For centuries, country people have swapped ideas with neighbours near and far.

There is a spirit of connectness in rural places, which allows for this.  Here is

an example from America, where the Jondle Family decide to take a radical,

yet very rational life change from commerce to community, and try their

hands at farming in their own way.  The Abundant Life Farm is an interesting

example of ideas put into action, and makes good food for thought. 

This film is another from the brilliant CookingUpAStory,

produced by Rebecca Gerendasy.

(copyright Monika Roleff 2008.)

(copyright CookingUpAStory, 2008.)

An age old sight in the Australian countryside in current days

proves the sustainable link between man and animal, that of

the relationship farmers have had for centuries with sheep.

These grazing animals birth their young in mid winter and

these lambs can be seen in fields in plentitude.  The pastures

of Winter are lush and green, providing sustenance for the

new life they support.  Cypress and native Gum trees have been used

as windbreaks for just as long, and the animals use these for

shade and shelter.  (The link on Gums has some amazing vintage

viewing from 1949 in black and white from the Shell Australia Archive.

It is well worth viewing these three, very short, films.)

It is often said Australia was formed on the

“sheep’s back”, and the wool from sheep of many breeds is exported

worldwide, to this day.

(copyright Monika Roleff 2008.)

The bright glow of rich Hawthorn berries is found in the Autumn and Winter

countryside of Australia, especially along rural roadsides.  The colour is

a welcome sight especially in Winter, when everything is resting and seems

bare.  These nutritious berries carry a healthy dose of vitamins and a good

folklore history in European places.  Rosellas and other birds love them,

and can be seen feasting on them quietly for hours in the Wintry light.

Another species of plant not native to Australia, but which has

adapted to the climate, provided food for local wildlife, and

become part of the country scenery.

(copyright Monika Roleff 2008.)

Pomegranates are not native to the Australian countryside,

but they have gladly made their homes there.  These beautiful

flowers and fruits are used in many recipes and have great

significance in folklore the world over.  It’s nice they have

seen fit to adapt and make these areas bright with colour

in late Summer for the flowers, and Autumn for their

bittersweet fruits.

(copyright Monika Roleff 2008.)