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Sourdough Workshop

Sourdough Fermentation Workshop

Date:    11th June
Time:    10am to midday
Topic:    Learn how to retard fermentation when making sourdough to fit in with your lifestyle and timetable. Chris will be sharing other tips and tricks.
Where:  Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:      $5
RSVP     9th June to simplelivingtoowoomba or ring/text Michele on 0423858059.

Lactofermentation Workshop

Lactofermentation workshop

When:   30th April from 10-midday
What:    Racheal will be presenting a workshop as per the following information:

Many of you have heard of things like kombucha, sauerkraut and kefir. These are all lactofermented products, but the world of lactofermentation (using brine to create an anaerobic, acidic environment to preserve fresh food) stretches far broader, and is a much simpler process than you may think.


In this workshop, we are going to look at using lactofermentation to create probiotic, nutrient dense preserves that can allow you to make the most of seasonal produce while nurturing your health. Some recipes will be demonstrated, according to what's in season at the time. We will be looking at more of the lesser-known ferments, including beverages like Kvass and Elderflower Fizz and vegetable-based ferments such as lactofermented pickles.

Where: Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton
Cost:     $5
RSVP:   Thursday 28th April to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or ring/text Michele on 0423858059

Please bring along something for the share/swap table if possible.


Stitch, Bake and Share Workshop

When:  14th May from 10am to midday
What:   Bring your current craft project along to work on and show us and for those of you so inclined please bake a favourite slice etc. for morning tea and share your recipe. 
Cost:  $5 which will be donated to the church for the use of their facilities
RSVP: 13th May to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or ring/text Michele on 0423858059.

Please being along something for the swap/share table if possible.

Thanks heaps and have a blessed Easter,

Michele

March 2022, Drawstring Bags Workshop

See PDF file for details :-)

Hi everyone,


I hope that you have enjoyed the Christmas break and have kept well. This year our group will be meeting once again at the same venue on the second Saturday of the month and we will be starting off the year with a fantastic workshop by Neralie and Valda. They will be showing us how they sew drawstring bags and, as you can tell from the attached photos, this will be another informative and interesting presentation. Please read the attached PDF for Neralie's description of the workshop. The details are as follows:

How to Sew Drawstring Bags Workshop

Date: 12th March
Time: 10-12 noon
Topic: Different methods of making drawstring bags as per attached PDF.
Where:Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:    $5.00
RSVP:  10th March to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring if contacting me on the actual morning of the workshop.


On the 30th April Racheal from Birdsong Market Garden will be demonstrating how to do lacto-fermentation. Please let me know if there is a topic you would like covered in a workshop later on in the year. 


It will be great to catch up once again and I hope you can make it to a few of our get-togethers during 2022. 


See you then,


Michele


​
simple_living_feb2022.pdf
File Size: 28 kb
File Type: pdf
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November 2021
​

Hi everyone,


We will be having our last workshop of the year on Saturday 13th November and we would love you to come along and enjoy our last time together this year. 

Firstly we will have morning tea and if everyone could bring along something Christmassy to eat that would be great. Then Margy will do a hands-on workshop when we can all make a macrame Christmas wreath or Christmas tree which everyone can take home. Then Margaret will demonstrate how to gift wrap your gifts with fabric in the Furoshiki style and will bring along some fabric for you to try the technique for yourself if there is time. Neralie and Valda have given me some samples of Christmas decorations which would be easy to make and I will give you the links to the tutorials in the next email after the workshop. 

This will be followed by Secret Santa for those who would like to participate by bringing along a homemade or homegrown gift to exchange. It doesn't have to be expensive so please join in. Some suggestions are preserves, plants, homemade soap or skin care products, an apron, sewn Christmas runner or serviettes for example. 

As usual we will have our swap/giveaway table where you can exchange excess produce, preserves, unwanted fabric or craft items in good condition, sewing patterns, eggs, sourdough starter, kefir grains, a scoby for Kombucha and the list goes on. Please take home what isn't swapped or given away.

Hopefully we can get back to having some food related workshops next year and Racheal may perhaps do a lacto-fermentation workshop. Valda and Neralie have already organised their sewing workshop for February and it looks like we will still have use of the venue next year. The $5 from our break-up will go to the church as they allow us to meet cost-free which is very generous of them. 

Here are the details for Saturday week:

Christmas Break-Up

Date:      13th NovemberTime:    10-12 noon
What:    Macrame Christmas tree and wreath workshop plus Furoshiki gift- wrapping demonstration.
Where:  Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:      $5
RSVP:   12th November to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring me if contacting me on the actual day of the workshop as I leave home early to set up for the workshop. 




Hope to see you there,


Michele

October 2021

On the 9th October Tim Nash will be teaching us how to identify weeds in our garden. In this workshop, Tim will talk to us about:
  • Weed identification
  • Weeds as indicators of soil health and conditions
  • Foraging for Weeds
  • Using Weeds in our Gardens and Homes
Tim is an environmental and soil scientist with experience providing technical advice for soil management and undertaking revegetation, site stabilisation, erosion and sediment control, soil survey, and natural resource management projects across a range of industries. As a lazy gardener, Tim loves the labour savings that come with welcoming weeds into the garden.  
Please note that the entry fee will be $10 instead of the usual $5. More details are as below:


Identifying Weeds Workshop:
Date:    9th October
Time:   10-12 noon
What:   Learn how to identify weeds in your garden
Where: Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:    $10
RSVP:  7th October  to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring me if contacting me on the actual day of the workshop. 


This will be a great workshop so I hope you can come along,


Michele

September 2021

​ReSew2020 Showcase and Fabric Twine Workshop

Date:    11th September
Time:    10-12 noon
What:    Inspired by the slow fashion movement, in 2020 Margy set a goal to refashion, repair, repurpose 20 items from recycled textiles and clothing. The project spilled over into 2021 but Margy would love to show you what she has made.  Also Margy will be teaching you how to make fabric twine from fabric scraps, making use of all material and saving it from landfill. Where: Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:    $5.00
RSVP:  9th September to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring if contacting me on the actual morning of the workshop.  



If you are new to our group you may not know that Margy started up Simple Living Toowoomba and here is a photo of our first workshop nine years ago. There were only three of us there, Margy, Annette and myself as Glenys showed us how to make pickles. The group has grown somewhat since then.


If you can bring something along for morning tea do let me know. Also please think about contributing to the swap/giveaway table which has been getting bigger and better each month. If anyone wants a Scoby to make their own Kombucha please contact me as one of our friends who often attends has some to give away. 

In October Tim Nash from the Toowoomba Permaculture Group will be presenting a workshop on identifying weeds. Tim is an environmental and soil scientist so I am sure he will be able to answer any gardening questions you might have. Then in Novemberwe have our breakup for the year and will be having our usual Secret Santa so you might like to plan ahead so that you can bring along an inexpensive gift of something handmade or homegrown to join in. 

Preparing veggie gardens for spring + plant and seed swap

​Here are the details for the July workshop:

Date:   9th July from 10am to midday.
Topic:  Preparing veggie gardens for spring + plant and seed swap
Where:Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton
Cost:   $5 which will be given to the church for the use of their facilities
RSVP: 8th July to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or text/ring Michele on 0423858059
PLARN AND YARN WORKSHOP
Date:   14th August
Time:   10-12 noon
What:   Plarn and Yarn Workshop. Learn how to make yarn from plastic bags and also improve your crochet, knitting and loom knitting skills or start from scratch. 
Where: Breakthrough Centre, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:    $5
RSVP: 11th August to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring me if contacting me on the actual day of the workshop. 


