.

Edible Gardens Workshop
2025-03-15 09:30 - 11:00 | Shelley St Community Garden, Toronto, Toronto, NSW, Australia
Edible Gardens Workshop – how to get growing quickly, cheaply and sustainably.

There’s nothing quite like wandering through your backyard and picking ingredients for your next meal. Growing your own food has so many benefits but how do you get started?

Join us for a two hour workshop where you’ll discover how to garden with maximum bang for your buck and minimal impact on the planet.

The Edible Gardens Workshop covers:

the best size, shape and placement for your new garden

the pros and cons of sustainable materials to construct and fill your new beds

what to grow and where to get seeds and seedlings for free

how to care for your new eco system and troubleshoot common garden problems

Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to expand your existing garden, the Edible Gardens Workshop will show you how to do it quickly, cheaply and sustainably.

The workshop is hosted by Shelley St Community Garden, beginning with an interactive garden tour followed by undercover outdoor learning. In the event of poor weather, the workshop may be moved to a different venue or rescheduled to an alternative date.

Edible Gardens Workshop
Saturday 15 March
9:30am to 11:30am
Shelley St Community Garden
$20 per adult

If there’s a child in your life with a particular interest in gardening, please contact us to discuss bringing them with you.

The venue address will be sent to you in the booking confirmation email.

Tool Sharpening and Maintenance Workshop
2025-03-21 09:00 - 11:00 | Shelley St Community Garden, Toronto, Toronto, NSW, Australia
Ever wished you could sharpen, repair and maintain your own gardening tools?

Come and learn how with experienced repairer, Gavin Ord.

The Groundswell Collective is delighted to host this hands on workshop at Shelley St Community Garden, Toronto, where you’ll see demonstrations of how to care for your tools before trying the techniques yourself.

Places are very limited to maximise your learning experience.

Book your place, gather your tools and we’ll see you there!

No Safe Seat
2025-03-30 15:00 - 16:30 | Landcare and Sustainable Living Centre, 80 Toronto Road, Booragul, NSW, Australia
Join us for a screening of No Safe Seat, a short film by Climate 200 about independent candidates and their potential to change Australia’s two-party system.
After the screening, we’ll take you through all the local candidates and their climate commitments, and discuss how you can best vote for climate action at the upcoming federal election.
Don’t miss this chance to be informed and make your vote count.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Doors open at 3pm and close at 3:15pm to avoid interruption to the film.

Eraring Tiny Forest Community Planting Day
2025-04-05 09:00 - 11:30 | Eraring
Community Planting Day – Let’s Grow a Tiny Forest at Eraring!

We’re going BIG with this one – our BIGGEST tiny forest yet!

Can we plant 1,500 plants in just 2.5 hours? With your help, we reckon we can!

When? Saturday 5 April, 9:00am – 11:30am
Where? Eraring (We’ll email you the exact spot once you book. It’s about 45mins from Newcastle, 25mins from Warners Bay and 45mins from Gosford so organise a crew and carpool together)

What to bring: Comfy, sun-smart clothes Enclosed shoes A hat A water bottle Gardening gloves & a trowel (if you have them)

We’ll be planting, watering, and getting our hands dirty – all in the name of restoring nature and offsetting carbon. It’s a great way to give back to the planet and connect with your community.

Kids are welcome. Please make sure they’re supervised and grab a free ticket for everyone coming along.

Let’s dig in and make a difference – together!

Redhead Seed Library Launch
2025-05-24 14:30 - 15:30 | Redhead Community Library, 16 Hutchinson Street, Red Head, NSW, 2290, Australia
Join us for the launch of Lake Macquarie’s 6th Seed Library—and the very first on the eastern side of the lake. This exciting new chapter for Redhead is all about community-led change, growing local, and celebrating the power of seeds to connect us.
PROGRAM:
12:30–2:30pm — Greenpatch Seed Saving Workshop
Whether you’re seed-curious or a seasoned grower, this interactive workshop will teach you:
Why seed saving matters for biodiversity and food security
How to isolate, pollinate, harvest, clean, and store seeds
Tips for maintaining heirloom genetics at home
Led by experts from Greenpatch Organic Seeds as part of Lake Mac Grows, this hands-on session will leave you ready to start your own seed-saving journey.
https://redheadseedsaving.eventbrite.com.au
2:30–3:30pm — Creative & Family-Friendly Activities with Groundswell Collective
Get your hands dirty (and have a little fun!) with:
Seed ball making
Seed packaging fun
Nature-inspired art activities
Perfect for kids, curious grown-ups, and anyone wanting to support grassroots climate action in a joyful way.
WHY COME?
By attending, you’ll help celebrate the launch of Redhead’s new Seed Library—a free, local resource for borrowing and returning seeds to support resilient, sustainable gardening in your neighbourhood.
Together, we’re planting seeds of hope, community, and environmental stewardship.
SUPPORTED BY:
The Groundswell Collective
Redhead Sustainable Neighbourhood Group
Redhead Community Library
Seed Library Funded by Origin Energy
Proudly part of Lake Mac Grows, a Lake Macquarie City Council initiative
Bring your family, bring your questions, and bring your love of the earth. We’d love to see you there.

