Over the past 20 years Mount Zero has hosted WWOOFers, from all corners of the globe and each one has made a significant contribution to the Mount Zero Olive Grove. Those who are attracted to visit us have deliberately opted to stay on biodynamic or organic family farms. These people share our passion and values and many have become lifelong friends.

In December we were fortunate to have Laure Gaillard WWOOFing at the Mount Zero Olive Grove. Laure had taken 6 months leave from her demanding marketing and communications job in Marseilles to WWOOF through the US, New Zealand and Australia. Here she discovered sustainable agriculture and the growing of organic /biodynamic foods, from which she cooked amazing dishes such as cake au olives, pissaladiere, aioli, and lentilles braise aux lardons. Further showcasing her versatility and enthusiasm for organic produce, she milked the local cow (owned in part by Jane) and showed us how to make Haloumi, Ricotta, Kefir and Yoghurt! Laure was an inspiration to us and we hope she returns to the Mount Zero Olive Grove.

Next month we are looking forward to a WWOOFer from Austria who has spent a month on the international space station! This cross-fertilisation of cultures and ideas keeps us stimulated and gives us a fresh appreciation of what a special part of the world Mount Zero is - when seen through other peoples’ eyes.

Words by Jane Seymour

Read Laure's blog post here - http://labasladeuse.com/2015/12/16/australia-mount...