SA Permaculture Convergence

On November 9th and 10th, Permaculture SA hosted its annual Permaculture Convergence. This gathering is an event of sharing, learning and inspiring. It's aim is to build a community around sustainable living and "sharing climate-positive skills for a better future". Amongst the workshops and speakers were subjects including edible weeds and foraging, food forests, local farming and urban agriculture, passive solar buildings, self sufficiency, First Nations knowledges and climate change policy and advocacy.

It was our privilege to be allowed to present a workshop in black soldier fly farming and insect bioconversion. Designed to be a practical 'show-and-tell' session, the participants were encouraged to ask as many questions as needed. Chris and Jeannine explained black soldier fly biology and distribution in Australia (yes, it's native to Australia!!), the life cycle of the black soldier fly (it's fast!!) and why black soldier fly farming is awesome! A breakdown of the basic equipment required for backyard black soldier fly farming was also covered with an encouragement to "DIY" and upcycle what people had at hand to create grow out tubs and fly cages. Questions ranged from 'what can and can't the larvae eat', to 'what can I use the outputs for?' The audience were super engaged and enthusiastic with many taking larvae home to trial in their home compost heaps.

At Mobius Farms, education and capacity building are foundational values and a big part of the "why" of what we do. We love engaging with the public and educating them about the benefits of insect bioconversion. We hope to plant the seed and inspire more people to become insect farmers and adopters of insect-derived products that are good for pets, people and the planet. If you have an interest in setting up a black soldier fly farm at home, get in touch with us via our website.