Windmill Lodge Tiny Forest Planting Day – Maryland
2025-06-21 10:00 - 23:30 | Maryland, Available on Booking, NSW, Australia
Join us at Windmill Lodge in Maryland for a community planting day as we bring a new Tiny Forest to life.
We’ll be planting, watering, and working together to restore nature, increase biodiversity, and take positive climate action—one tiny tree at a time. After planting, you’re invited to stay for a casual BBQ lunch and connect with other locals who care about the environment.
This event is part of the Tiny Forest movement, a global approach to regenerating small, densely planted forests using native species. These forests grow fast, support biodiversity, sequester carbon, and create meaningful green spaces in both urban and rural areas.
The planting is led by The Groundswell Collective, a local not-for-profit working across NSW to inspire climate action through hands-on environmental projects. By getting involved, you’re helping create habitat, improve soil health, and build climate resilience right where you live.
All ages are welcome. Just make sure children are supervised and book a free ticket for everyone attending.
What to bring:

Comfortable, sun-smart clothes

Enclosed shoes

A hat

A water bottle

Gardening gloves and a trowel (if you have them)

Accessibility & Parking:
Full access details will be sent via email once you register.
Thank You:
We’re grateful to the landholders at Windmill Lodge for generously offering their property for this project. Their support—and yours—is helping us create living ecosystems and stronger communities.
Thanks also to Carbon Positive Australia for providing funding support for this project. Their commitment to restoring ecosystems and empowering community action is helping tiny forests grow and thrive.

DYI Self-Watering Propagation Station and Seed Processing Workshop
2025-08-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Cardiff Library, Main Road, Cardiff, NSW, 2285, Australia
Learn how to make your own self-watering propagation unit and process seeds as part of the Lake Mac Seed Library at Cardiff Library.

This clever DIY setup includes a built-in water reservoir and sticking medium —perfect for starting cuttings and growing plants at home with minimal fuss.
After the workshop, we’ll roll up our sleeves to clean, process and package seeds into the Lake Mac Seed Library. No experience is necessary, you will learn everything as you go.
Cost: Free

Backyard Habitat Part 1: Wildlife-Friendly Gardens
2025-08-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Singleton Art Centre
Join award-winning environmental educators for a hands-on sustainability workshop.
Create a wildlife-friendly backyard garden with native plants. Learn proven habitat gardening techniques for attracting local birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Discover how to provide food, water, shelter, and nesting sites. Take home a free native plant starter to begin your sustainable garden transformation.
Perfect for home gardeners, educators, community members.
Presented by The Groundswell Collective in partnership with Singleton Council Environmental Services and the Singleton Arts + Cultural Centre.

Volunteer Welcome Day – The Groundswell Collective
2025-08-30 15:00 - 16:30 | Lake Mac Tiny Forest
The Groundswell Collective invites you to join our amazing volunteer community. Together, we plant and care for Tiny Forests, run workshops with children, grow a community garden in Toronto every week, package up seeds and contribute to citizen science projects that tracks our impact.
This Volunteer Welcome Day is your chance to:
🌱 Meet our friendly volunteer crew
🌿 Learn about our projects and upcoming events
🪴 See the Lake Mac Tiny Forest in action
💚 Find the right role for your skills and interests
Whether you’re an experienced volunteer or just starting out, we have a place for you. Younger volunteers are also welcome (parental consent required if under 18).
📅 Date: Saturday 30 August 2025
🕒 Time: 3:00pm–4:30pm
📍 Location: Lake Mac Tiny Forest (Lake Cresent, Teralba)
Bring your enthusiasm and curiosity — we’ll bring the tea, coffee, and cake!
Can’t attend in person? Fill in this form and let us know your interests and we will arrange a time to call you and tell you more about the opportunities: EOI form
Cost: Free
Accessibility: Outdoor event please let us know if you have access needs.

Movie Night: Future Council
2025-09-04 18:00 - 20:00 | NSW
Join us for a powerful evening that connects this wonderful film to the young people in our community and inspires action.
📽️ Future Council is an uplifting documentary from Damon Gameau (2040, That Sugar Film), who takes eight children on the ultimate school excursion: a road trip across Europe to meet changemakers, challenge corporate leaders, and uncover real solutions to the climate crisis.
It’s a hopeful and empowering vision of what’s possible when young voices are heard and communities come together to shape a better future.

This special screening is a fundraiser for The Groundswell Collective’s creative environmental programs—initiatives that restore nature, empower communities, and give children a tangible sense of hope and agency.
📍 Location: Lake Cinema, Boolaroo
📅 Date: Thursday 4 September
🕕 Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm (doors open 5:45pm)
🍇 Light refreshments provided
🎟️ Tickets:

Adults: $20
Children: $12
Eco-Champion $100 (adult ticket and $90 donation to TGC),
Eco-Friend $50 (Adult ticket and $40 donation to TGC)

A portion of the ticket price supports The Groundswell Collective’s (TGC) projects, from planting Tiny Forests to running hands-on workshops in schools, nurturing a future where people and planet thrive.
Let’s gather, be inspired, and grow something better together.