Also it would be appreciated if you could bring along something for the swap/giveaway table. Some ideas are homegrown produce, craft items not required any longer, sewing patterns, fabric, kefir grains, scoby to make kombucha,  etc. Please take home what isn't taken. Thanks. 


Hoping to see you next month,


Michele ​

July 2021

​Herb Workshop

Date:  10th July
Time:  10am till midday
What:  Using herbs and garlic products to build up immunity
Where:Breakthrough Centre, 13-15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba.
Cost:   $10
RSVP: 8th July to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or ring/text Michele on 0423858059. Please leave a message if I don't answer.

We will also have our swap/giveaway table for homegrown/handmade products but please take home what isn't taken. We had quite a variety of items at our last workshop which was good to see.

June 2021

Date: 12th June
Time 10-12 Noon
What: Soapmaking, cold process (with a discussion about other methods/variations) with Racheal Cameron from Birdsong Market Garden. We will do a basic cold process soap making demo. 
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton, 4350
Cost: $5
RSVP: to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059.

I believe the swap table will be on again, so please bring along surplus garden produce, etc to share, if you'd like to be a part of that.

May 2021

This is a reminder about our upcoming workshop on the 8th May as per details below:

Zero Waste Workshop with Alice Carwardine
 
Date:   8th May
Time:   10-12 noon
What:   Alice will be giving lots of practical ideas around the six R's of sustainability: refuse, reuse, rot, refill, recycle, reduce. She will also suggest ways to go plastic free and issues around fair trade.  
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $10
RSVP:  to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring me if contacting me on the actual day of the workshop. 


Please bring along something to put on our giveaway/swap table if you are able to do so. I know a lot of people have excess citrus fruit at this time of the year that they would love to part with so bring that along as well as any other produce etc. Some suggestions are sewing patterns, unwanted fabric, books on simple living but please take them home with you if nobody has a need for them. Thank you. I will bring some sourdough starter in case anyone wants some too. 


We will still need to restrict our numbers to 30 in the room where we meet and we won't be having morning tea at this stage. I have just contacted some radio stations to advertise this workshop so please book in soon if you intend to come along. 


Have a great weekend,


Michele

April 2021
​

Rag Rug Workshop


Date:   10th April
Time:   10-12 noon
What:   Rag Rug Workshop
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   8th April to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com. You can also phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring Michele if contacting her on the actual morning of the workshop. 




This is a hands-on workshop so you will need to bring along strips of fabric approximately 3cm wide. The strips can be torn or cut.  Great sources of material are sheets and doona covers from the second hand shop. It is hard to give an exact amount required but approx 8 metres x 1.2 metres or about 2 single sheets worth. Just bring a selection of different fabric that you want to use for your rug to start with on the day. You can always cut more later. You may also wish to just start by making a hot pot stand which will mean you need a lot less fabric but you learn the basic skills. T-shirt yarn is also suitable if you want to cut up your family's old T-shirts. 


Rag Rug Tool.  The tool we usually use is an elastic threader which you can get from Spotlight or Lincraft. A large safety pin used for nappies would also be suitable. 


Once again we will have our giveaway/swap table. We had a lot of contributions last time  so if you can bring along something that would be great. Please note that morning tea will not be served at our workshops at this stage.

Thanks heaps,

Michele
​

March 2021

​Our March workshop will be presented by Neralie and Valda and they will be teaching us how to 'Learn to love ZIPPERS' and you can read more information about this in the attached PDF file. Please let me know if you can't read it.

Here are the details about the venue etc:

Learn to love ZIPPERS workshop

Date:   13th March
Time:   10-12 noon
What:   Learn how to insert zippers easily and other sewing tips
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton, Toowoomba
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   Thursday 11th March to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or           phone/text Michele on 0423858059. Please text or ring me if contacting me on the actual day of the workshop. 

Once again we will have our giveaway/swap table. We had a lot of contributions last Saturday  so if you can bring along something next time that would be great. In order to let everyone have their pick of items we will start the swap after we are all seated and then those who have brought something along can choose what they want to take home and after that those who haven't been able to bring along something can choose. I think that worked well last time and gave everyone a chance to pick something. Once again, please check the table when leaving and take home whatever you have brought if it hasn't been taken. 

As there was a mix-up with bookings last week and, at one stage, it looked like we were nearly at our limit of 30 people, it is essential that everyone books in beforehand and I will always respond to your emails or texts to let you know that you have been booked in. If you don't hear back from me then ring or text me to make sure I have received your email. We have to adhere to COVID restrictions of having only 30 people at our workshops. Many thanks to Trish, Margaret and Judy for taking contact details, etc. 

Judy has kindly agreed to present a Rag Rug workshop on the 10th April and I am sure she would appreciate having a few helpers who have made them before as these workshops are always well attended. If you have never heard of these rugs check out the very first time we were taught how to do them back in 2013 Rag Rugs.

Until restrictions concerning the serving of food are lifted we won't be having morning tea or any food workshops. 

Looking forward to seeing you at one of our classes,

Michele

February 2021

Hi everyone,

As things stand regarding COVID-19 restrictions in Queensland we are able to resume our workshops this year. We will be leaving any workshops involving food until later in 2021 until restrictions change and are sorry to say we won't be serving Morning Tea at this stage. However that could change as the year progresses of course. 

I think that all those who attended our break-up lunch at the City Golf Club last year enjoyed themselves and it was great to catch up with everyone who could attend. We have several workshops planned for this year but if you have anything in particular that you would like to learn then let me know and I will see what we can do. 

Racheal from Birdsong Market Garden will be presenting our first workshop which she originally planned for last year and you can find the details below. It would be great if more people could participate in the homegrown or homemade swap so do bring something along if you can. I would appreciate it if a few people could stay behind after the workshop finishes to help move the coffee tables as they are quite heavy. 

Here is the information about the workshop:

DIY Cleaning/Personal Products

Date:     13th February
Time:    10-12 noon
What:    A big part of homesteading, reducing your toxic load and reducing your household waste is learning to make your own cleaning and personal products. In February we'll be demonstrating how to make some of the more common products you use around the home:

Laundry Powder, Kitchen Spray, Window Cleaner, Scouring Powder, Boot Polish, Toilet Cleaner, air freshener, Sunblock, Oil Cleanser, Lip Balm, Moisturiser, Insect Repellent, Oil Perfume, DIY Tinctures and how to encapsulate your own supplements.

Where:   Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street,                                                         Wilsonton,Toowoomba
Cost:       $5
RSVP:     10th February to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or 
                 phone/text Michele on 0423858059

March  2020

Decluttering Workshop

Date:    7 March
Time:   10-12 noon
What:   In this open forum we will talk about topics such as:
  • The benefits of decluttering
  • Tips for decluttering
  • How to let go of sentimental items
  • Decluttering with children
  • How to declutter when other people in our homes are not so inclined
  • Creative ways to declutter
  • Other areas in our lives that we can look at decluttering ie calendar, email, work place etc.
This will be for people who would like help with decluttering but also for people who have gone through or are going through the process.  It would be great to hear your experiences as well.  
Where:   Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street, Toowoomba.
Cost:       $5.00
RSVP:      4 March to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059.

