We always have a laugh when new visitors, delivery people or strangers visit our home. Almost everyone who comes through our front gate does a ‘double take’ at our mini-farm around our house, and most can’t believe the 15 chooks, 2 guinea pigs, 2 dogs, 3 cats and a pink cockatoo that come out to greet people. It’s second nature to us (especially myself, as I grew up on a farm) and to be honest, if it was legal (and Min allowed me), I’d have a lot more ‘barnyard friends’ than we’ve got now.

In Australia, traditionally most land blocks are quite large, and we have a long history of keeping chickens, ducks and other birds in our backyards for eggs and meat, as well as growing our own vegies, fruit and herbs in organic gardens. It’s sad to see how much of that culture has disappeared with the rush of busier lives and council laws inhibiting such pursuits. These days, however, it doesn’t matter how big or small your space is at home, you can still grow something and even keep a few chickens, which love your kitchen scraps (but make sure it’s always minimum two hens, as they’re very social creatures). Worm farms are easy to care for and fun for children, and even Australian native bees are easy to keep … and are stingless.

Whatever you choose to have, however small or large your space may be, it really does make a difference to the planet and your health. There nothing like picking your own fresh vegies and herbs from your own garden 20 minutes before you eat them – there is no substitute for fresh organic produce. Make the change today, start small, even with some herbs in a pot in your kitchen, and experience the difference of home farming.

If you’d like some help making the transition to an urban farm, however small scale or slowly, please contact me anytime. Every change you make to be greener, however small, makes a difference to your planet and your health.