Who Is
Permaculture Pathways?
Hi, I'm Lauren and I'm the face behind Permaculture Pathways. I have been passionately practicing and helping others to embrace the garden for over 10 years and have no plans of stopping.
I discovered Permaculture after completing my Masters in International and Community Development. This incredible new concept gave me a way to help my community without costing the planet. In fact permaculture I learned helped both at the same time!
I have spent the last decade combining my love of design, my love of nature and my love of people into beautiful gardens and flourishing food systems with clients and in 2020 I began passing my knowledge and experience on in the classroom. I took up the challenge of VET education and began running and teaching the Cert IV Permaculture as well as regular gardening workshops and continue to do so today. In teaching I found a way to share my passion and excitement for the natural world around us and watching my students find a sense of empowerment and grow their own connection with the garden through the learning process is such a joy.
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My permaculture journey has taken me to a number of different places along the lovely east coast of Australia and overseas but these days it finds me settled in the slow paced life of the Northern Midlands Tasmania. Here I continue helping people make their garden dreams a reality and remain committed to helping build community through this learning process.
Permaculture for me is a lifestyle but aside from that, the garden is my happy place. It's where I get to slow down, get some sun and my body moving, play scientist and embrace my inner child in the wonder of bugs and flowers. My mission with Permaculture Pathways is to help others to feel the same joy when stepping into their garden, picking their own flowers or tasting their own tomato. I aim to take the stress out and bring the fun back in and show everyone that there is no such thing as a black thumb! I also want to help my community realise that that becoming more sustainable doesn't mean having to sacrifice, in fact it is the opposite, it means gaining independence, health, friends, and empowerment. It means knowing that no matter what the future brings we can look after ourselves, each other and the natural systems around us that support our human needs, it means joy and fun and self discovery.
To learn more about me and permaculture itself head to the documentary tab or click here to watch a short docuseries about the 'why' of permaculture from 4 permies perspectives (including my own).
"The most profound aspect of permaculture is the deep, intimate relationship it fosters with nature in all her diversity and complexity. This connection is not only ecological but also spiritual, offering healing for both the earth and ourselves"
~ Lauren O'Reilly
What Is Permaculture?
Permaculture, a term coined from "permanent agriculture" and "permanent culture," is a holistic approach to designing sustainable living environments that mimic the patterns and relationships found in nature. It's a philosophy and practice that integrates land, resources, people, and the environment through mutually beneficial synergies—imitating the no-waste, closed-loop systems seen in diverse natural ecosystems.
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In Australia, permaculture has taken root with particular vigor, reflecting the country's diverse climates, from arid regions to lush temperate zones. Australian permaculture pioneers, such as Bill Mollison and David Holmgren, have been instrumental in its development and global spread, emphasizing practices that are adaptable, resilient, and sustainable. These practices include, but are not limited to, water harvesting and management, soil regeneration, forest gardening, and the creation of microclimates.
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Permaculture in Australia is not just about gardening or farming; it's a way of life that fosters community resilience, self-reliance, and a deep respect for the natural world. It encourages individuals and communities to produce their own food, reduce waste, and create energy-efficient habitats, aligning closely with principles of ecological and social sustainability.
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At its core, permaculture is about aligning with nature in all aspects of farming and gardening, acknowledging our integral role within the ecosystem. It encourages us to examine our choices and their impact on this interconnected system. Central to permaculture are three ethics: Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. These ethics guide every permaculture practice, ensuring that it nurtures the planet, supports human communities, and promotes equity and resource sharing.
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This approach has inspired a growing number of Australians to embrace permaculture principles in their gardens, farms, and urban environments, leading to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious way of living. With its emphasis on practical, hands-on solutions and community engagement, permaculture offers a hopeful and effective strategy for addressing environmental challenges and promoting a healthier planet for future generations. Permaculture is inclusive and adaptable, welcoming diverse cultures and ideas, provided they align with its core ethics. It is guided by principles developed by David Holmgren, which serve as valuable lessons in applying permaculture design effectively.
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For me, the most profound aspect of permaculture is the deep, intimate relationship it fosters with nature in all her diversity and complexity. This connection is not only ecological but also spiritual, offering healing for both the earth and ourselves. It reminds us of our deep, unbreakable bond with the natural world, a spiritual truth that has been obscured for too long. This realization brings immense comfort and keeps me grounded.
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If you're intrigued by permaculture and eager to explore further, I encourage you to visit David Holmgren's website or look for Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC) courses in your area. A PDC is an excellent gateway into the world of permaculture, setting you on a path of sustainable living and ecological harmony.
Permaculture Ethics & Design Principles
Permaculture is grounded in three core ethics—care for the earth, care for people, and fair share—and is guided by twelve design principles that harmonize human activities with the natural world. These foundational elements inspire sustainable living and ecological design, offering a blueprint for a resilient and regenerative future.
Get In Touch
I'd love to hear from you. If you're interested in living a more sustainable life, in tune with nature, get in touch so we can discuss creating your garden paradise.