Please bring along some homemade or homegrown items for the swap table if you are able. Also if you have any sewing patterns you would like to share with others please bring them along as well. 

February 2020

Bunting and Bucket Hats Workshop
Date:    1 February
Time:    10-12noon
What:   Neralie and Valda will be demonstrating how to make bunting and bucket hats. Please open the PDF below for more details. 
Where:  Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:     $5
RSVP:    29 January to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059
bunting_and_bucket_hats.pdf
File Size: 187 kb
File Type: pdf
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November 2019

End of Year Gathering - Summer Treats

Date:    9 November
Time:    10-12noon
What:   As this is our final gathering for the year we will have a shared morning tea.  Margy will be giving a demonstration of some yummy, refined sugar free, summer treats - ice cream, ice blocks, sorbet and frozen yoghurt.  Then we will have a secret Santa, where you are invited to bring along a handmade or home grown gift to the value of $5. This is totally optional - don't feel like you need to participate in this. We would love you to come along anyway and help us to celebrate another wonderful year of SLT
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    Free
RSVP:   6 November to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

October 2019

Keeping Backyard Chooks 

Date:    12 October
Time:    10-12noon
What:   Debbie, from Optimise Learning, is a backyard gardener who loves to watch contented chickens as they help her create an abundant edible garden.  During this workshop she’ll share tips on how to:
  • Keep your chickens happy and healthy
  • Plan practical housing and garden systems
  • Select and grow plants especially for chickens
  • Integrate chickens into your own backyard patch 

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops.

Where
: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   9 October to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

September 2019 

Food Preservation 

Date:    14 September
Time:    10-12noon
What:  This workshop is being run by Rachael from Birdsong Market Garden and Robyn. There's been a resurgence in preserving at home, and we're going to look at some of the ways you can save your seasonal surplus. I'll have some home preserves and common equipment on hand for you to see. Due to time constraints, we won't be able to demonstrate all of these, but can definitely talk through them and try and answer any questions. 
-Pressure Canning (which allows for long term shelf storage of low acid foods, including meat and broth)
-Water Bath Canning (for fruit and higher acid vegetables like tomatoes)
-Salting
-Drying/Dehydrating
-Fermenting
-Pickling
 
We can also cover where to source bulk produce if you don't grow it yourself.

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops.

Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   11 September to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

August 2019

Lomandra Basket Weaving

Date
:    10 August
Time:    10-12noon
What:   In this demonstration Katie will explain and demonstrate some different techniques for basket weaving with natural materials in particular lomandra.  Lomandra is a grassy plant that is found in many household gardens.   

You can check out some of Katie's work on her facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/lomandraweaving/ 

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops.

Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $10
RSVP:   7 August to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

July 2019

Leadlighting and Mosaic Demonstration

Date:    13 July
Time:    10-12noon
What:   In this demonstration Jo will explain and demonstrate some different techniques to do with glass including lead lighting and copper foiling.  She will also take you through some of the steps for creating mosaics. Jo's work is just beautiful.  I think you will be truly inspired to give it a go yourself. 

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops.

Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   10 July to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

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June 2019

Visible Mending - Boro and Sashiko inspired 

Date:    8 June
Time:    10-12noon
What:   In this hands on workshop you will be learning a form of visible mending that is inspired by sashiko, a form of Japanese embroidery and boro, a traditional style of patchwork used in Japan for mending. Although it is used as a way to mend clothes it is also a great way to add a decorative element to any piece of clothing. 

​You will need:

  • A pair of old jeans, denim shorts or skirt - any item of clothing that you would like to decorate or patch up will be fine.  Does not have to be denim. 
  • Scissors
  • Needles, crochet cotton and fabric scraps will be supplied although you are most welcome to bring your own as you might have some favourites that you would like to use.  

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops.

Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   5 June to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059
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May 2019

How to make a Kokedama and Plant Propogation 

Date:    11 May
Time:    10am-12noon
What:   Peta will be demonstrating how to make a Kokedama which is the Japanese art of growing plants in a moss-covered ball of soil wrapped with string.  She made me a beautiful one as a thank you gift when I finished up at Concordia College. See a photo of my kokedama attached.

Rick (Rachael's amazing husband and market gardener) will also be giving us some tips and tricks about plant propogation which is the process of growing new plants from a variety of sources: seeds, cuttings, and other plant parts.  Rick has a wealth of knowledge in this area which he has kindly offered to share with us.​

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops.
​
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   8 May to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059
​

March 2019

Plant Based Cooking

Date:    9 March
Time:    1-3pm        ****Please note later time slot****
What:   Asher (former owner of Little Seed Restaurant) - My food ethos has always been about using the best quality produce sourced as local as possible and treated with respect. In 2016 it was this same ethos which eventually led to my wife and I changing our lifestyle and our restaurant to be completely plant-based vegan realising a plant-based lifestyle is both healing for the body, soul and the environment.

​
Ethics and social consciousness is what drew me down this path but then I also quickly realised plant-based eating was not only more healthy but opened up a whole new world of creativity, flavour and excitement for cooking for me. I want to empower people by showing just how simple, fun and beneficial cooking plant-based can be. 
I focus on as much as possible using local, organic and nutrient dense produce and cook without processed oils, gluten or refined/processed foods with kitchen practices that promote reducing food waste and composting.


Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $10
RSVP:   6 March to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops. 

February 2019

​Bag Frenzy
 
Date:    9 February
Time:    10-12 noon
What:   Neralie and Valda will be demonstrating how to make a couple of different types of fabric bags.  They will show us a number of different ways to attach handles and how to decorate the bags using applique and reverse applique.  They will also be providing the materials for you to practice doing the applique yourself.  Please bring along a pair of sewing scissors and needles.  If you don't have them don't worry, there will be plenty to share.  
 
Neralie and Valda will also be bringing along some of the beautiful bags they have made.  Their work is very inspiring!
 
Check out the attachment for more information and pictures. 
 
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:    $5
RSVP:   6 February to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059
 
As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops. 
 
simple_living____9_february_2019.pdf
File Size: 607 kb
File Type: pdf
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November 2018

Christmas Upcycling Ideas

Date:    24th November
Time:    10-12 noon
What:   For our Christmas get-together we will have some mini-workshops which will look at ways we can upcycle things we have around the home for presents, wrapping, decorations etc. We will also have a Christmas Secret Santa where you can bring a present to the value of $5 that you have made, grown, baked or upcycled. Also if you would like to wear an item of clothing that you have upcycled, perhaps you attended our Slow Clothing workshop earlier in the year with Jane Milburn, we will have a mini fashion parade as well.  All lots of fun but please don't feel like you have to wear upcycled clothes or be involved in the Secret Santa.  Just come along for the fellowship and laughs.  
Also please bring a plate of morning tea to share. 
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Cost:     Free
RSVP:   21st November to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com or phone Michele on 0423858059

As usual please feel free to bring along any handmade goods or excess homegrown produce you would like to share with those attending the workshops. 

September 2018

Pretty Petals-Exploring delicious edible flowers 

Date: 8 September
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $10
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Requirements:  Author, eco educator and organic horticulturist Linda Brennan from Ecobotanica, is our September guest presenter. You’re sure to go home from this workshop with a fresh approach to growing your flowers and using them in a delectable range of meals for you and your family.

