Living Waters Permaculture Foundation was founded in 1985. In 1992 operations were transferred from Perth to Denmark onto a 60 acre property overlooking the Wilson Inlet and the Southern Ocean. Two thirds of the block is diverse forest with Tingle, Karri, Marri, Jarrah and their associated flora and fauna. This is now being left to its own devices, but some sustainable harvesting will be possible.

The remaining land was pasture to the south and Watsonia on the north slope. Native grasses and wildflowers are abundant and reclaiming old pasture - the start of the return back to forest. Succession of plants is much in evidence. We have harvested only 9 trees for building work on the property, but have planted 4000 native plants.

In 1995 we became an incorporated, non-profit organisation. The foundation’s major objectives over the last fourteen years has been to educate and demonstrate that it is possible to introduce sustainable Permaculture design into everyday (and not so everyday) lifestyles. This has achieved great success through our many courses throughout the southwest of the state, and by integrating many diverse and innovative farming and alternative technology practices, which serve as direct examples of our aims and methods.

Over 2000 people have been awarded Permaculture Design Certificates in Western Australia, many of which are a result of the foundation’s direct participation. Many students are now finding employment through the global Permaculture network, others enjoy the ability to design, implement and maintain their own properties in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.

The intention is to create an ecovillage of some fourteen dwellings, but this is a process that will evolve gradually; needs and circumstances will shape the course of events.

Many, many people pass through Living Waters, on holiday, to work or Wwoof, as members, or to take part in a course or tour. It is ultimately shaped by the energies of all these people who contribute so much. We hope they leave with inspiration and satisfaction that it is not only possible, but practical, a lot of fun, and hugely beneficial all round, to tread much lighter on this Earth.

Living Waters Permaculture Foundation,
RMB 1495 Denmark 6333 - Western Australia,  
Tel. +61 8 9848 2171