Host Profile
My Property
Business Type
Farming methods
Short Property Description
Bolwarrah Gardens is situated at the southern tip of the Central Highlands of Victoria at 610m above sea level with rich volcanic soil, spring-fed dams and shelter from winds via tall pines. The property has 150 established olive trees, a chestnut and hazelnut grove, 12 apple varieties, as well as berries, plum, pear, cherry, apricot and fig trees over 5 hectares. The veggie patch and greenhouse grows organic vegetables enough for two families with plenty of preserved goods to use over the colder months. The ornamental gardens provide a biodiverse oasis with beautiful colour and form for year round interest as well as flowers for the bees and plenty of organic matter for making compost. Compost if also activated by a herd of guinea pigs which graze grass under the apple trees and eat vegetable clippings. We make our own wood chip to mulch trees and garden beds and keep worm farms for fertility. We make our own bread and exchange for eggs and raw goat’s milk made on neighbouring farms. We have three children aged 11, 9, and 7 who spend their time playing outdoors, reading, baking, playing music and dancing. Parents are both working full time with 2-3 days spent in Geelong and Melbourne and weekends spent working on the property. WHOOFERS who can maintain the property through the week is crucial to maintaining the self-sufficient, organic and sustainable lifestyle we are hoping to achieve. We only use electrically powered vehicles and machinery (except tractor) and charge these off the solar panels. WHOOFER accommodation is a Hauslein Tiny Home with expansive deck, privacy and meadow views. The home has a loft double bed, shower, compost toilet, kitchen with stove top, sink and fridge. WiFi, aircon and TV. Tiny home is cleaned weekly by our friendly cleaner. Can use our electric car for local driving, i.e. to train station.
Organic/Biological methods we use
Ramial woodchip mulch, worm farming, hot compost, guinea pigs for managing weeds under fruit trees and improving fertility, preserving, sustainable water and power use, minimum till, biodiversity for pest management, companion planting.
My Details
The Stay
Can Accommodate
Preferred length of Stay
Accommodation
Other options
Non-Smoking, Children allowed by arrangement, Pets allowed by arrangement
Meal Procedures
Languages spoken
Diets we cater for
Mixed meals, some meat, some vegetarian, Fish based meals, Meat based meals, Vegetarian meals, Vegetarian only, Vegan meals
Why I became a WWOOF Host
I became a WWOOF host because I’m passionate about sustainable healthy living, regenerative and organic farming, and I believe in sharing that knowledge with others. Hosting WWOOFers allows me to offer hands-on experiences in organic gardening and production, while also learning from the diverse perspectives and cultures of those who visit. I’m committed to providing a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment—offering clean, comfortable accommodation and nourishing meals in exchange for 4-6 hours of help each day (max 38 hours per week). Being a WWOOF host is not just about getting work done; it’s about fostering meaningful connections, promoting eco-conscious practices, and proudly representing Australia as a warm and inclusive destination for travellers interested in living and learning sustainably.
