Newsletter - September 2010

The printed version of this newsletter is also available as a pdf file (Click the image - 4.5mb download).

Welcome to our new look newsletter! It's been a year and a half since WWOOF Ireland was re-formed and we now have over 300 hosts from all over Ireland, and more than 2070 WWOOFers from 36 different countries all working towards a greener, more sustainable future! The newsletter is an opportunity to see what has been achieved and reflect on where we go from here.

Here the WWOOF Ireland team reveal a few details about themselves and Annie explains how the whole thing started – rather by chance, it seems! Hosts from around the country describe their experiences – it's always fascinating to hear about the many different projects people are involved with – and Claudia Green gives an insight into her very personal WWOOFing journey. One issue that has caused a few problems is immigration. Tim Mackie describes his traumatic first encounter with Irish immigration but acknowledges that he arrived during a transition time. Annie gives the current situation which is much more optimistic. There are also reports on recent conferences, in particular the growing popularity of Grow It Yourself (GIY) Ireland. Reviews of recently published books of special relevence to Irish gardeners should prove interesting reading. Annie sums up by looking at the way forward for WWOOF Ireland. One idea that needs to be considered is that of Host Representatives - regional hosts who are appointed to be ports of call should there be difficulties. Although the WWOOF Ireland team are always available for help and advice, sometimes you need someone who is available locally. Annie describes possible options and looks forward to opening up discussion.

This is very much an introductory newsletter and we welcome ideas, thoughts and contributions concerning future editions. Happy WWOOFing! Amanda Clarke, editor