The Groundswell Collective

Saving Seed in a Home Kitchen Garden
2026-02-25 09:30 - 11:30 (Australia/Sydney) | 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
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
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
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
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
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 🌿

Ash Island Walk
2026-05-03 08:30 - 11:30
Explore local history and remnant rainforest on a relaxed walk around the eclectic Ash Island at Hexham.
Expect to see World War 2 historic sites, birdlife along the Hunter River and the Ash trees that give the island its name.
When: Sunday 3 May from 8:30am
Walk: visiting sites on Ash Island

Distance: 7kms with options to do more or less
Elevation: almost none – it’s a very flat and easy walk
Cost: free
What To Bring: minimum 500ml of water per person, snacks for morning tea, sunscreen and insect repellent (the wetlands aren’t living up to their name at the moment but the mosquitoes are alive and well)

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

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 with details on where to meet.

Encouraging Native Pollinators in the Veggie Patch
2026-05-23 09:30 - 11:30 | Toronto HUB, 97 The Boulevarde, Toronto, NSW, 2283, Australia
Join The Groundswell Collective for a hands-on Seed Library Workshop and Packing Session at Toronto Community Hub as part of the Seeds of Resilience monthly program.
This session features guest presenter Kelly Lees, a Qualified Bee Educator, who will focus on how to encourage and support native bees in home veggie patches and gardens.
Native bees are vital pollinators for food crops and local ecosystems. Kelly will share practical, accessible ways to make your garden bee-friendly, even in small urban spaces.
Kelly will cover:

The role native bees play in pollination and food production
Common native bees you might already have in your garden
The best plants to support bees year-round
Simple habitat ideas for veggie patches, balconies and backyards

Kelly Lee is a passionate bee educator dedicated to helping communities understand and protect Australia’s diverse bee species.
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.

What to Expect

Seed packing and labelling for the Lake Mac Seed Library
Practical guidance on supporting native bees at home
Tips for bee-friendly veggie gardening
Learn how seed libraries work and how to get involved
Meet local gardeners and community members

Who Should Attend

Home gardeners and veggie growers
Anyone interested in pollinators and biodiversity
Families and community members
People curious about native bees and sustainable gardening

No experience required — just come along and join in 🐝🌱

Behind the Scenes of Trees In Newcastle
2026-05-26 09:30 - 11:30 | Trees In Newcastle, 119 Kalaroo Road, Redhead, NSW, 2290, Australia
Join The Groundswell Collective for a hands-on Seed Library Workshop and Packing Session at Trees In Newcastle as part of the Seeds of Resilience monthly program.
This session features a tour and talk by the staff of the TIN Nursery, who will focus on how they collect and grow seeds of local native plants.
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 necessary.
Bookings required.

Tiny Forest Trail
2026-06-07 09:00 - 15:00
Join The Groundswell Collective for a guided bus tour through a series of thriving Tiny Forests across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.
This full-day journey visits community, private and school planting sites including Kotara School, Lake Mac, Teralba Public School, Edgeworth Public School and Cardiff Heights, sharing the stories, science, and people behind these fast-growing native ecosystems.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy morning tea and lunch in the forest, and see how local action is restoring biodiversity and climate resilience across the region.
A relaxed, social day of nature, learning, and connection.
Travelling together by bus, we’ll visit key sites and share morning tea and lunch along the way. Each stop offers time to explore, reflect, and hear how these living classrooms are growing over time.

Tour Itinerary
9:00am – First site
Kotara School
10:30am – Morning tea
Lake Mac Tiny Forest, Teralba
Teralba Public School
Edgeworth Public School
12:30pm – Lunch
Urban Hum Tiny Forest, Cardiff Heights
Little Grove Hill, Cardiff Heights
Tickets
Morning Tea Ticket – $15
Morning tea at Teralba + Lake Mac Tiny Forest site visit only (own transport)
Lunch Ticket – $25
Lunch at Cardiff Heights + Twin Tiny Forests site visit only (own transport)
Full Trail Pass – $45
Full day bus tour + morning tea + lunch + all site visits

What to expect

Guided tiny forest site visits across the region
Stories from Anna Noon, Founder of The Groundswell Collective, community members and landholders.
Time in nature and firsthand observation of forest growth
Walking on uneven outdoor ground for up to 100m and hopping on and off the bus numerous time (please make sure you able to safely participate in these activities)
A relaxed, social, learning-focused day

Drink & Draw: A Tiny Forest Artmaking Afternoon
2026-06-20 15:30 - 17:30 | Cardiff Heights, NSW, Australia
🍷🎨 Sip, Sketch & Unwind (Afternoon Session)
Come sip, snack and slow down with us

Join artist Anna Scobie for a relaxed afternoon art session in the Tiny Forest, focusing on still life sketching using charcoal and ink washes. We’ll be working with natural forms and found forest objects, exploring texture, shadow and simple composition in a calm, no-pressure way.
This is not a formal art class — it’s a social, creative pause in the day where you can chat, unwind, enjoy a drink and reconnect with drawing in its simplest form.
Anna will gently guide you through basic techniques for charcoal sketching and ink wash layering. Absolute beginners are very welcome.

