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The schedule of events can be downloaded here

AABRFest, the Australian Association of Bush Regenerators winter gathering!

This event is a gathering for bush regenerators and all those interested in ecological restoration to learn and connect with one another. An opportunity to connect with the wider bush regeneration community, forge new connections and rekindle old friendships. Bring your family for a rejuvenating experience amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Topi Topi, the traditional lands of the Worimi People.

Established in 1986, AABR has played a vital role in promoting high-quality ecological restoration across Australia. AABRFest reflects these commitments to advancing the industry by offering an exciting array of activities, engaging presentations and immersive workshops.

• Be captivated by the wisdom and knowledge of the AABR Board and members as they share their insights in presentations.
• Dive into a eucalyptus ID workshop
• Witness a small-scale controlled ecological burn.
• Gain hands on experience with motorised spray units, and water pumps.
• Learn how to operate a tractor with a 4-in-1 bucket.
• Sit around a campfire with the founders of AABR and engage in fascinating and inspiring conversation.
• Whilst not engaging with activities, prepare to be captivated by the natural wonders that AABRFest is hosted on. Spread across 160 acres of permanent conservation agreement, this is a haven for nature-lovers.
• Camp amidst the breath taking views of Topi Topi and wake up to the sounds of the diverse birdlife.
• Enjoy the various walks available on the property to the historic Wootton Tram line, or venture into serene forest trails where magnificent cabbage trees, tallowoods or mighty flooded gums await.
• Bring your binoculars to explore the paddocks, tall forests, gardens and rainforest surrounds for bird life, wildlife and an array of flora.
• Explore the cattle property transitioning into sustainable practices, meet the friendly cows and discover how ecological restoration can inform agriculture processes.

Tickets – 200 lucky bush regenerators

MEMBERS $10

NON MEMBERS $20

STUDENTS $10

CHILDREN UNDER 12 ARE FREE

Book your spot… grab a ticket

The Program offerings

The schedule of events can be downloaded here

For the Talkers and Walkers

Welcome and a bit about AABR by Peter Dixon (President). Gather at the shed for a warm welcome to AABRFest. Join us as we kick off Saturday activities with an entertaining presentation by AABR President, Peter Dixon. Valuable insights will be shared on the  importance of AABR within the bush regeneration and ecological restoration industry. (Saturday 10 -11am)

AABR Facilitated Discussion. Recognising the evolving nature of the bush regeneration and ecological restoration industry, it is vital for voices from the industry and community to be heard in order to guide it on the right trajectory. Engage in the valuable act of listening without prejudice and join the facilitated discussion, utilising the World Cafe Method, to dive into critical topics surrounding AABR and the business of bush regeneration. Hosted by AABR Board Members, this insightful opportunity will allow for the exchange of ideas and ensures your voice is heard and fosters the culture of active listening within the community.(Saturday 11am-12pm)

Combined Grazing & Conservation Property Management Walk & Talk. Join Property Owners Scott and Mandy on an immersive walk & talk on their beautiful property. Discover the union of sustainable farming practices and conservation land agreements as you are guided through the paddocks. You’ll gain valuable insights into the seamless integration of sustainable farming techniques and the preservation of precious ecosystems. Delve into their wealth of knowledge as they share practical strategies and innovative techniques that promote biodiversity, soil health and overall ecosystem resilience. Discover the intricacies of conservation land agreements and witness how they can coexist harmoniously with sustainable farming and gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of ecological restoration and how these practices can contribute to a sustainable and vibrant future for farming practices. (Friday 2-3:30pm)