Nature Makers: Art, Garden & Growing Together (Family Workshops)
2025-09-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Landcare and Sustainable Living Centre, 80 Toronto Road, Booragul, NSW, Australia
Get creative, get muddy, and grow something beautiful together!
This joyful, hands-on workshop series invites families to explore the wonders of nature through gardening, eco-friendly crafts, and environmental learning. Each month, you’ll take part in guided outdoor activities, collaborative art-making, and create a garden-inspired project to take home.
All materials are provided. Sessions are fun, relaxed, and designed to help children and their grown-ups connect with the earth, with each other, and with their community.
Thanks to a generous Lake Macquarie City Council Environmental Grant all workshops are free to attend!
Spots are limited so book early to avoid missing out.

🌱 Workshop Program:

🍃 Leafy Legends: Create a Tiny Native Garden
Sunday 10th August
Dig in and discover the power of native plants!
🌿 Learn why native gardens are important for local wildlife
🪴 Plant your own mini native garden in a recycled container
🍂 Join a collaborative leaf art project
🌳 Take a guided walk through the Lake Mac Tiny Forest

🌾 Seed Stories: Grow and Create with Native Seeds
Sunday 7th September
Celebrate the magic of seeds through story and soil!
📖 Explore plant life cycles through storytelling
👐 Make seed balls to grow native plants at home
🌼 Learn how seeds support wildlife and ecosystems
🎨 Create seed-inspired art

🐝 Buzzing Buddies: Create a Native Bee Haven
Sunday 12th October
Discover the buzz about bees and how to help them thrive!
🐝 Learn about Australia’s amazing native pollinators
🌸 Plant a bee-friendly flowering pot
🏡 Build a mini bee hotel with natural and recycled materials
🎨 Make buzzing bee art and explore an ID chart

🐸 Fabulous Frogs: Build a Backyard Frog Hotel
Sunday 9th November
Leap into frog life and wetland wonder!
🐸 Explore the world of frogs and their vital habitats
🏕️ Build a frog hotel to support local amphibians
💧 Learn about wetlands and water conservation
🎨 Join in a frog-themed collaborative mural

🕊️ Feathered Friends: Craft a Bird Haven
Sunday 8th February
Welcome birds into your backyard with simple handmade habitats!
🕊️ Learn to identify local bird species
🛁 Make a bird bath or nesting buffet
🌿 Explore ways to support birds at home
🎨 Create art inspired by feathered friends

🪲 Nature’s Recyclers: Build a Bug Hotel
Sunday 8th March
Celebrate the tiny critters that keep ecosystems thriving!
🪲 Discover the important roles of beneficial insects
🏡 Build your own bug hotel using eco-friendly and recycled materials
🌏 Learn how to create insect-friendly spaces at home
🎨 Contribute to a collaborative mini-beast masterpiece

📍 Location: Landcare and Sustainable Living Centre, umali barai-ku
🕒 Time: 10am to 11:30am
Come for one workshop or come for them all. Every session is a new adventure in growing, making and learning together.

Living Smart Festival
2025-09-20 09:00 - 14:00 | NSW
he Groundswell Collective at the Living Smart Festival
The Groundswell Collective is excited to be part of the 2025 Living Smart Festival on Saturday 20 September at Speers Point Park.
🌱 Program Highlights:

10:00am – Story Time with Anna Scobie: Gather in the kids’ space for a special reading of The Tiny Forest, a children’s book illustrated by Anna Scobie that inspires young readers to imagine how small actions can grow into big change.

Biodiversity in Tiny Forests with Anna Noon: Learn how Tiny Forests restore habitat, strengthen community, and help tackle climate change through this engaging talk.

The Bee Hotel Sculptural Project (all day): Festival-goers are invited to help co-create a living sculpture bee hotel, designed by artist Kelly Lees and filled with natural and repurposed materials. This evolving artwork will support solitary native bees and, after the festival, will find its permanent home at the Lake Macquarie Sustainability Centre in Booragul.

Held on the traditional lands of the Awabakal People, the Living Smart Festival is one of Australia’s largest community sustainability events, attracting more than 10,000 visitors each year. The festival runs from 9am–3pm, featuring headline guest Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, free workshops, demonstrations, markets, food trucks, and community-led activities.
Come along, be inspired, and take part in creative, hands-on projects that celebrate biodiversity, community, and climate action with The Groundswell Collective.

Buzzing with Native Bees: Family Workshop
2025-10-02 10:30 - 11:30 | Singleton Art Centre
Join our hands-on native bee workshop designed for families with children aged 3-10 to explore Australia’s amazing native pollinators. Through interactive storytelling, craft activities, and sensory play, kids will learn about Australian native bee species while building mini bee hotels and creating pollinator-friendly seed balls to take home.
Perfect for families with children aged 3-8.
Presented by The Groundswell Collective in partnership with Singleton Council Environmental Services and the Singleton Arts + Cultural Centre.