Linda will take us on a virtual journey around her garden, as we learn about the blooming beautiful treats awaiting the home green thumb and cook. (You may already have some of her edible flowers growing in your garden right now!)
 
We’ll sample our way through a glorious garden selection of edible flowers that you can grow as companions to fruit trees, vegetables and herbs, and some that make the prettiest garden displays as well.
Some of these blooms are savoury, while some are sweet and delicious, but all create that extra special impact in a dish as a feature flavour.
 
Linda’s enthusiasm for edible flowers and using them on a daily basis is evident as she shares with you her recipes , home remedies and tips for making the most of these edible blooms from your garden.
 
When it comes to growing edible flowers, you’ll go home armed with inspiration to make your garden an organic oasis that provides an abundance of pretty petals.
 
Linda will demonstrate how to make Sunflower pesto from her beautiful award nominated, unique Australian book, gardening/cooking book ‘A Delicious Bunch, growing and cooking with edible flowers’. You’ll decorate gluten free Society Garlic Biscuits with an array of petals to increase the flavour and nutritional benefits as well.
 
Linda will be making her book available to members for purchase on the day, at a discount price. It’s normally $39.95 in the stores. Linda will have it for sale for 1 book for $35 or 3 books for $90 by cash or card. You will also be able to purchase seeds of edible flowers, all grown organically, from Linda’s own garden, at $3 per pack.

RSVP: 5 September
​

August 2018

Rag Rug Making

Date: 25 August
Time: 9-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Toowoomba.
Requirements: Strips of fabric approximately 3cm wide. The strips can be torn or cut. A great source of material is sheets and doona covers from the second hand shop. It is hard to give an exact amount required but approx 8 metres x 1.2 metres or about 2 single sheets worth. Just bring a selection of different fabric that you want to use for your rug to start with on the day. You can always cut more later. There will be some strips available on the day if you are unsure of how to cut the fabric or you run out. 

You may also wish to just start by making a hot pot stand which will mean you need a lot less fabric but you learn the basic skills. 
Rag Rug Tool. The tool I used to make my rug was an elastic threader (see picture below) which you can get from Spotlight or Lincraft. A large safety pin used for nappies would also be suitable. 
Bookings Required: RSVP 22 August.
Picture
Picture
Picture

July 2018

Cheesemaking Workshop

Date:   21 July
Time:   10.00-12noon
Cost:    $5
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton. 
What:   Patricia will be demonstrating how to make feta and mozzarella cheese and will also talk about how to make camembert. Patricia has requested that people wear a hat, scarf, hairnet or tie back your hair to avoid hair in the cheese as you observe the process close up.  There will be some cheese tasting as well.  
RSVP:  18 July

June 2018

Date:   23 June
Time:   10.00-12noon
Cost:    $5
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake Street, Wilsonton. 
What:   If you love sewing but find it too expensive to buy new fabric or you are interested in finding out what you can do to recycle old clothes, sheets, doona covers etc, this is the workshop for you.  In this workshop we will show you examples of what you can do with recycled fabric such as quilts, dresses, bags, rugs and jewelry. We would love you to bring your own examples to share with others as I am sure many of you do this already.  There will also be a hands-on component to the workshop where we will be teaching you how to make t-shirt yarn and then turn it into a simple necklace.  So you will need to bring along a normal old t-shirt (the bigger the better), needle, matching thread and a pair of scissors. Using the t-shirt yarn we will also teach you some basic macramé knots that can be incorporated into lots of different projects. 
RSVP:   20 June

April and May 2018

Birdsong Market Garden Farm Tour
Date: 28th April
Time: 10am-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Birdsong Market Garden, 118 Boundary St, Cranley, 4350
What:
Many people already know about the dangers of chemical fertilisers, insecticides, fungicides and pesticides in standard produce. Organic farming is becoming increasingly popular as people seek out safe and healing foods BUT, nutrition farming takes organic farming to another level, where we're not just looking at avoiding chemicals, but focusing on replenishing and balancing the soil to create produce as nutritious as it was designed to be.Birdsong Market Garden is one of the new generation of small farms, remineralising their soil and focusing on nutrition. Come along and tour the farm with farmers Rick and Racheal Cameron and see how it works.
Racheal will be providing morning tea so please RSVP to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com by 25th April so she knows how many to cater for.

Soap Making and Beeswax Wraps Workshop

Date: 26th May
Time: 9:45am-12 Noon
Cost: $5
Where: 13-15 Blake St, Wilsonton (Range Christian Fellowship)
What:Racheal will be showing us how she makes soap using the room temperature method. Then Suanne from Green Dandelion will demonstrate how to make beeswax wraps and will bring along her bottles of beeswax, resin and coconut oil mixture to sell as well as brushes, applicators and fabric for those who want to buy the complete kit.

We have had requests for both workshops as they have both been very popular ones in the past. Racheal did a beeswax wrap workshop last year but some people were disappointed that they missed it so we are fortunate that Suanne now has everything you need to get started with making your own. Also Racheal will have her wonderful homemade soap for sale too.
RSVP by 23rd May to simplelivingtoowoomba@gmail.com

February and March 2018

Herb Workshop

Date: 17 February
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 
What:  Toowoomba herbologist and trained horticulturalist, Josh, will be giving us tips and advice on how to grow herbs, what herbs grow well in our area and how to use herbs for medicinal purposes. 

RSVP: 14 February.


A Slow Clothing Conversation

Date: 3 March (please note this is earlier in the month and not our usual 3rd Saturday)
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $10
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 

What:  Slow Clothing is the antithesis of fast fashion. 

It is a way of thinking about, choosing and wearing clothes so they bring value, meaning and joy to everyday. We consider the substance of clothing as part of an holistic approach to living lightly on Earth.

Join us for a conversation with social entrepreneur Jane Milburn about how to get the best out of existing clothes.

Jane is the author of a new book, Slow Clothing: finding meaning in what we wear.
It was launched by ABC-TV's War on Waste crusader Craig Reucassel late last year.

Bring along a few garments you are holding on to, but not wearing, and we will discuss options to upcycle them (and implement within the timeframe).
Alternatively bring along garments that need mending or minor adjustments to extend their wearable life.

Check out Jane, her book and her work at http://textilebeat.com and watch her TEDxQUT talk at http://tedxqut.com/video/slow-clothing-material-world-jane-milburn  

RSVP: 31 February

November 2017

Christmas Workshops and Secret Santa

Date: 18 November
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: Free
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 

What:  There will be three workshops that you can do on the day:
  • Margaret will show 4 different ways to tie furoshiki, a type of traditional Japanese cloth used for wrapping or carrying and she will also display her collection of furoshiki.  
  • Racheal will show you how to blend quality salt with various herbs, spices and ingredients like vanilla. A very simple and versatile homemade gift option...especially for those who love to cook or are hard to buy for. 
  • I will show you a simple way to gift wrap your presents.

On the day we will also have some items for sale:
  • Racheal will have some delicious vegetables from her market garden.
  • Margaret will be selling some crocheted dishcloths and facewashers. 
  • Shiralee will be selling what she calls 'stocking stuffer' gifts. Felt book marks, felt brooches, felt angel ornaments, a couple of tea towels, hand painted greeting cards and painted ornaments. All at super low prices for present bargain hunters!