Tramline Walk & Talk and “Bush Tea” Collection. Surround yourself in 4km of enchanting coastal hinterland wet sclerophyll forest on a captivating walk & talk. The easy grade walk will lead to remnants of old Mayers Point tramlines, historically used for logging practices from 1890-1944. As you walk in the footsteps of the past, you’ll witness the remarkable resilience of these once-exploited lands, transformed into thriving habitats that support a variety of endangered species protected under conservation land agreements. Venture through the lush landscapes of wet sclerophyll forest and rainforest creek lines that are home to dingoes, pademelons, koalas, gliders and other unique wildlife. Marvel at the towering trees, respect the endangered species, and breathe in the scent of the forest as you make your way along the well-established trail. Throughout this walking paced journey, knowledgeable guides will share insights into the wonders of the area and show where the past and present unite in a celebration of natural resilience. Be inspired by the forest and gain a deeper appreciation of the importance of conservation. (Friday 2-3:30pm, Sunday 1-3pm)

Communal Dinner. Come to the shed area with an appetite for delicious food and meaningful conversation. Bring your dinner and share a meal with a new friend, old friend or family. A Mexican Cantina food truck will be available to treat yourself to authentic flavours of Mexican cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients and bold spices. Enjoy your meal by the fire and embrace the sense of community as you engage in conversations and share stories of bush regeneration endeavours. (Friday, Saturday 5-7pm)

Mechanically minded

Learn to Operate a Quickspray. Herbicides can be a valuable tool for controlling weeds. Learn how to operate a motorised herbicide sprayer for quick dispatch weed control. You can have a go yourself, only water will be used in this hands-on demonstration. (Sunday 10-10:30am)

Learn to operate a tractor. Learn how to operate a tractor and identify the safety factors around using heavy machinery. (Friday 1-2pm)

Skills and thrills

Eucalyptus ID Workshop. Ignite your curiosity and expand your botanical knowledge in this plant ID workshop. The Eucalyptus genus is iconic and species can be complicated to identify correctly. Join plant ID expert, Paul Gadsby, for an informative workshop on mastering the basics of eucalypt identification. Explore the unique characteristics and key features that distinguish different eucalypt species and gain practical tips and tricks in identification. Learn and discover the fascinating intricacies of eucalypts and their importance in supporting ecosystems. Bring a notepad, pen and a hand lens may come in handy. (Saturday 12-2pm, Sunday 10:30-12:30)

Bush Regeneration Practice Talks. Join the presentations on bush regeneration practice techniques. Short and informative presentations will be on offer to learn about the evolving science behind the practice. Participate in the open forum to share your skills or ask questions. (Sunday 8:30-9:30am)

Ecological Burn Discussion & Learning Display. Engross yourself in the world of fire as you witness a small-scale ecological burn in the mesmerising wet sclerophyll forest. Prepare to expand your knowledge as you learn about the essential practices of ecological burning and become an active participant in the discussion surrounding the use of fire as land management tool. This small burn demonstration will allow you to explore the techniques employed in the preparation for the burn and provide valuable insights into the methodologies used for conducting ecological burns. This unique opportunity allows you to be part of an ecological burn, so please come dressed appropriately with long sleeves, long pants, enclosed footwear, glasses and hats. (Saturday 2-3:30pm)

Bush Regen Trivia. Gather your team of 6 and prepare for an evening filled with friendly competition and intellectual stimulation. Engage in a trivia experience that puts your bush regen expertise to the test, with questions focused on AABR, the history of bush regeneration, the art of ecological restoration and more. Sign up your formidable team on the chalkboard at the Info section in the Shed prior to the start of Trivia. (Friday 7-8:30)

A bit of Chill

Live Bands. Slip into Saturday evening entertainment with live musical sessions by Motel Myall and many more. (Saturday 7-11pm)

Open Mic & Bush Regeneration Song Contest

A chance to share some pre-rehearsed (or improvised) songs with the festival-goers and be a part of The Bush Regeneration Song Contest (your own cover of a famous song with regeneration lyrics). Alternatively share your original compositions and let your creativity shine. A basic music set-up is provided including a drum kit, bass amp + bass guitar, guitar amp and electric guitar and a PA for vocals. Any personal music gear is welcome. (Friday 8-10:30pm)

Fire & Flow Jam. Be amazed and mesmerised by a fire dancing performance. You will be warmed and enchanted by the Dread Dragon as she flows seamlessly with a fire dragon staff. Feel the warmth of the flames and embrace the spirit, bring your own props to join in a flow jam. LED and Fire props welcome. (Saturday 7-9pm)

Family Fun. During the day get the kids involved and unleash your inner child, play on a slackline, zipline, swings and with other fun day props such as hulla hoop, ribbons and silk fans. Bring nature inside by creating some ephemeral art to decorate the common spaces.

