Who’s Minding the Farm? In this climate emergency.

Cessnock City Library is hosting author Patrice Newell on Thursday 25 July for a Meet the Author event. Partrice will be discussing her book ‘Who’s Minding the Farm? In this climate emergency. 

In 1987 Patrice Newell left her job to become an organic farmer in the Hunter Valley. At Elmswood, she grows garlic, makes olive oil and keeps bees. It’s from this vantage point she sees many unsustainable processes. ‘Who’s Minding the Farm’ is a detailed look at all aspects of the farming industry, and a call to action for every citizen to take responsibility.

Patrice examines some of the problems for Australian farming including:

•The neglect and abuse of land by farmers. •Degradation of the soil over time, and its impact on the food we eat. •The shrinking, unskilled labour force of short-term workers, and how this affects productivity on the farm. •Depressive illnesses and isolation, suicides and tough times amongst farmers. •How governments have misdirected drought funding. •The chemical industry’s stranglehold on farmers, and why we need to stop our chemical addiction.

Part love song to a life on the farm, and part passionate appeal, ‘Who’s Minding the Farm’ will make you think differently about what we consume and the damage it reaps on the land.

“A heartwarming, informative and engaging account of sustainable farming down under” – Tim Flannery.

What:   Meet the Author: Patrice Newell Who’s Minding the Farm? In this climate emergency.

When: Thursday 25 July 5.00-6.30pm

Where:  Cessnock Library

This event is free with refreshments provided, but bookings are essential. Reserve your spot at libraries.cessnock.nsw.gov.au under ‘Events & Bookings’ or by calling Cessnock Library on 4993 4399. patricenewell.com.au

 7/4/2019