As it is our last event for the year instead of our normal swap we are going to have a Secret Santa.  If you would like to be involved please bring a small, wrapped, handmade or homegrown gift up to the value of $5 and we will have some fun exchanging gifts.


Also please bring along a small plate of food to share for morning tea.

RSVP: 15 November
​

October 2017

No workshop in September

Sourdough Workshop - Back by popular demand.  Chris did a sourdough workshop for us in November last year.  

Date: 21 October 2017
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost $5
Where: 
Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 
What: Chris will be bringing several stages of the sourdough along to demonstrate how to feed, knead and bake the sourdough. Last workshop Chris baked a straight white, high-top loaf and a savoury peasant loaf which was like a pull apart - with cheese, cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs. It was delicious! Chris will have some sourdough starter for people to take home so if you are interested bring along a clean jar. Depending on numbers as I think this will be a popular workshop there may not be enough for everybody.

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items that you have either made or grown.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

​Bookings Required: RSVP 18 October.

August 2017


Following the amazing ABC TV series "War on Waste" (http://www.abc.net.au/ourfocus/waronwaste/) where presenter, Craig Reucassel, set out to uncover how much waste we as a nation produce and what we can do to reduce this amount our next Simple Living workshop will be on this timely topic. Australia is ranked 5th highest for generating the most municipal waste in the world and our waste is growing at double the rate of our population.  Personally after watching the series my husband and I were so convicted that we have made quite a few changes to our home and how we shop.  The focus for this workshop is to give you lots of ideas to help you reduce your household waste.  

War on Waste Workshop

Date: 19 August
Time: 10.00-12 noon.  
Cost: $5
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 
What: This workshop will be full of ideas on how to reduce your waste. In the first half of the workshop we will have heaps of tips, tricks and products to help you reduce your plastic and disposable product use. Racheal will be demonstrating how easy it is to make beeswax wraps which can be used instead of Clingwrap.  This part of the workshop is really a forum where we are hoping that lots of people bring their hints on how to reduce waste. With plastic free July wrapping up you may have lots of ideas on what 'disposable' products can be replaced with reusable/washable ones.

The second half of the workshop will be presented by Ann from the Toowoomba Regional Council.  She will be talking about composting, worm farming and yellow bin recycling. There will also be time to ask any questions that you may have. 

Bookings Required: 16 August

We will also have a home grown and hand made swap where you can bring up to five items that you have grown or made and then swap them for other items that are brought along. The swap will begin at 9.50am so you will need to have your items on the table by 9.45am.  
​

June and July 2017


School Holidays Soapmaking Class
Date: Tuesday 27th June 
Time: 9:30am 
Where: Birdsong Market Garden, 118 Boundary St, Cranley, 4350
What: Basic cold-process soapmaking is easier than you think! Just 4 ingredients (which you can find at the supermarket), about 1/2 hour of your time and some basic kitchen equipment is all that's required to make you own soap at home. You then have huge flexibility to be creative and add in all sorts of herbs, spices, clays, fragrances and the like to personalise your soaps.
The class will take about 1 hour. You're welcome to bring your children (my 6 will likely all be here!)

Cost: $10 per adult and you'll go home with an instruction sheet and a handcrafted bar of soap

Contact Racheal to RSVP at the_other_rach@hotmail.com or 0431696234


Sashiko Embroidery Workshop
Date: 22 July
Time: 10.00-12 noon.  
Cost: $10 
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 
What:  Margaret will be doing a hands-on workshop where participants will be making a mug mat which is a large coaster incorporating the traditional Sashiko embroidery method - see below for an example of Sashiko embroidery (not the actual pattern we will be using). Margaret will be supplying all the materials needed for the workshop including material, needles, thread and wadding. 
​
What to bring: Ruler and 2B pencil.
Bookings Required: 19 July - Limited to 10 participants
​
Picture
Photo sourced from http://www.embroidery.rocksea.org/hand-embroidery/sashiko/sashiko-lesson-1/

May and June 2017

N.B. Please note change of venues

Decluttering Open Forum

Date: 20 May
Time: 10.00-12 noon.  
Cost: Free
Where:  Dr Price meeting room (located between the Council customer service building and Mothercraft childcare building in Little St)
What:  This will be an open discussion about decluttering.  We will talk about topics such as:
  • The benefits of decluttering
  • Tips for decluttering
  • How do we let go of sentimental items
  • Decluttering with children
  • How do we declutter when other people in our homes are not so inclined
  • Creative ways to declutter
  • Do we just need to declutter our homes or are there other things we could declutter ie calendar, email, work place etc.
This will be for people who would like help with decluttering but also for people who have gone through or are going through the process.  It would be great to hear your experiences as well.

Bookings Required: 17 May. 

Permaculture Workshop
Date: 17 June
Time: 10.00-12 noon.  
Cost: $5 
Where: Range Christian Fellowship, 15 Blake St, Wilsonton 
What:  Michael Wardle from Savour Soil Permaculture - http://www.savoursoilpermaculture.com.au will be giving an introductory information session about permaculture.  If there is any particular topic or question that you would like Michael to cover please let me know and I will pass it on to him.

Bookings Required: 14 June

March 2017

Homemade Health and Beauty Products Workshop (Racheal's Place)
Date: Thursday 9 March
Time: 2pm - 1-2 hours. The demo is about an hour, and then questions etc are welcome at the end.
Cost: $10 which includes a recipe sheet and a little kit with ingredients to make a recipe or two at home for yourself!
Where: 118 Boundary St, Cranley.
​
What:  Lip balm, face and body wash, hair moisturiser, oil cleansing, bath salts, tooth powder, insect repellent and more can be made simply and safely at home with inexpensive non toxic ingredients. Come along if you'd like to find out how. We may even have time to make a few other products also!

Bookings Required: 
Wednesday March 8th to racheal@birdsongmarketgarden.com.au

Felting Workshop - Toowoomba Spinners and Weavers
Date: 18 March
Time: 9.30-12 noon.  
Cost: $10
Where: Toowoomba Showgrounds - Homestead Building clearly signed with Toowoomba Spinners and Weavers. 
What:  Marilyn from the Toowoomba Spinners and Weavers will be conducting a felting workshop from 9.30-11.00am where the participants will be making a flower out of fine wool using the wet felting technique which could be used as a decoration on a hat or corsage.  Afterwards there will an opportunity to speak to other members in the group and to watch them doing some spinning and weaving. 

Each person will need to bring:
  • Some lux flakes - about a tablespoon each
  • A cake of hard soap
  • A plastic shopping bag that will be cut up
  • A piece bubble wrap about 35-40 cm square
  • Needle and threads - grey or pale blue.
  • An old detergent bottle - to be used for warm soapy water

Bookings Required: 15 March. Places are limited to 15 people. 
​

February 2017

Jam Making Demonstration
Date: 18 February
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road
What:  Making jam is a great way to preserve food and use fruit when you can buy it cheaply or have an abundance of your own produce. Glenys is a master jam maker.  She makes jam out of everything and anything.  She has just recently made mango and ginger jam.  Doesn't that sound good!  For this demonstration Glenys will be taking you through the steps of jam making, giving you lots of tips and tricks and many suggestions for jam combinations. She will also be giving you a small bottle of jam to take home on the day.  