What’s included:

Guided still life drawing session with charcoal & ink washes
All materials provided
Wine + tasty nibbles
A collection of sketch work to take home

This session is perfect if you:

Love nature but “don’t really draw” (yet)
Want a creative afternoon that feels grounding and easy
Enjoy good company, good wine and making things with your hands

Come solo, bring a friend, or make it a shared slow afternoon — this is a cosy, welcoming Groundswell gathering.

Accessibility / Notes:
This is a relaxed, supportive outdoor session. Please let us know if you have any access or dietary needs. The event is held outdoors and requires walking down an uneven hill to reach the outdoor classroom.

Creating Jewellery from Native Seeds
2026-06-24 09:30 - 11:30 | Redhead Community Library, 16 Hutchinson Street, Red Head, NSW, 2290, Australia
Join The Groundswell Collective for a Seed Library Workshop and Packing Session at Redhead Community Library as part of the Seeds of Resilience monthly program.
This session features guest presenter, Shiralee Seaman, who will guide participants through her creative practice of making jewellery from native seeds.
Native seeds carry stories of place, resilience and regeneration. In this presentation will explore how seeds can be respectfully collected, prepared and transformed into wearable pieces that celebrate local landscapes and native plants.
Shiralee will share:

An introduction to native seeds commonly used in jewellery
Ethical and respectful approaches to seed collection
Basic seed preparation techniques (cleaning, drying and storing)
Simple jewellery-making methods using native seeds

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

What to Expect

Seed packing and labelling for the Lake Mac Seed Library
Examples of native seed jewellery
Learn about local native plants and their seeds
Creative, reflective and social activities
Meet local artists, gardeners and community members

Who Should Attend

Creative practitioners and makers
Gardeners and nature lovers
Community members and families
Anyone interested in native plants, seeds and storytelling

No experience required — just come along and create ✨🌱

Walking Weekend - Barrington Tops National Park
2026-06-26 16:00 - 2026-06-28 12:00
Walking Weekend – Barrington Tops National Park
Ready to explore more of our world?
Come and immerse yourself in ancient Gondwana Rainforest, walking amongst giant old-growth trees, leafy ferns and moss-covered rocks in Barrington Tops National Park. You’ll retire to luxurious accommodation each night after delicious meals and good conversation around the fire.
As part of a small group of walkers, you’ll see some jaw-dropping sights and feel the sense of wonder that comes from spending time in World Heritage-listed 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:
Friday 26 – Sunday 28 June 2026
Itinerary (subject to change)
Friday 26 June
4pm-6:30pm – Arrive at Carawirry Forest Escape to settle into your room and enjoy some appetisers
7pm – Dinner and dessert
Post-dinner briefing about the weekend’s walks
Saturday 27 June
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack lunch, snacks and water
8am – Depart for our first adventure: Rocky Crossing Walk (16km) in Barrington Tops National Park
Relax at the house or take a dip in the plunge pool to rejuvenate
Pre-dinner drinks and appetisers
7pm – Dinner and dessert
Outdoor firepit with marshmallows and hot chocolate
Sunday 28 June
Your choice of a leisurely morning for a sleep in/fireside reading OR a gentle walk to Carawirry’s waterfall OR take on the Yowie Trail!
10:30am brunch – our final meal together
Pack up and depart by midday
Perhaps a stop in Dungog on the way home?

