Q. So what's a permablitz?

See here.

Q. Where are you based?

The code for this website was kindly provided by permablitz.net which helps facilitate the Melbourne permablitz network. This site was established to help a number of permablitz groups that were emerging across the Brisbane area. For groups in other regions visit the permablitz.net regional groups page.

Q. How do I get involved?

See here.

Q. What skills do I need to turn up to a blitz?

A. None at all. Everyone is more than welcome regardless of skill level. We welcome first time gardeners.

Q. Who brings tools?

A. Participants generally supply most of the tools. Organisers will usually have some masking tape and a texta on hand so they're easier to identify at the end of the day.

See here.

Q. How do I qualify to get blitzed?

A. There are really two things you need.  One, you need to have been to about three permablitzes.  Besides this being a way of contributing first to the network, this helps you:

• get ideas from other gardens
• pick up some valuable skills
• know what to expect on the day of the permablitz
• and it shows us that you're sufficiently motivated to maintain your garden

Come to three blitzes, and you'll likely have 30 or more people helping you!  A good return on investment.  Most people who have 'earnt' their blitz also come along to future ones, although there's no particular expectation that you do so.

The second thing you need is a permaculture informed design, done by or with the help of at least one person who's completed a Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC).  See below...

Q. Will someone help me design it beforehand?

A. We try to organise at least one volunteer permaculture designer who wants experience to help you with the design process.  Most of the time we find someone, although occassionally distance or complexity of the project works against us.  You can alternatively pay to have a professional permaculture designer help out, and some organisers of the permablitz network are also professional designers.  See our page on Permaculture Design Consultants.

Q. What would be my roles as a blitz host?

A. You'd work with a designer to come up with a design which suits your needs.  They will help generate a list materials which you will need to have ready on the day (we can a call out to the network for anything you need too.)  On the day your main role is as a host and to help feed the troops. Permablitz volunteers can facilitate the day and run workshops.  We now have a draft booklet for blitz hosts -- if you'd like to see it, let us know.

Q. There's no permablitz network in my region.  How would I go about setting up a local permablitz network?

A. It's not too hard to get a permablitz or two happening to test the waters.  There's a mini manual here and also some good resources at the Sydney Permablitz website.  See the list of ever growing local groups.

Q. This is amazing!  Who funds it?

A. For the most part, nobody.  The network is based on volunteerism and reciprocity, and hosts cover whatever personal materials expenses they have.

Q. Is that sustainable?

A. There is absolutely no shortage of people willing to come along and volunteer their time an labour -- and why not?  The days are fun, you meet good people, and everyone learns a lot.  Organisation and admin does take a fair bit of effort in the background which currently goes unremunerated. Currently members of the West End Gardeners Guild have donated their time, energy and some small donations to pay for web expenses and get this site operational.