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items that you have either made or grown.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

​
Bookings Required: 15 February

November 2016

Sourdough Workshop
Date: 19 November 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road
What: Chris will be bringing several stages of the sourdough along to demonstrate how to feed, knead and bake the sourdough. She will bake a straight white, high-top loaf and a savoury peasant loaf which is more like a pull apart - with cheese, cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs. Sounds delicious! Chris will have some sourdough starter for people to take home so if you are interested bring along a clean jar. Depending on numbers as I think this will be a popular workshop there may not be enough for everybody.
We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items that you have either made or grown.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.
Bookings Required: RSVP 16 November.

October 2016

Essential Oil Workshop
Date: 22 October 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  

What: Racheal will be talking about different grades of oils and how they can be used for therapy, cleaning and beauty products. Racheal will be giving each person who attends a 1ml sample bottle, with an info sheet on how to use it, with some of the most versatile oils, like lemon, clove, tea tree etc. That way you can try it out for yourself at home in some recipes.

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

Bookings Required: RSVP 19 October
​

September 2016

Herb Workshop
Date: 10 September 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Mary and Murray, a delightful couple who have been herbalists for many years will be talking about how to grow herbs, what herbs to grow in Toowoomba and how to use them.  With extensive knowledge of herbal medicine they will also demonstrate how to make an ointment and a tincture.  

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

Bookings Required: RSVP 7 September

September 2016 (Note: this is NOT a class run by SLT but may be of interest to those who have not made it to a soapmaking class previously)
Oakey Library (also known as Jondaryn Shire Library) are hosting a FREE cold process soapmaking workshop at 10am on Thursday 1st September. Spaces are limited and bookings are essential. I believe the class is limited to about 12 people, so if you've already participated in a soapmaking workshop, spaces for this one are probably best left to people who haven't ever had the opportunity to attend before.
Address: 62 Campbell St, Oakey QLD 4401
Phone: (07) 4692 0154

August 2016

Cider and Mead Workshop
Date: 20 August 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Mead (honey wine) is the most ancient wine known to man. If you would like to learn another way to use your honey, we will explore some of the basics of how to hand craft Mead and some of the Mead types (Cysers, Melomels, Methoglins etc). We will also learn about some basics of making Cider (with apples) and Perry (with pears) at home too.

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

Bookings Required: RSVP 17 August
​

June 2016

Essential Oil Workshop
Date: 11 June 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  

What: Racheal will be talking about different grades of oils and how they can be used for therapy, cleaning and beauty products. Racheal will be giving each person who attends a 1ml sample bottle, with an info sheet on how to use it, with some of the most versatile oils, like lemon, clove, tea tree etc. That way you can try it out for yourself at home in some recipes.

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.


Bookings Required: RSVP 8 June
​

July 2016


I know I have skipped June and will let you know soon what is happening then but I wanted to let you all know about our fermentation workshop in July as I know it will be popular and will book out quickly.  Elspeth Haswell-Smith from Food For Life has agreed to do the workshop for us.  
​

Date: 23 July 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $10
Where: Elspeth's Cafe, 18 Hill St  
What: Participants are to bring the following - 
  • 2 jars, minimum 1lt capacity. 
  • Vegetables and herbs! Please be creative however if you would like a recipe to follow bring some beetroot, carrot and ginger. Or some cabbage and apples, carrot and turmeric, fresh beans and broccoli, cauliflower and curry powder.... email me if you have concerns. 
  • Fruit - apples, ginger, fresh dates, fresh figs, dried figs/dates, whichever fruit you have a available.
  • Chopping Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Bowl
  • Tea Towel
Parking - There is a large carpark behind the cafe on Grange St, Toowoomba. This is the designated cafe parking. There is a walkway to the cafe from the carpark. 

For more information and bookings please go to this address: http://www.foodforlifecoach.com.au/tickets/ferment-workshop-july-23rd
​

May 2016

Tunisian Crochet Workshop
Date: 21 May 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Tunisian crochet, also known as Afghan crochet, creates a look that is a combination of both knitting and crochet. For tunisian crochet you will need an elongated crochet hook that has a smooth barrel - like a cross between a crochet hook and knitting needle.  I use a double ended crochet hook but looking online some people use one with a stopper on the end like a knitting needle.  They need to be about 8-10mm wide. My husband has made six of them which are available for $5 each. If you would like to purchase one please let me know so I can put one aside. You will also need some 8 ply wool.  

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

Bookings Required: RSVP 18 May

March and April 2016

Sausage Making Workshop
Date: 12 March 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Racheal's husband, Rick, will be showing us how to make sausages.  I am so excited about this workshop.  I have been wanting to do this for ages.  As well as showing us how to make them we may even be lucky enough to get a taste!

We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.


Bookings Required: RSVP 10 March

Bee Keeping
Date: 16 April 2016
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: 140 Carroll Rd, Hodgsonvale (red mail box with the name HUNT on it)  
What: Mr Neville Hunt from the Beekeepers Association has very kindly invited us to come to his place to see how to keep bees. He will show us the equipment required and outline the processes involved.  

There will be no swap on this day.

​Bookings Required: RSVP 13 April

October and November 2015

Homemade Cleaning Products
Date: 17 October
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Learning to make your own cleaning products is easy and very cost effective.  Racheal will be showing us how to make washing soda and liquid soap (bases for other recipes), laundry powder, glass cleaner, softscrub (for ceramic surfaces, sinks and benches), mold and mildew remover, gunk/label remover, furniture polish (for timber), oven cleaner and multipurpose spray.


We will be having our handmade and homegrown swap before the workshop.  If you would like to be involved be bring up to five items.  All items need to be on the table by 9.45am.

Bookings Required: RSVP 15 October

Christmas Decorations and Wrapping ideas
Date: 21 November
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: Free
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: This free event will be a mixture of workshops, demonstrations and displays of a whole variety of different ideas for Christmas decorations and wrapping ideas.  If anyone would like to do a mini workshop or bring along some homemade Christmas decorations for display please let me know.  

As it is our last event for the year instead of our normal swap we are going to have a Secret Santa.  If you would like to be involved please bring a small, wrapped, handmade or homegrown gift up to the value of $5 and we will have some fun exchanging gifts.

Also bring along a small plate of food to share for morning tea.

Bookings Required: RSVP 18 November

July and August 2015

Craft and Chat with Rhonda Hetzel
Date: 18 July
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: Free
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: An informal morning with everybody bringing their own craft that they are working on, sitting around the table and having a chat about what simple living means to us.  There will be limited numbers so if you are interested please RSVP as soon as possible. There will be no charge for the morning but please bring a plate of morning tea to share. 
Bookings Required

Keeping Backyard Chooks
Date: 15 August
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Learn all about keeping your own chooks including breeds that you can buy, feed and chicken coops.  If you would like to ask Victor, our presenter, any specific questions please direct them to Michele (nannachel@gmail.com) and she will pass the questions on. 
Bookings Required: RSVP 12 August

May and June 2015

Gluten Free, Dairy Free Cooking Information and Demonstration
Date: 23 May
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: Janelle will take you through some basic information about gluten, coeliac disease, and label reading; have a chat about ingredients, foods to avoid, and how to cook gluten free and dairy free on a budget; as well as give tips that will help children and adults live gluten free. She will also demonstrate how to cook with some of her favourite gluten free and dairy free ingredients, including quinoa and polenta.
Bookings Required: RSVP 19 May

