The ‘Bega Valley Seed Savers’ is part of a national Seed Savers network, and consists of volunteers dedicated to growing and saving the seeds of non-hybrid and heirloom varieties of mostly edible plants. Mrs Ann McColgan, an Eden seed saver, says the seeds are highly sought-after throughout the region, but they simply can’t keep up with demand. “There are only a handful of people who regularly contribute to the seed bank,” Mrs McColgan said, “so we’re offering a free workshop in Eden to encourage others to gain the skills, and join us.”

A seed saver stall will be set up as part of the St George’s Uniting Church Market on Chandos Street, Eden, this Saturday May 16, with a formal workshop from 12.30 to 3.30 pm.

The workshop will be run by experienced local facilitator and seed saver, Julie Davies, and will be a mix of information, discussion and practical demonstrations. “The workshop is suitable for complete beginners as we will be covering the basics of seed saving first,”Ms Davies said. “But we also want existing experienced seed growers to come along as well, so we can delve into some of the more complex issues around seed saving, to help improve quality and reliability of donated seed.”

Seed saver groups currently meet in Bega and Cobargo, and a group is close to beginning in Eden too. Ms Davies says there’s a ton of incentive to become a seed saver. “We’re very concerned about local food security,” Ms Davies said. “It’s important to grow locally, and produce food that is adapted to our area. It’s also a big money saver, where you can rely on your own garden rather than buy seedlings elsewhere. And every volunteer who contributes seeds can, in turn, get whatever seeds they personally need from the seed bank, for free.”

For more information call Julie Davies on 6492 5516 or 0457 646 602.