ABOUT ME

Me inspecting a tree seedling before planting.

The start of a windbreak. Plastic tree guards are essential for the survival of the young trees.

I was born on the island of Sicily in the shadow of the active volcano Mount Etna. This sometimes angry volcano is capable of much destruction, but the ashes released have resulted in the formation of a fertile region for farming.

Migrating To Australia

My parents worked on orchards and vineyards near this mountain; on migrating to Australia they naturally found employment in this same industry, eventually purchasing their own property in South Australia.

Farming And Learning

I completed tertiary studies in Agriculture and Horticulture and also graduated to teach in these subject areas. Teaching has been my main occupation, however, I had a period when I owned and operated a small retail plant nursery.

Now approaching retirement as a teacher, it has been a natural progression to purchase and develop a hobby farm.

My Hobby Farm

It is located on the outskirts of Melbourne 50 km from the city center. This 5 acre plot has been my acquisition in August 2006 and hopefully it will develop into something I one day will be proud to own. It is not my intention to create a display garden, but a place where plants and the resident fauna can reside in harmony.

The task ahead does present many challenges and progress will be slow, but now I am approaching a time in life where there is no longer a great hurry to get things done.