About Us | EcoLifeAU - Sustainable Farming & Gardening in Australia

Our Journey

EcoLifeAU began in 2012 as a small community initiative led by Sarah and David Thompson, a husband and wife team with a shared passion for sustainable agriculture. After witnessing the devastating impacts of conventional farming practices during Australia's severe drought periods, they transformed their 5-hectare property outside Byron Bay into a demonstration site for regenerative farming techniques.

What started as a weekend workshop series for local farmers quickly grew into a nationwide movement. By 2015, we had established partnerships with agricultural universities across Australia and expanded our team to include experts in permaculture, renewable energy systems, and indigenous land management practices.

In 2018, we launched our online learning platform, connecting urban dwellers with sustainable farming knowledge regardless of their location. The following year, our mobile app allowed users to track their carbon footprint reduction through improved gardening and lifestyle practices.

Today, EcoLifeAU operates demonstration farms in five states, works with over 200 partner organizations, and has helped more than 15,000 Australians transition to more sustainable agricultural and gardening practices. Our community continues to grow as climate challenges make our mission more urgent and relevant than ever.

EcoLifeAU founders working on their first demonstration farm

Our Mission & Values

Our Mission

To transform Australia's relationship with food production by promoting sustainable farming practices that regenerate ecosystems, build community resilience, and honor indigenous wisdom while preparing for climate challenges.

Environmental Stewardship

We believe in working with natural systems rather than against them, using farming practices that build soil health, conserve water, and enhance biodiversity.

Community Connection

We foster networks of mutual support among farmers, gardeners, and food consumers, recognizing that sustainable systems are built on strong social foundations.

Innovation & Adaptation

We embrace both traditional ecological knowledge and cutting-edge technology, finding solutions that are appropriate to local conditions and challenges.

Inclusivity & Respect

We honor the wisdom of Indigenous Australians, whose sustainable land management practices span thousands of years, while welcoming diverse perspectives.

Meet Our Team

Our diverse team brings together expertise in permaculture design, indigenous knowledge, renewable energy, and community education.

Sarah Thompson

Co-Founder & Permaculture Design Specialist

With a background in environmental science and 15 years of hands-on farming experience, Sarah leads our permaculture design programs and farmer mentorship initiatives. She has designed over 200 farm systems across Australia and regularly presents at international sustainability conferences.

David Thompson

Co-Founder & Renewable Energy Systems Expert

David brings his engineering expertise to help farms transition to renewable energy sources. Having designed off-grid systems for properties across rural Australia, he specializes in integrating energy solutions that complement agricultural operations and reduce operating costs.

Aunty Melissa Cooper

Indigenous Knowledge Consultant

A respected Bundjalung elder, Aunty Melissa brings invaluable traditional ecological knowledge to our programs. Her expertise in native food systems, cultural burning practices, and seasonal harvest indicators has transformed our approach to Australian land management.

Dr. James Nguyen

Research Director & Urban Agriculture Specialist

With a PhD in Urban Ecology from Melbourne University, James leads our research partnerships and urban farming initiatives. His innovative vertical farming systems and rooftop garden designs have been implemented in cities across Australia, demonstrating how urban spaces can contribute to food security.

Our Impact & Achievements

Aerial view of EcoLifeAU demonstration farm showing diverse landscape design

2023 Australian Sustainability Award

Recognized for our innovative water conservation systems that reduced agricultural water usage by up to 70%.
10,000+ Hectares Regenerated

Our techniques have helped restore degraded farmland across Australia, improving soil health and biodiversity.
200+ Farms Transitioned to Renewable Energy

Our energy consultations have helped farms reduce their carbon footprint while cutting operational costs.
15,000+ Workshop Participants

Our educational programs have equipped thousands of Australians with practical skills in sustainable agriculture.
Educational Partnerships with 12 Universities

We're helping shape the next generation of agricultural professionals through curriculum development and internship programs.

What People Say About Us

"EcoLifeAU transformed our struggling family farm during Australia's worst drought in decades. Their water harvesting system design not only saved us from bankruptcy but turned our farm into a showcase for climate-resilient agriculture. Five years later, our soil is healthier than ever, and we're producing more nutritious food with a fraction of the inputs."

Emma Watkins

Organic Farmer, Gippsland, Victoria

"As someone living in an apartment in Sydney, I never thought I could contribute meaningfully to sustainable food production. The EcoLifeAU urban gardening workshop changed everything for me. Their practical approaches to balcony gardening, composting, and community garden participation have connected me to my food and my community in ways I never imagined possible."

Michael Chen

Community Garden Coordinator, Sydney

"What sets EcoLifeAU apart is their evidence-based approach combined with deep respect for traditional knowledge. Our research partnership has yielded valuable data on regenerative farming outcomes that's changing how we teach agricultural sciences. Their bridge between academic research and practical implementation is exactly what Australia's farming future needs."