A U T U M N N E W S L E T T E R

Director’s Editorial “With Young People as our purpose and Community as our strength”

It is an exciting time to be part of Mittagundi. Young people continue to hike down the faithful track 107 and up the drive way to a small place where people are the most important thing. In our 31st year I doubt this essence of purpose, challenge and community has changed much over the years. Young people continue to thrive and learn through being a part of Challenging times, simplicity, being part of something greater and a fair bit of purposeful work.  

There is such meaning that comes from a place that revolves around a heart of young people.  

Mittagundi truly hums when young people come and their energy turns the place alive. There are many places open now on our classic 10 day courses for you, the young person reading this, or the young

person you know. Take this opportunity and adventure that lies in this small place in the Glen Valley. 

There is a certain integrity and special quality that comes from a small organisation, that in all aspects lives the same challenges, hard work and honest purpose as their young people experience. Our hardworking, inspiring team of six have come from so many different places and also grow in the challenges as we settle into life at Mittagundi and the busy rhythm that begins when the sun pours over The Knocker each morning and lights up the mist. 

There are still opportunities for skilled and experienced outdoor leaders to be part of something heartfelt and real at Mittagundi this year. Life is rich, simple, a close knit community and tough at times but uncomparable to any other work

place or home. It is a rare chance to thrive and develop so much professionally and personally.  

We continue to thrive from the support of our community and feel constantly awed by the generosity and support given by so many to continue our work with young people.  

We really welcome and encourage your involvement this year and well into the future. Come back to Mittagundi or help us from afar. Every contribution continues to be so important to our everyday. For while young people are our true purpose, community is our real strength. 

Jac Semmler & the Mittagundi Team

Welcome to the first bit of news from the Glen valley for 2010. Mittagundi

Course dates

•Boys 372 - 16th to 25th April •Girls 373 - 30th April to 9th May •Boys 374 - 14th to 23th May•Boys 375 - 19th to 28th September•Girls 376 - 8th to 17th October•Boys 377 - 22nd to 31st October •Girls 378 - 5th to 14th November•Girls 379 - 29th December to 7th January 2011

Follow up courses

•Winter Course 29th June to 3rd July•Enterprise 21st to 25th of November•Wood Chop 12th to 17th of December

If you have been on the 10 Day Program and are raring for more come back any of these courses.

CALENDAR 2010

Programs filling fast, see www.mittagundi.org.a

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for more info & to register your place.

Community Events

•The Hop! 26th June•Pioneer Skills and Bush Dance 14th to 16th of January 2011 •Garden Party 27th of September to 1st October

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Goodbye & thanks Another era is over at Mittagundi as the old directors have handed on to the new. We would like to say a huge thankyou to Jack and Faith for steering the Mittagundi ship to amazing places over the last three years. We wish them all the best together in Eldorado.Thanks Jack & Faith!

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Staff profiles meet our friendly staff for 2010

Jac SemmlerA cheerful laugh rings out into the morning air of the Glen Valley. Curious, you turn and spy a flash of orange streaking down the hill towards you. What strange and wonderful creature calls this place home? Well folks, the mystery has been solved; we’re pleased as peaches to introduce you to Mittagundi’s newest director, Ms Jac Semmler!From beginning her journey at Mittagundi as a young person ten years ago, to taking up the role of Director this year, Jac embodies the purpose and spirit of the place in a direct and profound way. Her experience as a young person moved her to study Outdoor Education, which she complimented with a degree in Primary Education. She comes fresh from a management position at Wollangarra, our fellow outdoor ed. organization, where she was facilitating young people in their own projects caring for Victoria’s High Country.It is clear her experiences in the last ten years have given her a passion and a desire to provide equally authentic and meaningful experiences for young people and her professionalism, enthusiasm and dedication to meet this goal are inspiring.

Jac’s enthusiasm for all things Mittagundi is utterly infectious! She has a deep knowledge of the people and places that surround and support the organization and of its history and hopes; all things she happily shares with all.Jac has made people the focus of her time at Mittagundi – young people, staff, long-time supporters (and new), locals, and the wider community. Her vision reflects her personality; warm, genuine, curious and honest. She excels at communicating! And has a way of getting people on board and making challenges achievable and fun that is amazing to witness. She stresses the importance of self care and rigorously promotes the value of a day off to her team! Jac is a pleasure to work with and a wonder to witness; she’s just “Gold!”