Yoga. Welcome in the new day with a gentle mobilisation, flexibility and breathe practice with Jenni. Be guided into relaxation while the native birdlife and breeze provide the perfect soundtrack. Bring your own mat or towel, suitable for most people. (Saturday, Sunday 7:30-8:30am)

Walking Meditation. Take some slow steps on a walking meditation with Suzanne. Learn how to make each step connect with the earth, and in the process relax and be present in the moment, immersed in the colours, sounds and textures of the forest. (Sunday 7:30-8:30am)

Open Activities. 

AABRFest is all about community connection, encouraging the formation of new relationships and reigniting old ones whilst providing a platform for sharing stories, connecting with industry pioneers and engaging with the younger generation, learning how to shape the industry’s future. A range of open activities are available to participate in at your own pace.

Rocky Creek Walk. Wander down the gentle descent through the paddock to an ephemeral creek, adorned with lush rainforest species and a towering canopy of flooded gums. Take in the beauty as you explore the headwaters of the Coolongolook River. As you rock hop along the riparian zone, learn about the geology, a few edible native plants and useful weaving material.

Art Space. Bring your art supplies, or use communal supplied charcoal and paper, to try your hand at botanical drawing and test your plant & flower anatomy in the process. Try techniques, like Continuous Line Drawing to build your confidence in creating the right lines and contours for a drawing.

Kids Bush Craft. Create a whimsical fairy garland with your little person using organic materials foraged from the forest or try your hand at basket weaving using Bangalow Palm Fronds. Partake in the playfulness to create an ephemeral mandala using found objects and natural materials. This is a great way for those that are daunted by the creative process to share and connect.

AABR Lounge. Unwind in the AABR Lounge and soak up the rich visual history of AABR. Relax, recharge and engage in conversation with AABR Board members to explore the possibilities of becoming an accredited bush regeneration practitioner or discover the rewarding path of becoming an accreditation assessor.

Get together. Gather around a campfire with old and new friends and share stories and create lasting memories. Sharing a meal is a time-honoured process for sharing information. Gather around a table to create some lasting connections. Help yourself to the coffee and bush tea facilities during the day.

Take Time out. Find a perfect spot for a cosy picnic in the rolling paddocks. Take in the vistas and spot the diverse birdlife and hopping wildlife as you share laughter, good food and simple pleasures whilst unwinding in the tranquillity of Topi Topi.

Accommodation

There will be camping options available at the property

If camping is not your preference, the area offers various lodging options including the Wootton Guest House and Airbnbs.

Property Facilities

• Open kitchen and BBQ Area
• Spa and Swimming Pool
• Tank Water: We kindly request mindful consumption and for attendees to bring own water where possible
• Compost toilets

Getting there

The property is accessible via well-maintained all-weather gravel roads.

• 1 hour 20 minutes drive north of Newcastle Airport
• 1 hour 50 minutes drive south of Port Macquarie

AABRFest is a community-run event. If you would like to contribute by offering a workshop, assisting with setup or pack down, or participating in event operations, please reach out to Sally at  whatson@aabr.org.au

Join the community at AABRFest to celebrate the achievements and ongoing efforts of AABR and contribute to the future.

NOTE: Do not follow Google maps as it will direct you to Hubbards Rd South which does NOT connect to Hubbards Rd North. Access to Hubbards Rd North is via Wattley Hill Rd