Wisdom Walk
2025-10-19 08:45 - 11:00 | NSW
Have you ever been on a Wisdom Walk?
It’s where you take a walk in the great outdoors to intentionally connect with nature, renew your energy and get clarity on life’s big questions.
Katie has been taking Wisdom Walks for years, escaping into the bush whenever she feels overwhelmed by the climate crisis, frustrated by the actions of politicians, or unsure how to make a positive difference in this world.
Now seems like a good time to open up these Wisdom Walks to others to help calm climate anxiety, reconnect with the living world we want to preserve, and remember why we love it.
During the walk, Katie will guide you through some activities to connect with nature in different ways, find peace amongst the despair, and receive insights about any issues that might be on your mind.
The walk will move at a gentle pace and there are no special fitness requirements.
Location: bushland between Warners Bay and Toronto (the exact address will be provided in your booking confirmation)
Walking Distance: approximately 4km
Terrain: undulating bush track with a loose surface in parts and a few stairs
Equipment: wear sun-safe clothing, a hat, and joggers or hiking boots. Bring a bottle of water and a small notebook and pen.
Includes: morning tea

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About Katie
Katie has many years experience as a meditation teacher and facilitator of personal development workshops and retreats. After re-training in sustainability and becoming an advocate for living lightly on the planet, Katie believes reconnecting people with nature will allow us all to thrive.
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Crop Swap at Shelley St Community Garden
2025-10-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Shelley St Community Garden, Toronto, Toronto, NSW, Australia
We’re hosting Crop Swap at Shelley St Community Garden and we’ve got quite the morning planned!
Bring your excess fruit and veg, eggs, newspapers, seedlings and similar to share with fellow growers.
Enjoy a homemade morning tea (by donation) and our mini seed saving workshops at 9:30am and 10:30am to learn how to collect and store seeds.

The Groundswell Collective Christmas Party
2025-12-07 15:30 - 17:30 | Cardiff Heights, NSW, Australia
It has been a huge 12 months for The Groundswell Collective and we’re ready to celebrate in a big way to bring the year to a close!

This year we’re gathering at the Cardiff Heights twin tiny forests so you can see how they’re growing at 1 and 2 years old respectively.

There will be food, drink, craft activities for the kids, and Christmas table decorations from nature.

We’ll also have copies of our children’s book The Tiny Forest for sale in case you need a gift for a young person in your life.

Things to note: so we can be as sustainable as possible, please bring a reusable cup to drink from at the party. A folding chair is also a good idea as seating will be limited.

If you haven’t been to the Cardiff Heights tiny forests before, please be aware that access is via a moderately steep driveway, approximately 120 metres long. Please consider your physical abilities before registering.

Pearl Beach to Patonga Walk
2026-01-11 08:00 - 15:30 | Pearl Beach
This is the year we get out and enjoy more of the beautiful world around us!
Please join us for a relaxed walk from Pearl Beach to Patonga on the Central Coast.
We’ll carpool to Pearl Beach from Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, walk to Patonga for lunch at The Boathouse (or BYO lunch to eat on the beach) then walk back to Pearl Beach.
Expect to see magnificent coastal views, have morning tea in a cave, and make new friends on the trail.
Here are the details:
When: Sunday 11 January
Walk: Pearl Beach to Patonga, lunch then return

Distance: 8 to 9kms
Elevation: approximately 250m
Cost: free
What To Bring: minimum 500ml water per person (water bottles can be refilled at Patonga for the walk back), snacks for morning and afternoon tea, a way to pay for lunch at the pub or BYO lunch to eat on the beach, swimmers and a towel if you want to take a dip at Pearl Beach at the end of the walk, sunscreen and insect repellent

What To Wear: fully enclosed shoes such as walking boots or joggers/sneakers, sun-safe clothing and a hat

Important Info: there’s likely to be a water crossing when we get to Patonga. It’s less than 10 metres wide and usually below knee height so be prepared to take off your shoes and socks and roll up your pant legs. If walking barefoot through water and/or on sand is not for you, bring some reef shoes or thongs to change into for that section.

Timing: We have a meeting point at 8am in Lake Macquarie – please register for the details. We will condense into fewer cars and hop onto the highway for the approximately one hour journey to Pearl Beach.

Want to join us?

Please complete the booking form and we’ll be in touch.