Thomas GroundsThomas grew up in Moyhu in the King Valley, before moving to Melbourne where he went to high school, studied agricultural science at university and worked at the docks classing export goods. He has arrived at Mittagundi fresh from a six month trip overseas where he spent time in India and cycled through large parts of South East Asia. Thomas loves a good afternoon fishing in the rivers and creeks of ‘the Glen’ (and the team loves the fresh trout for dinner afterwards, yumyum!), a good coffee in the morning and is always up for adventure and discovery.He is a valued member of the team, bringing a great practical mind and pro-active attitude that gets the job done. With a lot of projects already on the go he’s looking forward to learning about the local history and has a keen ear for a few good stories from the Glen Valley locals.

Carol (Caz) Mudford

C is for Cheerful with a welcoming smileA is for Awesome; need I say more?R is for Rollicking fun and laughterO is for Orange, her favourite colourL is for Lovely and kind-hearted

Caz originated from a small country town in central west NSW and has moved around a lot whilst growing up, now calling north east Victoria her home. She first came to Mittagundi as a young person a few years ago, and has many fond memories of her time here. She is passionate about sharing more of those experiences with yet more groups of young people, and has alot to offer them, such as her enthusiasm for living a varied and interesting life. Caz was living in Broome, WA, for the last twelve months, and came to Mittagundi via a two month motorcycling trip through Vietnam.

Daniel O’Brian Daniel originally hails from the far green fields of Ireland and has found his way to Mittagundi along the woof-ing and permaculture path. His green thumbs have teamed up with Lizzy to tend the garden this year, and the pair have quickly developed a strong working relationship, as is shown in their balanced approach to weed and bug control; Lady Lizzy attempts a gentle approach, cajoling the offending critters until the arrival of Danger Daniel stomping and barging his way through the fields frightens the foes away.But don’t be afraid of this fella, he’s a gentle soul with a heart of gold, and brings to our team a wonderful artistic flair and creative persona that is enthusiastic about all the joys and challenges of a Mittagundi lifestyle.Whilst growing up in Frankston, Vic, and traveling back and forth to Ireland, Daniel’s search for meaning and purpose has led him down a variety of avenues, studying the arts, sciences and education at university until finding himself elbow deep in what he calls the ‘life university’ of a veggie patch. There the seeds were sown for a continuing passion, the deepening of his knowledge of the wholesome principles of caring for the earth and caring for people.His light is shining brighter and brighter everyday at Mittagundi (not only due to his rigorous maintenance of our gas lanterns), and the

thoughtful passion he brings to the team is greatly cherished.

Cindy Chan

Cindy; she’s an absolute dynamo. As I am sitting here asking questions about her life before Mittagundi, she is running around packing the horse saddles at the same time. Besides her skills in multi tasking, Cindy is a great cook, and has a pretty sweet tooth which means great desserts. We all think she buys the bread from the bakery and passes them off as her own creations; they’re that good.Cindy also brings a great singing voice, particularly songs from the 80’s and dance moves to go with it. Her laugh can be heard from anywhere which creates a great atmosphere.Anyway, a bit of info on her life before Mittagundi: Cindy grew up in Narromine, in central NSW. She loved her dad’s garden and the river while growing up there. She left to go to University and landed in Canberra where she studied Science and did her honours in wildlife illustration. Cindy has followed up her studies with work as a public servant and volunteer work in the conservation field.Cindy was drawn to Mittagundi by a keenness to learn new skills, and her love of being around other people, and also the opportunity to challenge herself. She is a great part of the team, and we look forward to the year ahead with her.

Lizzy

I think Mittagundi was in grand lucky when the word nudged Lizzy about our opportunities for leaders in the Glen Valley. She has arrived in the Glen Valley from a background in Social Sciences, Permculture and Woofing on organic farms. Her solid character, passion for the simple, hard working life and interest in young people sets her in good stead for the year ahead. Perth born originally but now home in the South East State, Lizzy has a practicality with a love of all puns (some may say bad humour but very appreciated here) and interest in food systems and production she is right in her element and at home inMittagundi.

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By young people for young people :

The Alpine walkEach year the Alpine walk is a reminder of just how capable and inspiring young people are.

The alpine walkers have taken the opportunity to fundraise for Mittagundi courses. They are preparing for an ardourous 11 day hike through some of our most spectacular mountain places for the benefit of other young people.

This year Hugh Fuchsen, Natalie Brandmeier, Tim Collins, Jake Tudor and Lauren Raymont have all hit the ground running gathering funds. They all continue to be amazing young champions for Mittagundi in their communities.    

It is a special time when young people from three significant young people places meet. This year Wollangarra, Typo Station (Evolve at Typo) and Mittagundi are coming together to share an experience that in turn supports so many more young people in sharing in opportunities at our organisations. It is with great thanks that three inspiring leaders have taken the plunge to support the alpine walk. Ryan Todd (Mittagundi), Lisa Strain (Wollangarra) and Suzanne Cam (Evolve at Typo) continue to put so much work into the support of the team and smoothing logistics.  

