Introduction to Australian Demeter Biodynamics – Beechworth, 23^rd August 2025

A field day for commercial growers

This introductory field day will be held across two neighbouring certified biodynamic properties on the outskirts of Beechworth – Sorrenberg vineyard and Beechworth Natural Farm – showcasing the Australian Demeter Biodynamic method in two very different settings.

Sorrenberg is a 3 hectare vineyard owned by Barry and Jan Morey who have been certified Australian Demeter Biodynamic since 2008, believing in the importance biodynamic practice places in rebuilding soil health and farmer observation.

Beechworth Natural Farm is an 11 hectare property owned by Patrick Mickan who developed an interest in biodynamic farming in 2010 and worked hard to apply the method to turn degraded land into fertile, productive soil. After a few years of market gardening, Patrick now specialises in garlic production and has been certified Australian Demeter Biodynamic since 2020.

This field day is aimed at commercial farmers interested in learning about the Australian Demeter Biodynamic method of agriculture for potential application on their property.

Location: 49 Alma Rd, Beechworth Victoria 3747 (those interested will be accompanied to Beechworth Natural Farm following the joint introductory session)

Time: 9.30 am start until about 3.30 pm.

Bring: BYO lunch (tea and coffee provided)

Topics covered will include:

• History and development of biodynamic farming and growing
• Plant feeding within nature
• Soil cultivation to improve soil structure
• Soil humus formation and microbial activity
• Biodynamic plant expression
• Using biodynamic preparation 500
• Prepared 500 (Podolinsky’s 500 plus 502-507)
• Using biodynamic preparation 501
• Stirring and applying the biodynamic preparations
• Preparing soil to receive the biodynamic preparations at the most beneficial time
• Sheet composting and green manures

Activities include:

• Participatory demonstrations of stirring, spraying preparations and green manuring
• Where applicable, farm walks showing Biodynamic results and discussing practical aspects of biodynamic farming
• Quality Australian Demeter Biodynamic preparations are displayed

For further enquiries: info@demeterbiodynamic.com.au

Australian Demeter Biodynamic (ADBD) is committed to running safe and inclusive events to facilitate the education and training of farmers and growers in the Australian Demeter Biodynamic method.