The Keyline system of farming began with P.A. Yeomans' seminal text "Water for every farm", first published in 1954. Since that time, Keyline concepts have been consistently referred to, used and incorporated into all the major frameworks for sustainable farming and land management techniques, both in Australia and across the globe. The results of using Keyline concepts are far-reaching and un-disputed. Come and learn how to store water in the landscape using simple, practical methods, grounded in intelligent theory and design.

In todays changing climate and landscape, we need effective solutions for land and water management. Solutions that benefit both the landholder and the environment, and result in both profit and improved soil fertility. Keyline concepts were conceived and founded in the Australian landscape to build soil, hold water and improve the fertility and durability of the land. Look after the land, and the land will look after you.

Who is this course for?

The Keyline Design Course is an intensive blend of technical & practical sessions targeted at would-be carbon farmers, professional land managers, consultants, permaculture designers, earthmovers, farmers and anyone with a strong interest in sustainable land management and soil creation. This 3-day on-site course will fully outline all of the principles and techniques involved with the modern application of Keyline Design. We will have the use of Keyline's central tool, the multi-award winning, fully optioned, Yeomans' Keyline Plow for demonstration at this course.

"The object of Agriculture is to feed and clothe people. Two things will guarantee this happens with maximum efficiency. Firstly, farming must be prosperous and secondly, soil fertility must constantly improve" - P.A.Yeomans

Topics covered include: Keyline™ Design Carbon sequestration Cost effective soil creation Water harvesting & reticulation Designing water into a property Dam placement Pasture improvement Holistic Management™                                and much more......

Darren Doherty has had extensive experience across the planet in Permaculture project design, development & management, with a focus on retrofitting broadacre agricultural systems, and has been acclaimed as a pioneer in this important & often overlooked field. He is a registered teacher of The Permaculture Institute, a qualified Whole Farm Planner (University of Melbourne), an Approved Keyline Designer, & Accredited Permaculture Training (APT) Trainer.

Location & Travel

The course will be held on our demonstration site, south of Mudgee NSW. an easy 4 hour drive from the Sydney CBD or 40 minutes from Mudgee Airport (Airlink or Regional Express ).

      Milkwood Farm
      1466 Campbells Creek Rd
      Carcalgong via Mudgee NSW 2850

Please visit our map for the exact location.

Countrylink train services are available to nearby Ilford. Pickups can be provided for a small fee. Please contact us to arrange a pick up.

Bookings

Click here to book your place

Book your place now via our booking form or for more information contact Kirsten on 02 6373 7763.

To ensure that all participants get the most from this course positions are limited, please book early to ensure your place.

Accommodation 

Convenient accommodation can be booked at Bushlands Holiday Park, which is situated at Windeyer, 15 minutes from our site. Options include cabins, powered and unpowered camp sites. We have organised a special rate for participants willing to share a cabin, contact Ossie or Romey on 02 6373 8252 and mention the 'Keyline' deal for this special rate.

Other accomodation options in the area include; 

• Protea Farm Cottages - 02 6373 3300
• Thistle Hill Cottage - 02 6373 3546
• Shady Creek Rustic Cabin - 0438 733 317
• Kirima Cottages - 02 6372 0327.

A wide range of accommodation is available throughout the Mudgee area, through Mudgee Tourism

About Milkwood Permaculture: We are a Permaculture Demonstration Site near Mudgee in Central Western NSW. We provide world-class courses and workshops in a wide range of sustainable farming practices - all within a relaxed, professional and positive hands-on environment. Have a look at some photos from our previous courses here.

For those attending both the KDC and the PDC which follows

If you are planning to attend both the Keyline Design course and the Permaculture Design Certificate course (taught by Darren Doherty, starting 3 days after the Keyline course), there is an additional accommodation option. For a small additional fee of $30, you can camp on-site at Milkwood during the Keyline Course. Our camping area is beside Campbells Creek and has a bunch of shady campsites, with basic facilities. This accommodation option includes breakfast and dinner on each day during the course, as well as the night before and the morning following.

Those wishing to stay at Milkwood during the 3 days between the KDC and the PDC are welcome to do so in exchange for 3-4 hours work a day. Duties may include strawbale building, planting, harvesting and daily farm chores. Come and participate at a Permaculture Demonstration Site in the making! To take up this accommodation option, contact us once you have booked your course.