Good luck Alpine walkers! We are all behind you! Jac 

The Bush Dance and Pioneer Skills The Pioneer Skills Weekend was kicked off on the Friday (15th January) by a big bush bash at the Glen Wills Community Hall.

Playing on the night was a band made up of Mittagundi associated talent, such as Brett (AKA “Bones”) and Dougie, the dance callers; Bill on Bass; Mary (AKA “Mez”) on flute Adrian also on Bass; Johno on drums; Albert on guitar; and Jack on fiddle.

Excellent fun and dancing was had by all with the band and crowd rocking it out to the wee hours of the next morning.

Food and drink was prepared and served by the wonderful people of F.O.M (Friends of Mittagundi).

Also of special note, to coincide with the start of the weekend four young fellas, Tim, Jim, Kim and Him (Hugh), decided to undertake an overnight hike and walk in to Mittagundi – an amazing accomplishment to achieve by any account.

On Saturday and Sunday great craftsman and showmanship was

displayed by the brilliant demonstrators as they expertly carved wood, spun wool, forged metal items, tossed bags of chaff and built bush furniture. The demonstrators were: Brian – pole lathe and furniture making; Lance – assisted Brian and the forge; Kevin – also assisted Brian to make furniture; Jack – forge and bush games; Graham (AKA “Fallsy”) – woodsman and bush games; and Marilla and Meg – wool craft and spinning.

Delicious and varied food offerings were provided by locals, F.O.M and the Mittagundi crews of 2009 and 2010, which included superb wood fired oven pizzas, mouthwatering cakes and a yummy snag or two.

All in all it was an awesome weekend that was well attended by a fantastic group of people.

A big thank you goes out to the greater Mittagundi Community, the demonstrators and countless supporters who volunteered their energy and time to making the weekend a great success.

Look forward to seeing you all at the next Pioneer Skills Weekend in 2011. SAVE THE DATE: 14-16 January

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You can sponsor the Alpine Walkers through the Mittagundi website

or by sending donations to ‘Mittagundi’ c/o Omeo Post Office, Omeo, 3898

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The Training Roadtrip 2010

Freshly qualified in wilderness first aid and buzzing after a session with Cath Bucolo on group work and meetings, spirits were running high as the 2010 Mittagundi staff began their road-trip training adventure. Not even the tail-end of a tropical storm pouring record rain as we pulled into our first stop – Wangaratta – could dampen them. We hid for cover by the shop fronts of main street with 2007-2009 directors Jack and Faith who gave advice, well wishes and directions to our first ‘port of call’, Neri and Hylke’s!

Greeted and welcomed into their grand old home we were treated to amazing home-made pizzas, salads and a bbq! It was a magical night of great chats, a surprise-in-Fitza’s shed (you’ll have to visit to believe it!) and falling asleep listening to the thunderstorm. To Neri, Hylke and family, thank you so much for your generosity and sharing your spirit of adventure!

We awoke refreshed and ready to roll

down in the troopy to Eildon for a happy reunion with the 2010 Wollangarra crew! Having shared the frights and sights of wilderness first aid training together, the in-jokes about soap notes were flying thick and fast as Mittagundies and Wollies arrived at OEG to begin our day on Swift Water Rescue with the marvelous Murray Tucker. By mid-morning our brains were full of diagrams on current vectors, ferry angles, strainers and eddy lines. Murray decided we were

ready to take the plunge out of text book world and into the water so we geared up and got rescue ready. We swam defensively through downstream V’s, aggressively over strainers, caught throw-ropes, hopped in and out of rafts and somehow remembered to breathe! It is hard to believe so much learning was packed into one day whilst having a blast and many thanks must go to Murray for an amazing day.

There were tears as crews from Mittagundi and Wollangarra parted company, but not without some mischief of the over-abundant vegetable kind! That night we were lucky enough to spend a fantastic meal in Chestnut with some of the staff from nearby Typo Station. After such a big day it wasn’t long before eyes were drooping and we headed back to our donated home for the next two days – Sandy and Christos’ in Whitfield. We awoke to the beautiful views of the King Valley and the company of Kat Gilson and Suz Cristison, our trainers in Communication and Group dynamics. Our suspicions about our group were soon confirmed as we found were we all caring ‘Labradors’. We consoled ourselves with chats, pats and cuppas. The next two days were challenging but rewarding as Kate and Suz walked us through skills like effective communication, conflict resolution and active listening. The focus was on deepening our awareness of ourselves and others so we can celebrate the joy and challenges of working together at Mittagundi. During the days and by the campfire we learnt a lot and many thanks must go to Kate and Suz for passing on their knowledge. To Sandy, Christos and Kate … thanks so much for having and hosting us.