Bouddi Coastal Walk
2026-02-15 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
This is the year we get out and enjoy more of the beautiful world around us!
Please join us for a relaxed walk between MacMasters Beach and Putty Beach along Bouddi Coastal Walk.
We’ll carpool to the starting point from Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, stop for lunch along the way then do a car shuffle back to the start.
Expect to see magnificent coastal views, including the Tessellated Pavement, and make new friends on the trail.
Here are the details:
When: Sunday 15 February
Walk: Bouddi Coastal Walk

Distance: 9kms
Elevation: approximately 400m
Cost: free*
What To Bring: minimum 1 litre of water per person, snacks for morning and afternoon tea, lunch to eat on the beach, swimmers and a towel if you want to take a dip, sunscreen and insect repellent

*Parking at Putty Beach costs $8 per vehicle per day so please bring some coins to contribute.

What To Wear: fully enclosed shoes such as walking boots or joggers/sneakers, sun-safe clothing and a hat

Important Info: we will need to do a car shuffle, leaving a car or two at the end of the walk so we can drive back to the start. The direction of the walk will be determined closer to the day ie. whether we start at MacMasters Beach or Putty Beach.

Timing: We have a meeting point at 8am in Lake Macquarie – please register for the details. We will condense into fewer cars and hop onto the highway for the approximately one hour journey south.

Want to join us?

Please complete the booking form and we’ll be in touch.

Saving Seed in a Home Kitchen Garden
2026-02-25 09:30 - 11:30 | Cardiff Library, Main Road, Cardiff, NSW, 2285, Australia
Join us for a relaxed and hands-on Seed Saving Workshop and Packaging Session at Cardiff Library.
Seeds of Resilience is a new monthly program that meets on the first Wednesday of each month (9:30am-11:30am) at rotating seed library branches, supporting local seed sharing and community resilience.
This session will feature guest presenter Anthea from Maplewood Permaculture, who will share practical, beginner-friendly approaches to:

Saving seed in a home kitchen garden
Succession planting for year-round harvests
Choosing varieties that grow well in your local conditions

Anthea and her partner Will are garden educators and designers based in Paterson in the Hunter Valley, known for making permaculture simple, practical, and easy to understand. Anthea brings warmth, clarity, and real-world gardening experience — helping people feel confident, no matter their starting point.
Together, they have shared their knowledge through schools, libraries, councils, festivals, growers’ markets, and community programs, and are co-founders of Permaculture at the Pub. Their small farm is where they test, refine, and grow through the seasons.
Anthea has completed Permaculture Teacher Training with Hannah Moloney and Brenna Quinlan, and is currently studying with David Holmgren, Beck Lowe and guest educators in the 2026 PDC. Their combined background includes horticulture, naturalistic garden design, Master Tree Growers, education, arts, and children’s services.
Alongside the workshop, participants will help pack and label seeds for the Lake Mac Seed Library, supporting local biodiversity, food security, and community connection.
☕ A relaxed, social morning tea, conversation, and curiosity encouraged.
With thanks to Australia Post for supporting community seed sharing and well being initiatives.

What to Expect

Seed packing and labelling for the Lake Mac Seed Library
Kitchen garden seed saving tips
Succession planting for year-round harvests
Learn how seed libraries work and how to get involved
Meet local gardeners and community members

Who Should Attend

Beginner and experienced gardeners
Seed savers and seed sharers
Families and community members
Anyone interested in growing and sharing locally adapted food

No experience required — just come along and join in.

Backyard Biodiversity: Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden
2026-02-26 18:30 - 20:00 | NSW
Discover how to turn your garden into a living ecosystem that supports birds, butterflies, bees and beneficial insects.
In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn proven habitat gardening techniques using native plants and simple design strategies. We’ll explore how to provide the four essentials for wildlife: food, water, shelter and nesting sites, and look at real-life examples of backyard biodiversity in action.
You’ll also have time to begin designing habitat zones for your own yard, with guidance from our educators.

What you’ll learn:

How to attract native birds, butterflies and beneficial insects
Choosing the right native plants for your space
Creating habitat through layering, water sources and shelter
Simple design strategies for real backyards
How small changes can make a big ecological impact

Who this is for:
Home gardeners, educators, renters, families, community members — anyone who wants to support nature at home.
Please bring:
A satellite image of your yard (printed or on a tablet/phone) so you can map out your design ideas during the workshop.
Dates & Time:

Thursday 26 February, 6:30pm – 8:00pm -Backyard Biodiversity (Part 1)
Thursday 19 March, 6:30pm – 8:00pm – Beyond the Boundary (Part 2)

(This workshop can be attended as a standalone session or as Part 1 of a two-part series.)

Redhead to Merewether Walk
2026-03-08 08:30 - 12:30 | NSW
Newcastle has some beautiful coastline so let’s get out and appreciate it!
Please join us for a relaxed walk from Redhead to Merewether along the coast.
Expect to see magnificent views, feel sand between your toes and make new friends on the trail.
When: Sunday 8 March from 8:30am
Walk: Redhead to Merewether

Distance: 11kms
Elevation: approximately 270m
Cost: free
What To Bring: minimum 750ml of water per person, snacks for morning tea, lunch to eat on Merewether Beach or cash/card to buy lunch, swimmers and a towel if you want to take a dip, sunscreen and insect repellent

What To Wear: fully enclosed shoes such as walking boots or joggers/sneakers, sun-safe clothing and a hat – please check the weather forecast to see if you’d like to add a raincoat

Important Info: we will need to do a car shuffle, leaving a car or two at the end of the walk so we can drive back to the start.