Organic Gardening
Date: 13 June
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: A horticulturist from Bunnings will be coming to give a presentation about organic gardening. If you have any particular questions that you would like answered please send them to Michele on nannachel@gmail.com. Michele will collate them and pass them on.
Bookings Required: RSVP 10 June

February and March 2015

Rag Rug Making
Date: 21 February
Time: 9-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road
Requirements: Strips of fabric approximately 3cm wide. The strips can be torn or cut. A great source of material is sheets and doona covers from the second hand shop. It is hard to give an exact amount required but approx 8 metres x 1.2 metres or about 2 single sheets worth. Just bring a selection of different fabric that you want to use for your rug to start with on the day. You can always cut more later. There will be some strips available on the day if you are unsure of how to cut the fabric or you run out. 
Rag Rug Tool. The tool I used to make my rug was an elastic threader (see picture below) which you can get from Spotlight or Lincraft. A large safety pin used for nappies would also be suitable. 
Bookings Required: RSVP 18 February
Picture
Picture
Picture
Homemade Health and Beauty Products
Date: 28 March
Time: 10-12 noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road  
What: At the workshop we will be demonstrating a variety of homemade health and beauty products such as vapour rub, sunscreen, lip balm, solid perfume, facial cleanser and shaving cream.
Bookings Required: RSVP 18 March

November 2014

Frugal DIY Christmas Gift Ideas
Date: November 15 
Time: 10-12noon 
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Road.
Cost: Free

This free event will be a mixture of workshops, demonstrations and displays of a whole variety of different ideas that you can make for Christmas gifts. RSVP by 12 Nov. 

Mandy will be running a hands-on workshop making soy candles.  So please bring a tea cup or vase to make your candle. 

You can also have a go at stamping spoons to make something like a plant marker.  You will need a dessert spoon preferably silver as they are easier to stamp, although a little more difficult to find.  If you can flatten the spoon with a hammer before you come that will make it quicker to complete the project.

Also we will have a display with items such as a calico angel, decorated candles, junk journals, mini albums and handmade wrapping paper from brown paper bags. Tonya from The Crafty Mummy is also going to bring some of her Christmas decorations to put on display.

If anyone else would like to do a mini workshop, demonstration or display a gift idea please let me know.  The more the merrier!

As it is our last event for the year instead of our normal swap we are going to have a Secret Santa.  If you would like to be involved please bring a small, wrapped, handmade gift up to the value of $5 and we will have some fun exchanging out gifts.

Please let me know if you would like to come along

October 2014

Breadmaking Demonstration
Date: Saturday 11 October
Time: 10-12noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Rd
Bookings Required

Margaret is going to show us how to make a basic loaf - Mix, knead, rise, punchdown, rise, cook, eat which can all be done in 2 hours.  I can smell that bread cooking now! 

We will also have a swap table. We will start at 9.30am and combine our swap with a cuppa. So if you would like you can bring along up to five handmade or homegrown items.

August 2014

Fermentation Hands-On Workshop
Date: Saturday 23 August
Time: 10-12noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Rd
Bookings Required.

Lynda will be taking us through the steps of fermenting vegetables and Racheal will show us how to make some fermented drinks.  

For this workshop you will need to bring:
  • one whole cabbage (some red cabbage looks good mixed through it as well)
  • good quality himalayan salt or sea salt
  • a few sterilised jars
  • a large bowl for mixing the veggies in 
  • a sharp knife
  • a cutting board

Optional extras
  • red cabbage
  • carrot
  • beetroot
  • ginger
  • onion
  • chilli
  • coriander

We will once again have a swap table. We will start at 9.30am and combine our swap with a cuppa. So if you would like you can bring along up to five handmade or homegrown items.

July 2014

Crochet Shopping Bag
Date: Tuesday 8 July
Time: 7-9pm
Cost: Nil
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Administration Building, 23 Glenvale Rd
What to bring: 4mm crochet hook, 4ply cotton.
No bookings required.  Just come along.

Pasta and Pasta Sauce Demonstration
Date: Saturday 26 July
Time: 10-12noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Rd
Bookings Required.

Joshua Philips will be giving a demonstration on pasta making and showing us how to make a couple of sauces to go with the pasta.  As a young man Joshua is a terrific role model for other young people so it would be great if we could really encourage other young people to come and see how to make pasta. 

We are also going to combine the workshop with a homegrown and handmade swap. The swap and cuppa will start at 9.30am.  The swap and cuppa are free and don't require bookings!  Just bring along up to five items that you have grown or made for the swap table.  You are welcome to come to both the workshop and cuppa/swap or just one of them.
 

May 2014

Haloumi, Paneer and Ricotta Cheese Demonstration
Date: Saturday 24 May
Time: 10-12noon
Cost: $5
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Rd
Bookings Required by 21 May.

Ron Phillips will demonstrate how to make haloumi, paneer and ricotta cheese.  

We are also going to combine the workshop with a homegrown and handmade swap. The swap will start at 9am followed by a cuppa at 9.30am.  The swap and cuppa are free and don't require bookings!  Just bring along up to five items that you have grown or made for the swap table.  You are welcome to come to both the workshop and cuppa/swap or just one of them.

November 2013

Button Jewellery 
Date: Saturday 23 November                                   
Time: 9.30-11.30pm   
Cost: $10
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Rd                           
Bookings Required.
Make a necklace and bracelet out of buttons.  Great Christmas present idea.

Cooking From Scratch Workshop
Date: Monday 18 November      
Time: 5-7pm
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 23 Glenvale Rd
Cost: $10 + $15 cost of ingredients               
Bookings Required – Limited spaces available
This month learn how to make Christmas treats and gift ideas. All ingredients and equipment will be supplied. Plus you get to take home
what you cook!  These workshops are for those wanting to learn how to cook or to get new ideas. 

Simple Living Morning Tea
Date: Saturday 9 November
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.        
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap.
For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or
potholders. 

July and August 2013 Program

Craft, Coffee and a Chat
Date: Wednesday 3 July and 7 August
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: Nil 
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No Bookings Required
Bring along any craft project that you are working on and a plate of supper to share.

Simple Living Morning Tea
Date: Saturday 13 July and 10 August
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.         Caramel Popcorn Demonstration 13 July
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap. For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or potholders. 

Cooking From Scratch Workshop
Date: Saturday 15 June
Time: 9.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $10 + $15 for cost of ingredients       Total Cost - $25                      
Bookings Required – Limited spaces available
in July learn how to make Soup and Freezer Fillers such as garlic bread and fried rice.  August will be Sweet Treats.  Plus you get to take home what you cook!  All ingredients and equipment will be supplied. If anybody is interested in an evening workshop please let us know as we will add more workshops if there is enough interest.  These workshops are for those wanting to learn how to cook or to get new ideas.

Natural Pest Control
Date: Saturday 24 August
Time: 9.30-12.00 noon   
Cost: $10.                                Bookings Required.  
“The Principles of Organic Growing”, “Healthy Soil” and “Organic Pest and Disease Control” will be the topics covered in this hands-on workshop. 
Participants will be making sprays etc and an open discussion will be held on each topic.

Make a booking on the Contact and Booking Form.

For a printable version of the program please download the program here - Simple Living Toowoomba July and August

June 2013 Program

Craft, Coffee and a Chat
Date: Wednesday 5 June
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: Nil 
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No Bookings Required
Bring along any craft project that you are working on and a plate of supper to share.