We left with the map marked Cobram but not before another stop off in the King Valley – a cuppa at Rosemary’s. Thanks to Thomas’ mum for a great chat, great cuppa and honey fresh from the comb! Refreshed and relaxed we rolled onto Heather and Gif’s place amongst the orchards and dairies of northern Victoria. We were treated to a classic country welcome and a roaring barbie amongst the fruit trees in the front yard. After another long day on the road we were grateful to roll out the sleeping bags in the front room.

We were up bright and early the next morning and off to Shepparton for defensive driving training at D.E.C.A. on a scorcher of a day. After a few hours of road rules and theory it was onto the streets of Shepparton as the instructors took us through our paces and flashbacked us to L-plates days and driving lessons. Thankfully the only bruises were to our pride and we all made it back to the centre and learnt a lot to boot. There was plenty of opportunity to let off steam on the skid pan and give the ABS brakes on the test car a workout. Everyone passed with flying colours and left with renewed confidence that the riskiest thing we do with young people, driving vehicles, was now that much safer. Heather and Gif put us up for another night and there was a mighty spread including home-made cordial and salami round the table.

The next morning we made space in the trailer for a very special cargo – Cornish Orchard peaches! We were directed to the orchard by the lovely Steph, Heather and Gif’s daughter and made we our way into the forest of fruit. We picked to our hearts content and loaded up the trailer – ready to be made into bottled summer sunshine back home. A quick swim in the mighty Murray and we were back to the house, this time to say good bye. A massive thank you to Heather and Gif and all who hosted us for the week. The support we felt from people we have never met except by good luck through our time at Mittagundi was really overwhelming. A big thanks must go to Jac for organizing the trip, making it happen and supporting us through all the training.

As the troopy pulled into the Glen valley and the gates of Mittagundi, it felt good to be coming home… Can’t wait to see all the young people here for 2010!

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More Staff Training

As well as the road trip, staff training based at Mittagundi has been great learning and a real joy. It started with ‘changeover’ with the 2009 crew sharing their knowledge and tips they had gained over their past year. It was a great time to get to know one another and get a feel for the Mittagundi way of life.

Next up was 4WD training with Russel White from Gippsland TAFE. Great bloke with a great saying “if in doubt, go flat out!” The poor old troopies. The 5 days of training was just good fun, getting comfortable with the vehicles and getting out and exploring some of the fine scenery around Glen Valley.

Wilderness First Aid was an eventful 7 days. A course with a great mix of theory and practice, good for practical skills, tough on the nerves though. The group from Wollangarra was also in attendance which made it a great experience. We had 5 chefs preparing breakfast, lunch and dinner finishing off with a pretty legendary roast on the last night.

Thanks to Kasey, Reagan, Lisa, Sarah and Penny for a great job -you’re welcome back anytime!

Farm NewsMittagundi has been green, green, green this summer. .

The garden and orchard have had great harvests this season too with zucchinis coming out of our ears, an abundance of berries for jam, apples for the first time in a few

years, and a nice crop of chillies and tomatoes still on their way (to name just a few).

Indoors, the new pantry and kitchen are working an absolute treat and not to mention looking great. Plenty of room to cook up a storm as well as to store the freshly bottled peaches we picked in Cobram. Plenty of jobs still to get stuck into as well, it looks like fencing and drainage will be a big one this year.

As for the animals, the pigs and Scotty (the bull) are winding up their time here as they are now booked in for their date with our freezer...oink!

PPosition Available: Program Manager

We're looking of a skilled Outdoor Ed'er to join our team. This position is designed for a person with solid outdoor and group leading experience. The key responsibilities are to support the Director in all Program related duties and team management. It's a great opportunity to continue your professional development at Mittagundi would be invaluable to the right professional outdoor educator.

If you are interested in being involved or keen for more info call Tom Hay on 0417 345 181 or tom@mittagundi.org.au. More details are available on the website - www.mittagundi.org.au

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All things WinteryMittagundi is a very exciting place to be during Winter.

Winter HelpWe are looking for keen people for help during our very busy winter period. Our courses are 6, 7 and 9 days involving 3 day trips in the snow as well as time on the farm at Mittagundi. The focus of Mittagundi snow trips is a low-key intro to the bush covered in snow. The most important things are having fun and learning

There is an array of ways people can help at Mittagundi during winter. Some volunteer helpers will go out on ski trips, some may be helping out at the base around Mittagundi milking cows, baking bread, chopping fire wood and so on. 

