Let's Grow: Syntropics

LeaderLife are using a regenerative syntropic farming model to provide opportunities for young people falling through the cracks in the Dubbo community. They have planned, designed and implemented a sustainable organic food production system in the heart of Dubbo. Syntropic farming uses principles from natural systems; combining nature, agriculture and agroforestry. There are many benefits; social, economic and ecological, when forestry plots are also planted with small crops and follow a natural succession of planting. This system will provide training, casual employment for youth and community inclusion whilst restoring and creating a resilient ecosystem and regenerative agricultural model to grow food. LeaderLife are excited to supply the local community with nutrient dense food, grown with absolute purpose and intention.

“Never before has it been a more important time to implement innovative, meaningful projects to draw young people back to feeling a sense of belonging, independence, generosity and with and opportunity for meaningful learning. With the current economic shifts in Australia, we believe food security should be high on the agenda” Joh Leader, LeaderLife CEO.

LeaderLife have leased 20 acres at Lower Tamworth Street. The block is being developed into a vibrant productive space supporting youth and community experiencing vulnerabilities and social disadvantage. The project has provided onsite training including site and soil preparation, irrigation installation, tractor driving and horticulture skills like compost creation whilst being mentored and supported by youth workers. Many local businesses and organisations have generously donated resources to the project like soil conditioner, wood chips from a local tree arborist, horse manure from the turf club, and used straw and saw dust from the Dubbo Showground.

Over 300 trees have been planted in between rows of edible produce including herbs, garlic, strawberries, celery, kale, bok choy, lettuce, broad beans, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, spring onions, peas, rhubarb and plenty more.

Planted in April 2024, fresh chemical free produce is already available in one of Dubbo’s local health food stores.

LeaderLife were awarded the 2024 Dubbo Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for ‘Excellence in Sustainability’ which recognises a business that has demonstrated its commitment to sustainable business practises and is working to reduce the impact of its operations on the environment.

Boxes of seasonal produce will be sold to the Dubbo community via our website, launching in July 2025.

Freshly picked produce from our Garden.