INTRODUCTION
Responding to the very positive feedback we received from participants attending the conference in 2004 and 2005, we decided to try to repeat the successes. Again we are inviting interesting speakers, many of whom are recognised leaders in their field. At the time of writing we have approached a number of organisations and companies in the hope of attracting sponsorship. If successful, we will be able to invite some well-known international speakers who we believe will add significantly to the learning experience offered. Watch this space!
AIM
To create an environment in which ecovillage designers and developers can have an inspirational exchange of experiences and ideas. To provide an opportunity for serious practitioners from around the world to share successes and challenges.
WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?
- Serious students of ecovillage design and/or development with a good background in ecovillage issues.
- Designers, developers, investors, promoters of ecovillagers.
- Ecovillages looking for a boost for the challenges ahead.
THEMES
We invite you to suggest a presentation. Provisional themes include:
- Creating legal ownership models for ecovillages;
- Glue - what is it?;
- What works - job opportunities in rural settings;
- Government support for free enterprise ecovillages;
- The solar village - a dream?;
- Urbanising the ecovillage concept;
- Developing for profit - the costing challenge;
- What does a dark green ecovillage look like?;
- Ecovillage governing structures that last;
- Encouraging local government to be 'early adopters';
- Financing ecovillages;
- Design issues and infrastructure;
- Market trends and demand
- Mistakes made, lessons learned;
- Ecovillage development after the Tsunami;
- Innovative infrastructures & green technologies
- What is happening overseas?
FORMAT
This event is very likely quite different from other conferences you have attended.
3 days in an established 230+ person ecovillage, guest speakers, slides, powerpoint presentations, case studies, discussions, site visits, making new contacts.
Most conferences try to squeeze as many speakers into a day as possible. We believe that the "edge" of the Conference is as important as the event. We will allow quite lengthy breaks for meals to encourage discussions and exchange. The speakers should stimulate discussion rather than lecture. We will encourage small group discussions and facilitated forums.
In the evenings we can open the bar, socialise, access Powerpoint, slide, video or DVD presentations.We encourage you to bring appropriate information for sharing with others.
FEES AND INCLUSIONS
The conference fee of AU$420 includes:
- Conference admission
- Full colour 14 page A4 booklet about the EcoCentre
- Three catered meals per day (using as far as possible locally grown organic food), plus morning and afternoon teas
- Access to extensive library
- GST
- Please note that accommodation IS NOT included in the conference fee. See options below
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Transport to and form nearest railway station or airport
- A faxing service
- We sell a range of ecovillage books and videos
- A variety of local produce and crafts are also available for sale through the Village Shop
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Please note that accommodation is not included in the conference fee. There are many accommodation options available at Crystal Waters. Please ensure that you note your preference on the Registration Form.
- Self contained cabins and Bed & Breakfast homestays — please ask for details, price and availability.
- Crystal Waters Visitors Area. Camping $11 per night, Bunk bed in bunkhouse $21 per night, 6 beds to a room. (Linen hire $10 extra) Cabin (max 4) $62 per night, Large Caravan $50 per night. The Visitors Area has an ablutions block, washing and drying machines.
FURTHER INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION
To ensure a place at this unique conference return the REGISTRATION FORM to Ecological Solutions with your deposit of $200. Confirmation of your registration will be sent with a receipt, information about what to bring and how to get here. We reserve the right to limit the number of participants.
We appreciate early registration as this greatly assists with our planning. Thank You!
All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars.
DEPOSIT
We will refund your deposit, less an administrative charge of $50 if you cancel prior to the conference. In the unlikely event that the course is cancelled by us, your full deposit will be returned.
ORGANISERS
For more information please contact Max Lindegger at EcoLogical Solutions, 59 Crystal Waters, 65 Kilcoy Lane, Conondale Qld 4552, Australia.
Tel: +61 (0)7 5494 4741, Fax: +61 (0)7 5494 4578. Email: info@ecologicalsolutions.com.au
Internet: www.ecologicalsolutions.com.au and http://genoa.ecovillage.org.
Ecological Solutions proudly sponsors the Global Ecovillage Network - Oceania/Asia (GENOA).