Want to join us? No experience needed just average fitness and the items listed above.

Please complete the booking form and we’ll be in touch.

Nature Journaling & Pollinator Partner Watercolour Workshop Series
2026-03-10 09:30 - 11:30 | Lake Mac Tiny Forest
Connect with nature, sharpen your observation skills, and explore the fascinating world of pollinators in this four-week workshop series at Lake Mac Tiny Forest, Teralba. Guided by artist and illustrator Anna Scobie, each 2-hour session combines nature journaling, sketching, and watercolour practice, with a focus on local butterflies, native bees, and their plant companions.
Across four weeks, you will:

Create three finished watercolours inspired by local plants and pollinators
Develop a nature sketchbook practice
Learn about plant-pollinator pairings, including local butterflies and native bees
Enjoy a hands-on, social, and creative nature experience

When: Tuesdays in March from the 10th, 9:30am – 11:30am
Where: Lake Mac Tiny Forest, Teralba
What’s included: All materials and a sketchbook provided
This series is perfect for beginners and nature lovers wanting a creative and mindful connection to their local environment.

Beyond the Boundary: Verge Gardening for Community & Nature
2026-03-19 18:30 - 20:00 | NSW
Your garden doesn’t have to stop at the fence.
This session looks beyond the backyard to explore how verge and nature strip gardens can support biodiversity, cool streets, improve soil health and build stronger communities.
This practical workshop will guide you through the key steps to planning, preparing, and planting a verge garden, including:

Design basics
Soil preparation
Plant selection
How to work within Council requirements so your verge garden is compliant, supported and set up for success

Whether you already garden your verge or are just curious, this session will inspire you to think differently about public spaces.

All participants will receive a free, native verge-appropriate plant.

Who this is for:
Residents, renters, educators, sustainability groups, and anyone interested in community-led environmental action.

Please bring:
A satellite image of your verge (printed or on a tablet/phone) so you can map out your design ideas during the workshop.

This workshop can be attended on its own or alongside Part 1 as a two-part learning journey.
Book into one or both sessions to deepen your skills and confidence in creating habitat at home and in your community.

Walking Weekend - Royal National Park
2026-03-20 13:00 - 2026-03-23 10:00 | Royal National Park, Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, Sydney, NSW, Australia
This event is fully booked. If you can go at short notice and would like to join the waitlist, please email katie@thegroundswell.org.au

Ready to explore more of our world?
Join us for an inspiring weekend of walking in the Royal National Park, south of Sydney.
You’ll be part of a small group of walkers keen to get outside, see some incredible sights and be reminded of the awe and wonder that comes from spending time in nature.
The Walking Weekend is for those who need to recharge, remember the important things in life, and enjoy this beautiful world we live in.
Here are all the details:

Itinerary (subject to change)
Friday 20 March
9:00am – Depart Newcastle/Lake Macquarie by car (bring lunch or buy en-route)
1:00pm – Meet in the Royal National Park for our first walk: Palona Cave and the Forest Path (10km)
4:30pm – Check in at our private rental home in Bundeena
Pre-dinner drinks and appetisers
6:30pm – Dinner
Saturday 21 March
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack lunch, snacks and water
9am – Depart for our second walk: Garie Beach to Bundeena (or vice versa depending on conditions – 16km). Option to start/finish at Wattamolla Beach (10km)
Relax at the house or walk 100m to the beach
6pm – Dinner at Bundeena Community and Services Club
Sunday 22 March
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack lunch, snacks and water
9am – Depart for our third walk: Garie Beach to Otford (11km) to complete the Coast Track
Relax at the house or walk 100m to the beach
Pre-dinner drinks and appetisers
6:30pm – Dinner
After dark – option to visit Helensburgh Glow Worm Tunnel
Monday 23 March
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack up and depart by 10am

What’s Included
3 nights accommodation in a beautiful home in Bundeena
Guided walks each day in the Royal National Park
Time to relax on nearby beaches
2 dinners prepared and cooked for you
A variety of provisions so you can make your breakfast each morning
Snacks to stock your backpack for walks
Appetisers to enjoy on the deck in the evening
A smorgasbord of lunch supplies to make your own picnic to eat on the trails
Coffee, tea, herbal tea plus milk and sugar
Bed linen and towels
3 days of vehicle entry fees to the Royal National Park
A donation to The Groundswell Collective for projects to protect and restore the world we love
Suggested training program to maximise your enjoyment of the weekend
A preliminary meeting with the group to discuss the walks, menu and transportation

What’s Not Included
Transportation to and from Bundeena (see FAQs)
Dinner Saturday night at Bundeena Community and Services Club
Beverages other than coffee, tea, herbal tea
Optional after dark visit to the Helensburgh Glow Worm Tunnel (free entry, organise own transport)
Travel insurance

Pricing
House:

Queen bed plus ensuite = BOOKED

Queen bed plus shared bathroom = BOOKED

Bunk bed plus shared bathroom = BOOKED

Cottage:

Queen bed plus shared bathroom = BOOKED

Bunk bed plus shared bathroom = BOOKED

Deposit = $200 per person
Balance due 6 weeks prior to departure = Friday 6 February
Payments are made via bank transfer. You are welcome to pay by instalments up to the balance due date with a minimum of $50 per payment.
Ready to book? Please complete the booking form.