What’s Included
2 nights of luxurious accommodation in Tathra House at Carawirry Forest Escape
Guided walks over 2 days
2 delicious dinners followed by mouthwatering desserts
A variety of provisions so you can make your breakfast on Saturday
Snacks to stock your backpack for walks
Appetisers to enjoy in front of the fire each evening
A smorgasbord of lunch supplies to make your own picnic for the trail
A delicious made-for-you brunch on Sunday
Coffee, tea, herbal tea plus milk and sugar
Bed linen and towels
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 Carawirry Forest Resort (see FAQs)
Beverages other than coffee, tea, herbal tea
Travel insurance

Pricing
Tathra House at Carawirry Forest Escape is comprised of five luxurious bedrooms with sumptuous beds and premium bedding. Your choice of sharing with a friend or partner in a king bed or two singles, or come alone and share with a future friend in two singles.
Walking Weekend = $650 per person
Deposit = $200 per person
Balance due 6 weeks prior to departure = Friday 15 May
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 layers of warm clothing to walk in (minimum three sets)
Swimmers and a towel in case you want to rejuvenate in the plunge pool
Containers to pack your lunch and snacks and cutlery to eat with
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 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 on both 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 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?
Please arrive by 6:30pm on Friday for dinner.
How do I get to Carawirry Forest Escape?
Carawirry is a piece of paradise about 20 minutes outside Dungog. 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.
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

What if the weather isn’t great?
We won’t let a little rain put us off (it is rainforest after all) but in the event of extreme weather conditions (eg. a flooding event 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 15 May). 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 including transport and delicious food.

Seed Paper Workshop and Packing Session
2026-07-29 09:30 - 11:30 | Edgeworth Memorial Neighbourhood Centre, 739 Main Road, Edgeworth, NSW, 2285, Australia
Join The Groundswell Collective for a Seed Library Workshop and Packing Session at Edgeworth Memorial Neighbourhood Centre as part of our Seeds of Resilience monthly program.
This creative, hands-on session invites participants to make handmade seed paper designed for planting carrots, storing seeds, and gifting to others — a simple but powerful way to share abundance and grow connection.
Alongside the workshop, we’ll work together to pack and label seeds for the Lake Mac Seed Library, helping to support local biodiversity, seed sovereignty, and community knowledge-sharing across the region.
This is a relaxed, social morning where creativity, conversation, and curiosity are encouraged. No prior experience needed — just come ready to make, learn, and connect.

☕ Tea, creativity, and community included.

With thanks to Australia Post for supporting community wellbeing and seed sharing initiatives.

Heaton Gap to Wakefield Walk
2026-08-01 08:00 - 12:30
Complete a section of the Great North Walk and/or challenge your legs with some elevation – your choice of Option 1, Option 2 or both.
Option 1 – Heaton Gap
When: Saturday 1 August from 8am
Walk: Heaton Gap

Distance: 2.7kms
Elevation: 351m – challenging, best for walkers with experience or current training in their legs

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Option 2 – Heaton Gap to Wakefield
When: Saturday 1 August from 9:30am
Walk: Heaton Gap to Wakefield on the Great North Walk
Distance: 9kms
Elevation: 337m – mostly easy with some short steep sections

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Cost: free

What To Bring: minimum 500ml of water per person for Option 1 and 750ml per person for Option 2, multiple snacks, optional 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

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

We will organise a car shuffle once numbers are known.

Please complete the booking form and we’ll be in touch with details on where to meet.

Trivia Night
2026-08-01 18:00 - 21:00 | Cardiff RSL Club, 45 Macquarie Road, Cardiff, NSW, Australia
Gather your team mates, save your gold coins and join The Groundswell Collective for a night of fun and fundraising!
We have plenty of questions for all abilities plus games and raffles with incredible prizes.
Money raised will go towards tree planting and revegetation activities across Lake Mac, providing habitat and food for biodiversity, cooling the local environment, and increasing canopy cover.

📅 Saturday 1 August
⏰ 6pm-9pm
📍Cardiff RSL Club
🎟 Bookings are essential

The Groundswell Collective is an environmental not-for-profit and registered charity that brings people together to create a better planet.
Our projects include:

planting tiny forests for rapid regeneration
operating Lake Mac Seed Library for free access to local seeds
growing food to share at Shelley St Community Garden
planting native verge gardens across Lake Mac and Newcastle
facilitating nature-based art and education programs

Walking Weekend - Blue Mountains
2026-10-16 13:00 - 2026-10-19 10:00 | Blue Mountains
Walking Weekend – Blue Mountains
Ready to explore more of our world?
Come and explore World Heritage-listed bushland with views so spectacular they inspire silent awe. We’ll walk through blooming springtime native flowers and spot waratahs in the wild. You’ll retire each night to a cosy character-filled Federation era home for delicious meals and good conversation.
As part of a small group of walkers, you’ll see some jaw-dropping sights and feel the sense of wonder that comes from spending time on ancient land.
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:
Friday 16 – Monday 19 October 2026