Simple Living Morning Tea
Date: Saturday 8 June
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.                                Finnish Sima (lemon drink) and pulla (cinnamon rolls) demonstration included!
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap. For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or potholders. 

Cooking From Scratch Workshop
Date: Saturday 15 June
Time: 9.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $10 + $15 for cost of ingredients       Total Cost - $25                       
Bookings Required – Limited spaces available
This month learn how to make Freezer Fillers such as garlic bread and fried rice.  Plus you get to take home what you cook!  All ingredients and equipment will be supplied. If anybody is interested in an evening workshop please let us know as we will add more workshops if there is enough interest.  These workshops are for those wanting to learn how to cook or to get new ideas. 

Reupholstering Dining Room Chairs
Date: Saturday 22 June
Time: 9.30-11.30am  
Cost: $10.                                Bookings Required.  
Learn the basics of how to reupholster chairs.  This is a hands-on workshop and you will be putting the skills you learn into practise.  All equipment and materials supplied.

Make a booking on the Contact and Booking Form.

For a printable version of the program please download the program here - Simple Living Toowoomba June Program

May 2013 Program

Craft, Coffee and a Chat
Date: First Wednesday of the month
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: Nil 
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No Bookings Required
Bring along any craft project that you are working on and a plate of supper to share.

Simple Living Morning Tea
Date: Saturday 11 May
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.                                Basil pesto demonstration included!
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap. For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or potholders.

Cooking From Scratch Workshop
Date: Saturday 18 May
Time: 9.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $10 + $10 for cost of ingredients        Total Cost - $20                      
Bookings Required – Limited spaces available
This month learn how to make a Curry Base which can be use to make curried sausages, prawns, vegetables, pasta, mince, chops and tofu and Potato Bake 2 Ways.  Plus you get to take home what you cook! 
All ingredients and equipment will be supplied. If anybody is interested in an evening workshop please let us know as we will add more workshops if there is enough interest.

Mozzarella Cheese and Sour Dough Bread
Date: Saturday 25 May
Time: 9.30-11.30am   
Cost: $10.                                Bookings Required.  
Discover how to make a basic mozzarella cheese in the microwave. Learn to make a sour dough starter and view examples of the different steps in the process.  Sample a finished sour dough loaf and try the fresh mozzarella with it.  Delicious!

Make a booking on the Contact and Booking Form.

For a printable version of the program please download the program here - Simple Living Toowoomba May Program

April 2013 Program

Craft, Coffee and a Chat
Date: First Wednesday of the month
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: Nil
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No Bookings Required
Bring along any craft project that you are working on and a plate of supper to share.

Simple Living Morning Tea
Date: Saturday 13 April
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.                                Lemon Butter making demonstration included!
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap. For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or potholders.

Cooking From Scratch Workshop
Date: Saturday 20 April          
Time: 9.00am-1.00pm 
Cost: $10 + $10 for cost of ingredients        Total Cos                       
Bookings Required – Limited spaces available
This month learn how to make Potato-Topped Pie and Apple Crumble Cake. Plus you get to take home what you cook!  
If anybody is interested in attending a Cooking from Scratch Workshop in the evening during the week please let us know as we will add more workshops if there is enough interest. 

All ingredients and equipment will be supplied for the workshop.
 
Forum: How To Save Money On Your Grocery Bill
Date: Saturday 27 April
Time: 9.30-11.00am   
Cost: $10.                               
Bookings Required.  
Everybody would love to save money on their grocery bill.  Come along and learn some great techniques including menu planning, online grocery shopping, stockpiling and many more. Also share your ideas on how you save money.  

Make a booking on the Contact and Booking Form.

For a printable version of the program please download the program here - Simple Living Toowoomba April Program.
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February 2013 Program

Simple Living Morning Tea
Date: Saturday 9 February
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.        Baking scones and butter churning demonstration included!
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap. For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or potholders.  
 
Rag Rug Workshop     Back by popular demand!
Date: Saturday 9 February
Time: 1.00-4.00pm 
Cost: $10.  
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
Bookings Required
This rag rug, also known as a toothbrush rug requires no sewing to complete.  
Requirements: Strips of fabric approximately 3cm wide. The strips can be torn or cut and it is best to do it with the grain (parallel to the selvedge) rather than across the grain as there is less fraying but it really isn't a problem either way.  A great source of material is sheets and doona covers from the second hand shop.  It is hard to give an exact amount required but approx 8 metres x 1.2 metres or about 2 single sheets worth.  Just bring a selection of different fabric that you want to use for your rug to start with on the day.  You can always cut more later. There will be some strips available on the day if you are unsure of how to cut the fabric or you run out.
Rag Rug Tool.  The tool I used to make my rug was an elastic threader (see picture below) which you can get from Spotlight or Lincraft.  A large safety pin used for nappies would also be suitable.  
Soap Making and Homemade Laundry Liquid Demonstration 
Date: Saturday 23 Feb
Time: 9.00-12.00noon
Cost: $10.  
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
Bookings Required
Requirements:  Please bring along a 1L container so that you can take some homemade laundry liquid home.  You will also get to take home a piece of soap to try out!
A suggestion from Margaret who is running the workshop: Just in case you want to get a batch going at home sometime soon after the workshop save 5 of the 2 litre milk bottles, and clean them well, including both sides of the little disc under the lid (so thats why you can't get rid of the sour milk
smell...!)

Craft, Coffee and a Chat

Date: First Wednesday of the month
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: Nil  
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No Bookings Required
Bring along any craft project that you are working on and a plate of supper to share.

Make a booking on the Contact and Booking Form.

For a printable version of the program please download the program here - Simple Living Toowoomba February Program

March 2013 Program

Simple Living Morning Tea and Fig Jam Making Demonstration
Date: Saturday 9 March
Time: 9.30-11.00am
Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No bookings required.       
Share your stories, ask advice, bring along a plate of homecooked goodies for morning tea and join in a handmade and homegrown swap. For the swap bring along up to five things that you have made by hand or grown at home eg. jars of pickles, bunches of herbs, pincushions or potholders.

Learn to Crochet
Date: Thursday 7 & 14 March   Note date change!     
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: $10.                                           
Bookings Required
Requirements: Size 4 Crochet Hook, a ball of 8 ply wool.


Composting and No-Dig Garden Workshop 
Date: Saturday 23 March
Time: 10.00am – 3pm 
Cost: $10.        $5 Pensioners.      $15 for two members of the one family
Where: Kelly’s Place – 745 Murphy’s Creek Road.
Bookings Required.  
This will be a hands-on workshop where we will be actually creating a compost heap, looking at a compost heap that is too dry or too wet and learning how to fix it and creating a no-dig garden.  As well we will get a tour of Kelly's wonderful place, full of examples of sustainable gardening.
Requirements:
* Plate of lunch to share
* Bottle of water
* Hat
* Gardening gloves
* Closed in Shoes
Craft, Coffee and a Chat
Date: 7 March  Note date change to Thursday - just for this month
Time: 7.30-9.00pm
Cost: Nil 
Where: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, cnr Glenvale Rd and Karrool St
No Bookings Required
Bring along any craft project that you are working on and a plate of supper to share.

Make a booking on the Contact and Booking Form.

For a printable version of the program please download the program here - Simple Living Toowoomba March Program