What to Bring
Walking boots/shoes or joggers – waterproof if possible
A backup pair of walking boots/shoes or joggers
Backpack
Bottles or bladder to carry at least 1.5 litres of water
Raincoat
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Hat and sun smart clothing to walk in (at least four sets)
Rain boots (otherwise known as gumboots or wellies) if visiting the glow worms
Clothes to wear out to dinner on Saturday night
Swimmers and a small towel in case you take a dip during a walk or go to the beach
All the typical items you’d bring for a weekend away: toiletries, pyjamas, phone charger, something to read, maybe your favourite pillow and anything else you need to be comfortable
Optional – walking poles if you use them
Note: bed linen and bath towel are provided

FAQs
Do I need special walking skills?
All the walks we have planned are rated easy to moderate, meaning they’re suitable for an average person with average fitness. Of course, some training before the Walking Weekend will make it more enjoyable for you and your leg muscles. A suggested training plan will be provided after you’ve booked.
We will cover a variety of terrain including boardwalk, sand, gravel paths, and rocky narrow trails. Uphill and downhill, steep and flat on stairs and trail, both wet and dry underfoot: we’ll experience it all. You will be able to move at your own pace during the walks and we’ll take regular breaks.
If you have health concerns or would like more specific information, please read about the walks (see Itinerary for links) and then contact Katie on katie@thegroundswell.org.au

Do I need special walking equipment?
See the above list of What to Bring and remember to borrow or buy second hand if you need something you don’t already own (Facebook Marketplace has oodles of walking shoes/boots).

Can I arrive late?
You might choose to arrive later on Friday and miss the first walk on Friday afternoon (the price remains the same). Please arrive by 6pm for the welcome dinner.

How do I get to Bundeena?
We’d like to make this weekend as sustainable as possible so a good option is to carpool with other walkers. We’ll have a meeting prior to the Walking Weekend so you can meet everyone and make travel arrangements. Another option is to travel by public transport. This will be a train to Cronulla then ferry to Bundeena and we can pick you up from the ferry or you can walk 500m to the house.

Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Sure can. We’ll ask you about food and any other special needs during the booking process and at the preliminary meeting.

What kind of projects will be supported by the donation portion of my fee?
The Groundswell Collective loves bringing people together to create a better planet. Our projects include:

planting tiny forests to rapidly regenerate landscapes that have been cleared for development or farming. These compact ecosystems provide food and habitat for biodiversity, cool urban areas and help communities take practical climate action.

facilitating workshops to help children connect with nature and foster a lifelong love of caring for our world

growing food for people and pollinators in our community garden

Why do I need rain boots?
The Helensburgh Glow Worm Tunnel is notoriously muddy underfoot. If you’d like to visit it, bring a pair of gumboots/wellies in a large plastic bag, wear them in the tunnel then change back into clean shoes before getting in the car.

What if the weather isn’t great?
We won’t let a little rain put us off but in the event of extreme weather conditions (eg. a heatwave or dangerous storms) then we may need to postpone the Walking Weekend in the name of health and safety. Obviously, we won’t be able to make this decision until shortly before the event. You would be given the option of transferring to a new date or receiving a full refund.

How do I book?
Please complete the booking form and we will respond within 24 hours. Once we offer you a place, you will have 24 hours to pay your $200 deposit via bank transfer. The balance of your payment will be due 6 weeks prior to the Walking Weekend (Friday 6 February). You are welcome to pay by instalments up to that date with a minimum of $50 per payment.

Are there any refunds?
There are no refunds if you cancel your place at the Walking Weekend. If, after booking, you become injured or unwell in a way that prevents you from attending and you can provide a medical certificate to that effect, you will be able to transfer the money you’ve paid to an alternative Walking Weekend.
If the event is cancelled by The Groundswell Collective due to severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will be given the choice of transferring to another event date or receiving a refund.
You might like to consider if travel insurance is right for you.

Still have questions?
Contact Katie on katie@thegroundswell.org.au

About Us
The Walking Weekend will be led by Katie from The Groundswell Collective, who believes now is the time to get out and explore the places we’ve always wanted to see. Walking through the bush allows us to be face to face with world we love and reap the benefits of being in nature.
Katie has been bushwalking for years, escaping outdoors whenever she needs to make sense of the world or remember why she wants to protect it. Katie holds a current First Aid certificate and will carry a First Aid Kit on each walk.
The Walking Weekend will be supported by Libby, a long-term supporter of The Groundswell Collective and one of our most dedicated volunteers. Libby will help with the logistics of the weekend: driving to and from trailheads, serving up appetisers and cooking delicious dinners.

