We recently caught up with WWOOFer, Jess, to hear about her experience WWOOFing in Western Australia and wrote the following article for Grass Roots Magazine. Jess grew up on an 80-acre property along the Murray River in South Australia, where she still lives today. When she found herself with some free time between jobs, she began exploring WWOOFing opportunities. After hearing that her cousin’s friend from Canada was planning to WWOOF in Western Australia they met for coffee and soon after started their WWOOFing journey together.
So far, they have volunteered at two Host properties in Western Australia. Although her time there is coming to an end, Jess plans to continue WWOOFing locally in South Australia.
Jess has a strong passion for regenerative farming and is using her WWOOFing experience to build practical skills and learn directly from farmers across Australia. From processing milk and using hydroponic systems to grow vegetables, to caring for animals, each Host property has offered something unique and valuable.
Jess’ goal is to apply these skills to her property and perhaps even become a WWOOF Host herself one day. She has discussed these plans with her Hosts along the way, even drafting up a plan to implement a hydroponic water system herself to grow seedlings. Another dream of Jess’ is to own horses. At the beginning of her WWOOFing trip she admitted to “having no idea how to look after them”, however, after WWOOFing at a property with horses she is already gaining the skills and confidence to achieve this dream.
Jess’ favourite part of WWOOFing
While Jess has loved working with animals, especially horses, what stands out most is the sense of connection and shared purpose with others.
“I am really into regenerative agriculture and the organic lifestyle and looking after the earth, so it’s really great to be able to meet people that are passionate about those same things.”
Why Local WWOOFing?
Jess has done some overseas travel in the past, but she’s found something deeply rewarding about staying local. “I’ve done a little bit of travelling overseas like in my teenage years and to be honest, for me, I love putting roots down. One thing that I’ve loved about WWOOFing in my own country is that I’m gaining connections throughout the country. And, the people I’ve met so far, I’m sure I will keep in touch with them throughout the years. I just really love it. I think it makes the place really feel like home when you know so many people.”
Her advice to future WWOOFers?
“I think probably just know what you want to get out of it and reach out to hosts that fall within those areas of interest and go with your gut. I think when you’re looking at profiles, I really can tell if I’m feeling like that profile sounds like it is right for me. And then just to double check, I did have a phone call with one before I started and that really helped me go, ‘Yes, this is the right person for me.’ Also, I think maybe try to let go of expectations, go with the flow and enjoy it.”
Is local WWOOFing for you?
WWOOFing isn’t just for international travellers, we have many WWOOFers like Jess who live in Australia and decide to become WWOOFers. There are WWOOFing opportunities available all over the world, for a full list of national WWOOF Groups visit WWOOF International
Whilst every WWOOFers ‘why’ is different, generally local WWOOFers are Australians on a gap year, property owners who want to build their skills and knowledge, or individuals, families and grey nomads who have a simple passion for sustainable farming and discovering Australia.
No matter your reason, WWOOFing locally is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable skills in organic farming, biodynamics, permaculture, and other sustainable farming systems. As Jess mentioned, it’s also a great way to build a community of like-minded people across Australia. You’ll make lifelong friends from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and you may even meet Hosts you can reach out to for future farming advice!
For more information on WWOOF Australia, Hosting or Volunteering go to www.wwoof.com.au
Written By: Skye Linsen for WWOOF Australia
Photo’s Supplied by Jess Neal
