The Bowling Club, Bee the Change & Dr Compost

Join us for an informative morning with three engaging speakers: The Bowling Club (Dunedin), pioneers of affordable, sustainable dining; Bee the Change, advocates for bee-friendly gardens and local food systems; and Dr. Compost, an expert on composting. Learn, share, and enjoy a complimentary afternoon tea as we explore ways to nurture our community and the environment.

*The Bowling Club*
The Bowling Club, founded by Liam Arthur and Jackie Bannon, began as a food truck but has now grown into an eatery in Caversham, Dunedin. They offer $4 meals and a free dish to those who can't afford it, driven by their "pay-it-forward" system fueled by donations. The community-supported venture serves about $100 worth of free food daily and features a servery library for patrons without bowls. The Bowling Club, open for dinner from Thursday to Saturday, aims to provide affordable meals, reminiscent of the legacy of Jane Beecroft's $4 lunches at Otago University Students' Association. It's a heartwarming blend of affordability and community support.

*Bee the Change*
Bee the Change, spearheaded by Neal McAloon, is on a mission to combat the looming threat of insect and bee mass extinction, a global crisis with catastrophic implications for our food supply. Operating at the intersection of Corporate Social Responsibility and environmental education, Bee the Change is dedicated to nurturing robust bee populations. Leveraging New Zealand's unique bio-security laws and prime geographic position, they establish thriving colonies and dispatch 'nucleus hives' to crisis areas worldwide, aiding in bee repopulation. Together, they aim to create a sanctuary for bees, embodying the spirit of kaitiakitanga, Māori guardianship, and fostering a sustainable future.

*Dr Compost*
For more than a decade, Dr. Compost, also known as Ben Elms, has been generously sharing his expertise in composting and gardening with the Queenstown Lakes community. With over two decades of local gardening and composting experience, he imparts valuable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a beginner or looking to optimize your composting system, Dr. Compost provides practical insights to transform your organic waste into invaluable nourishment for your garden.

Important information:
- This is a free event.
- It runs from 12pm to 2pm.
- Booking required.

To book or for more information, please contact the Queenstown Library (03) 441 0600 or email queenstown.library@qldc.govt.nz.