The Nepalese Association of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment in Australia (NEPAFE) successfully delivered its Learn • Compost • Grow – Community Environmental Awareness & Sustainability Program on Saturday at Hunter Multicultural Communities Inc (HMC), Waratah, bringing together families, multicultural communities, environmental practitioners, and local leaders for an inspiring day of learning and hands‑on engagement.
The event welcomed participants from across Newcastle and surrounding suburbs, reflecting the growing community interest in practical sustainability, urban gardening, and climate resilience. NEPAFE’s Secretary and Program Coordinator, Sujan Neupane, opened the program with a warm welcome and an outline of NEPAFE’s vision for empowering communities through environmental education.
Program Highlights
- NEPAFE Introduction & Sustainability Session delivered by President Dr. Yakindra Timilsena, highlighting NEPAFE’s mission, community programs, and the importance of everyday environmental action.
- Climate Change & Heatwave Awareness presented by Dr. Radha Wagle, offering clear, localised insights into climate impacts and community resilience.
- Keynote reflections from Founding President & Chief Advisor Dr. Jagadish Timsena, emphasising NEPAFE’s long-standing commitment to environmental advocacy and community connection.
- Hands‑on composting and urban gardening demonstrations, delivered with outstanding support from:
- Margaret Kenning, HMC Community Garden Coordinator
- Mel and Tyene, HMC Garden Team
- Warm reception and support from Fadi, CEO of Hunter Multicultural Communities Inc, who welcomed NEPAFE and participants to the venue.
- Lucky draw prize awarded to Mr. Shailesh Adhikari, winner of the gardening pack.
- Free plants and seed packs distributed to all participants, encouraging home gardening and sustainable living.
Hands‑On Learning at Its Best
Participants engaged in practical activities including compost bin setup, planting demonstrations, and choosing from multiple planting modalities—seeds, seedlings, or bulbs. Each participant potted their own selection with guidance from volunteers and took home their plant as part of the sustainability starter pack.
Printed resources were also provided, including:
- Companion Planting Guide
- Seed Sowing Guide
- Composting Fact Sheet
Community Support & Collaboration
NEPAFE extends sincere appreciation to:
- Mr. Beer Rai
- Mandip Kharel, Secretary of the Nepalese Community of Newcastle
- Representatives from Nepalese, Pakistani, and Australian communities
- All volunteers and supporters who contributed to the success of the event
The event concluded with a networking lunch, providing an opportunity for participants, speakers, and partner organisations to connect, share ideas, and explore future collaborations. The Pledge Wall—filled with participant commitments to environmental action—stood as a powerful visual reminder of collective community responsibility.
Acknowledgement of Support
NEPAFE expresses its gratitude to: 🏗️ Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) – Community Support Program Your support made this event possible and continues to empower community-led environmental education across Australia.
Looking Ahead
NEPAFE will continue delivering community-focused environmental programs across Australia. To stay updated or join future workshops, visit nepafe.org.au.