Itinerary (subject to change)
Friday 16 October
1pm – Meet at Blackheath to walk the Grand Canyon Track (6.5km)
4:30pm – Settle in to Mary Villa and enjoy some appetisers
6pm – Dinner and dessert
Post-dinner briefing about tomorrow’s walking options
Saturday 17 October
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack lunch, snacks and water
8:30am – Depart for the Grand Clifftop Walk from Wentworth Falls to Gordon Falls (11km)
Option to complete the Grand Clifftop Walk today (19km) to allow for a different walk tomorrow
Relax at the accommodation in the afternoon or, if time allows, enjoy an optional activity
Late afternoon appetisers
6:30pm – Dinner and dessert
Sunday 18 October
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack lunch, snacks and water
8:30am – Depart for the remainder of the Grand Clifftop Walk from Gordon Falls to Scenic World, Katoomba (8km)
Option to do the Fern Bower to Furber Steps walk instead (5.5km)
Relax at the accommodation or enjoy an optional activity
6pm – group dinner at Katoomba RSL Club
Monday 19 October
Make your own breakfast with the wide range of ingredients provided
Pack up and depart by 10am

What’s Included
3 nights’ accommodation at Mary Villa in Katoomba
Guided walks over 3 days
2 delicious dinners followed by mouthwatering desserts
A variety of provisions so you can make your breakfast each morning
Snacks to stock your backpack for walks
A smorgasbord of lunch supplies to make your own picnic for the trail
Appetisers to enjoy each evening
Coffee, tea, herbal tea plus milk and sugar
Bed linen and towels
A donation to The Groundswell Collective for projects to protect and restore the world we love
Training suggestions to maximise your enjoyment of the weekend
Monthly training walks to meet the group and add to your fitness
A WhatsApp group chat to discuss training walks, the Walking Weekend, transportation and more

What’s Not Included
Transportation to and from the Blue Mountains (see FAQs)
Sunday night dinner
Beverages other than coffee, tea, herbal tea
Optional activities (see FAQs)
Travel insurance

Pricing
Mary Villa in Katoomba is comprised of six comfortable bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom. Choose your preferred bedding combination from the options below. You’re welcome to come alone or bring a friend or partner.
Bedroom 1: Queen bed with ensuite – BOOKED
Bedroom 2: Single bed in a twin share room with ensuite = $750 per person (if you’re sharing this room with someone you know, specify their name on the booking form and have them specify your name)
Bedroom 3: Single bed in a triple share room with ensuite = $650 per person (if you’re sharing this room with someone you know, specify their name on the booking form and have them specify your name) – 2 BEDS LEFT
Bedroom 4: Queen bed with ensuite sharing with someone you know = $750 per person – BOOKED
Bedroom 5: Single bed with ensuite – BOOKED
Bedroom 6: Single bed in a triple share room with ensuite = $650 per person (if you’re sharing this room with someone you know, specify their name on the booking form and have them specify your name)
Deposit = $200 per person
Balance due 6 weeks prior to departure = Friday 4 September
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 and we’ll be in touch.

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 1.25 litres of water
Raincoat
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Hand sanitiser
Hat and layers of warm clothing to walk in (minimum four sets)
Swimmers and a towel in case you want to take a dip beneath a waterfall
Containers to pack your lunch and snacks plus cutlery to eat with
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 of 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 muscles. A suggested training plan will be provided after you’ve booked.
*This excludes the optional Fern Bower to Furber Steps walk on Saturday afternoon which is more difficult and has many, many stairs.
We will cover a variety of terrain including boardwalk, sand, gravel paths, and rocky narrow trails. Uphill and downhill on both 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 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?
The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular walks in the Blue Mountains but if you’re happy to miss that then you’re welcome to arrive in time for dinner.
How do I get to the Blue Mountains?
We’d like to make this weekend as sustainable as possible so a good option is to carpool with other walkers. Train to Katoomba or Blackheath is also an option. We’ll have a discussion in the group chat prior to the Walking Weekend so you can make travel arrangements.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Sure can. We’ll ask you about food and any other special needs during the booking process.
Can I have a room to myself?
Sure. You can make a room private by paying for all the beds in that room.
What are the optional activities?
The Blue Mountains has oodles of things to do besides walking if you want to do more. You might find others but here are a few activities to get you thinking:

go op shopping in Katoomba
visit Aqua Ignis Bathhouse
try the scones at Megalong Valley Tea Rooms
experience Scenic World
see the world’s largest private collection of teawares at Bygone Beauties

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

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 flooding event 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 4 September). 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 including transport and delicious food.