We offer a chance to be involved in a hands on way, in a quality Outdoor Education program focusing on community, lifestyle and personal values. A great place to stay in the Mountains and a unique experience helping young people to learn and grow. 

No prior experience is necessary, just a spirit of adventure and an open mind. Our work can be tough, cold and long but heaps of fun too. The simple, pioneer lifestyle and a positive attitude are the most important parts about what makes Mittagundi so special.

See the website for more or call Jac on 03 5159 7238.

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WINTER FOLLOW UP REMINDER29th JUNE – 3rd JULY

The Winter Follow Up Course is filling fast!

If you’ve been on a Mittagundi course before here is a fantastic opportunity to spend 5 days up in the High Plains. Three days are spent skiing, based out of McNamaras Hut.

Great chance to meet the new team and connect with friends while sitting around the fire at the end of the day.

Visit www.mittagundi.org.au for more information or give us a call on 03 5159 7238. Be quick as the places are filling fast

HI Save a tree?Get this newsletter via email and save a tree or two. Simply email tom@mittagundi.org.au and let me know.

You can see the full newsletter online and in colour visit www.mittagundi.org.au

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Donations:Nth Eastern Trail Horse Riders ClubMoney 3Victorian Community FoundationDaniel KnihinizkijSimon F. PatonRod PatonCarol Ric HandsonVicki GillickWangaratta Lions Club

Scholarships:Peg and Robert OrrThe Eirene Lucas Foundation

Enterprise ‘09:Jack GilbertGraham FallsForest WhittenLucy WhittenTamsin GreenwoodRoly GreenwoodKaren

Woodchop ’09:Cath BuculoMezza Shaw

Pioneer Skills 2010:Bones, Dougie and the Bush BandAll The Skermers – for everything everywhere!

F.O.M.- BBQ and moreJack GilbertJimmy James FindlayGraham Fallsy FallsBrian BeasleyKevinLanie TuckerBrettMarilla and Lucy CooperTess; delicious slices and moreGary; breadJohn the ButcherMeg StewartIan Arby ArbuckleJane, Em and Ainsley; help on the merch stallAinsley Bennetts family; clothes and sneakers

Staff Training:Jack, Faith, Lucy, Declan, Shannon, Kat and Ryan for handover hints, help and awesomeness.Fiona ……… and Erin Flyn; Wilderness 1st Aid instructors.Russell White-4WD trainingMurray Tucker-Swift water rescue, risk management, council meeting and more!Kate Gilson and Suz Christison-Communications and teamworkDECA at Shepparton; Defensive DrivingCath Buculo; staff support and general greatnessDennis Bainger; help on courseGordy; help, renovations, tour of Sunnyside, BBQ, everything.Phil Rooks; chopping boards and apronsKate Gilson; bootsThe Christisons; clothesMrs. Bainger; hot water bottlesHerbie and Marise; legendary vanilla sliceTess and Graeme; lovely dinner and continuing hospitality

Matty Paton; welcoming drinks around the fireNeri, Hylke and Wytze; dinner and accommodationSandy and Christos; opening your beautiful house to usRosemary; cuppa and honeythe Crosthwaite’s; dinner, accommodation, peach picking help.Cornish Orchards; peachesGary and Jacqui; vehicle maintenanceBob Vincent; babysitting MGSarah Douglas; chocolateMez Shaw; cotton shirtsthe Wollies; good times and camaraderie during trainingBruce Crosthwaite; staff care package.FOM-walk in and cookupHelen Packer-horse training

Wish List Honey AA, AAA and D Batteries Mattock Handles Thermals

(wool or polypropylene, tops & bottoms) Old sneakers Gortex overpants Thick woolen mittens Mantle gaslight head

(for connection to gas bottles) Watering cans (metal if possible) Hay (up to 250 bales for winter) Leather saddle soap and oil Gumboots Hessian sacks More young people for great 9 day

courses

Thankyous Mittagundi is so grateful for all things large and small

THANKYOU

ALL VERY MUCH !

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MITTAGUNDI Autumn 2010

{THE HOP!}One date to mark in your calendar is the night of Saturday June 26,

where folk from all over come and gather together in Melbourne with the Mittagundi and Wollangarra crews for one big party.

(and no doubt a bit of barn dancin’ action too!)7pm, Collingwood Children’s Farm, Melbourne.

See www.mittagundi.org.au for all the details.

Mittagundi4385 Omeo HwyGlen Valley, Vic 3898