You've heard the term before, but what exactly IS biochar?

Biochar is the modern name for charcoal created from organic materials such as woody waste. Some of it's benefits as a soil improvement material include:

• Increased water holding capacity, which leads to
• Increased microbial activity, which leads to
• Increased soil aeration and 
• increased Carbon sequestration.
• Using charcoal as a mulch around rural properties can also decrease the risk of fire damage.

Ceilidh Meo from the Long Road Olive Co-op has been growing olives and managing groves for over 15 years, including working with growers who have suffered fires, floods and pest and disease infestations on their properties. In this workshop, she will be discussing the difference between combustion and pyrolysis, as well as demonstrating the making of biochar (charcoal) from the pruned branches of olive trees, and suggesting how this material can be incorporated into gardens and groves.

This workshop uses open flame to create charcoal from garden waste. It is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Children under 18 can only attend with the supervision of a paying adult.

Please make sure you're wearing appropriate clothes on the day, including long sleeves and pants with closed toe shoes. This is an outdoor workshop and you are recommended to check the local weather forecast closer to the date and dress appropriately.

Participants are requested to BYO thermos and/or drink bottle, but snacks for afternoon tea and equipment will be provided.

Tickets are $77pp and registrations are limited to 16 attendees to ensure everyone has a chance to ask questions as required.

Car pooling is encouraged for environmental considerations, so book with a friend and travel together! Public transport (bus and tram) are also within walking distance of the venue.