Seed Library Workshop & Packing: Growing Natives - Behind the Scenes at Lake Mac Landcare Nursery
2026-03-25 09:30 - 11:30 | Landcare and Sustainable Living Centre, 80 Toronto Road, Booragul, NSW, Australia
Join us for a hands-on Seed Library Workshop and Packing Session at the Landcare and Sustainable Living Centre as part of the Seeds of Resilience monthly program.
This session features a tour and talk by the staff of the Landcare Nursery, who will focus on tips and tricks for growing natives from seed.
Alongside the workshop, participants will help pack and label seeds for the Lake Mac Seed Library, supporting biodiversity, local food security, and community sharing.
☕ A relaxed, social morning — conversation and curiosity encouraged.
With thanks to Australia Post for supporting community wellbeing and seed sharing initiatives.

No experience required — just come along and join in.

Verge Garden Demo
2026-04-11 09:00 - 10:30 | NSW
Planting a verge garden is easier than you think and this demo will show you how.

During this session, you’ll learn how to:

Deal with grass on your verge
Prepare the soil for planting
Design a verge garden that meets council guidelines
Select appropriate plants and care for them

You’ll also discover the benefits of verge gardens, including how they cool urban streets, build stronger communities, and provide food and shelter for local species displaced by land clearing.

📆 Saturday 11 April
⏰ 9am – 10:30am
📍Teralba (address supplied in booking confirmation)
🎟 $10 per person
🍓 Includes light morning tea

This is a hands-on demo so bring your gardening gloves!
No experience required.

Warners Bay to Kahibah Walk
2026-04-12 09:00 - 12:00 | NSW
Discover beautiful bushland hidden in suburbia on this section of the Great North Walk.
Please join us for a relaxed walk from Warners Bay to Kahibah.
Expect to see incredible trees, spy some native critters and make new friends on the trail.
When: Sunday 12 April from 9am
Walk: Warners Bay to Kahibah

Distance: 8kms with options to do more or less
Elevation: approximately 200m
Cost: free
What To Bring: minimum 500ml of water per person, snacks for morning tea, sunscreen and insect repellent

What To Wear: fully enclosed shoes such as walking boots or joggers/sneakers, sun-safe clothing and a hat – please check the weather forecast to see if you’d like to add a raincoat

Option 1: complete walk from Warners Bay to Kahibah = 8km
Mostly uneven bush track with short sections on residential streets.

Option 2: partial walk from Warners Bay to Charlestown = 5km
Almost all on uneven bush track with 90% of the ups and downs.

Option 3: partial walk from Charlestown to Kahibah = 2km
Combination of uneven bush track and timber boardwalk with very few ups and downs.

Option 4: add on some of the Yuelarbah Track at the end of the walk eg. Leichardt’s Lookout and return adds approximately 2.5km

Important Info: we will need to do a car shuffle, leaving a car or two at the end of the walk so we can drive back to the start. This will be arranged once we know who is coming.

Want to join us? No experience needed just average fitness and the items listed above.

Please complete the booking form and we’ll be in touch.

All About Herbs - Make A Mini Wicking System
2026-04-29 09:30 - 11:30 | Edgeworth Memorial Neighbourhood Centre, 739 Main Road, Edgeworth, NSW, 2285, Australia
Join The Groundswell Collective for a hands-on Seed Library Workshop and Packing Session at Edgeworth Memorial Neighbourhood Centre as part of the Seeds of Resilience monthly program.
All About Herbs is a practical, beginner-friendly session focused on growing healthy, productive herbs at home, with a special spotlight on Thai basil and simple mini wicking systems that help herbs thrive with less water and maintenance.
Participants will learn how wicking systems work and how they can be easily adapted for small spaces, veggie patches, balconies and kitchen gardens.
Featured focus: Mini Wicking Systems for Herbs
This session will explore:

The basics of growing herbs successfully at home
How mini wicking systems work and why they’re ideal for herbs
A step-by-step demonstration of a mini wicking system for Thai basil
Tips for watering, harvesting and keeping herbs productive
Simple herb packaging techniques for sharing and storage

Alongside the workshop, participants will help pack and label herbs and seeds for the Lake Mac Seed Library, supporting biodiversity, local food resilience and community sharing.
☕ A relaxed, social morning — conversation and curiosity encouraged.
With thanks to Australia Post for supporting community wellbeing and seed sharing initiatives.

What to Expect

Seed and herb packing and labelling for the Lake Mac Seed Library
Live demonstration and make your own mini wicking system for Thai basil
Practical tips for growing and harvesting herbs
Learn how seed libraries work and how to get involved
Meet local gardeners and community members

Who Should Attend

Home gardeners and herb lovers
Beginner and small-space growers
Families and community members
Anyone interested in growing food at home

No experience required — just come along and join in 🌿
