STEPHEN W FERRIS HORTICULTURE

incorporating

Unicorn [Re:]Biological Earth Solutions

+

Professor Diggingtons Old Timey Garden Services and natural native landscapes

inspired and informed by nature to regenerate earth, restore natural landscapes, revegetate the planet, repair Soil microbiomes, transform waste, reduce emissions, capture carbon and rehabilitate biodiversity.

Professor Diggingtons

Old Timey Garden Services and Natural Native Landscapes.

Rehab and Restoration.

Nutrient Management.

Biodynamic Soils, Mulches and Fermented Composts .

Plants and Propagation.

Drainage and Irrigation Solutions.

Rock, Earth and Timber Projects.

Dry Creek Beds.

Garden Design, Implement and Manage.

Sustainable Natural Eco Gardens & Native Landscapes.

Traditional Japanese Stone and Landscape methods.

Unicorn [Re:]

Biological Earth Solutions

Cultivating sustainable biodynamic & regenerative composts, soils and probiotic biological extracts.

Biological management of environmental biohazards [ORGANICS AND WASTEWATER ODOUR].

Biological plant and soil pest management [IPM].

Facilitating the recovery, onsite biological conversion & management of waste biomass.

FOGO initiatives.

Sustainable Bio Systems [Onsite waste capture and conversion: Carbon capture: Humus production: Soil Biome restoration].

Restoration and rehabilitation of Soil biota.

Carbon capture and the Circular Economy.

Regenerative Horticulture + Agriculture.

Natural materials recovery and repurpose.

The conversion of biodynamic soil and compost at any scale at site.

THE CORE SERVICES AND MISSION

Regenerating Earth, Transforming Waste, Empowering Life
We believe in the power of nature and innovation to restore ecosystems, repurpose waste, and create a circular, regenerative future. Our commitment is to transforming organics waste into valuable resources that heal the planet and sustain life.

Stephen W Ferris Horticulture specializes in sustainable, biodynamic, and regenerative horticultural services centered around soil health and organic waste recovery. The core services include:

Production and supply of bioactive, fermented composts and soils such as UNICORN POOP and HumiSoil®, which are rich in humus and beneficial microbes to enhance soil microbiomes and plant growth.
Rehabilitation and restoration of soil ecosystems through microbial, fungal, and bacterial processes that break down biomass and food waste, resulting in carbon-sequestering, biologically active topsoil.
Design and installation of natural growing environments including soil blending, planting design, propagation, vermiculture stations, fertigation solutions, and beneficial insect integration.
Management of organic waste and odor control in industrial, commercial, and residential settings using biological and microbial technologies.
Recovery and creative reuse of natural and recycled materials (logs, stones, metals) for sustainable landscaping and ecological restoration.
Collaboration with farms, schools, government bodies, and developers to improve turf health, crop yields, and organic waste diversion through products like HumiSoil® and XLR8®Bio, a fermented soil probiotic and fertilizer.
Support for organic and biodynamic farming practices that reduce chemical inputs and promote environmental sustainability.

Stephen W Ferris Horticulture emphasizes closed-loop, biologically driven solutions for soil and landscape health, leveraging licensed microbial technologies to transform organic waste into valuable soil amendments and natural landscapes

At Unicorn [RE:] Biological Earth Solutions, our mission is to revolutionise environmental restoration through cutting-edge biological science and regenerative practices. We focus on waste biomass recovery and conversion, transforming organic waste into renewable resources that restore soil health, purify water, and rebalance ecosystems. By harnessing the potential of nature-based solutions, we create sustainable cycles that reduce waste, enhance biodiversity, and build a resilient future for our planet.

Sustainable Biodynamic Horticulture,Natural Landscapes and Biological Earth Solutions
FERMENTED + BIODYNAMIC SOILS, COMPOSTS, MULCHES, BIOCHAR AND PROBIOTIC EXTRACTS PRODUCED VIA THE BIOLOGICAL INOCULATION OF WASTE BIOMASS. BIOLOGICAL PEST SOLUTIONS [INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT] BIOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL BIOHAZARDS [ORGANICS AND WASTEWATER ODOUR]
UNICORN [RE:] BIOLOGICAL EARTH SOLUTIONS USES HYBRID BIOLOGICAL TECHNOLOGIES TO PRODUCE UNICORN BIO PRODUCTS. FOR LARGE SCALE WASTE CONVERSION APPLICATIONS, AGRICULTURE, REHABILTATIOIN PROJECTS, HORTICULTURE AND LAND + RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, I EMPLOY LICENCED KEY TECHNOLOGIES FROM VRM BIOLOGIK® - HUMISOIL®, XLR8 Bio® and the GROUNDSWELL® PROCESS.
Essentially, all life depends upon the soil… There can be no life without soil and no soil without life; they have evolved together.
Dr. Charles E Kellogg, Soil Scientist and Chief of the USDA’s Bureau for Chemistry and Soils
A highly fertile soil should be populated with a diverse population of micro-organisms and can contain many thousands of species of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, beneficial nematodes and algae. This is commonly referred to as the Soil Food Web, or MICROBIOME. As part of their normal life cycle, beneficial soil microbes are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen, increase phosphorus availability, produce vitamins and hormones needed by the plants, produce water, build HUMUS and increase breakdown of cellulose to name a few benefits.
Humus is the home base for beneficial biology in your soil and it also governs moisture retention. Humic acid is like a humus concentrate in itself, but it also serves to boost production of stable humus via beneficial soil fungi. Humic acid is the most powerful known promotant of these creatures and when these organisms are activated, they increase their humus-building activity. Humic acid also promotes root growth and mineral retention, and neutralises toxic residues and heavy metals.
Soils in natural environs are full of beneficial micro-organisms that include Microbes, Bacteria and Fungi, esp. Mycorrhizal fungi. Activities including cultivation, excessive use of chemical fertilisers, monoculture cropping, fumigation, heat treatment, removal of topsoil, and leaving soil without vegetation for a period of time, all reduce the Biome
A viable and healthy Soil Ecology is the foundation of Regenerative, Sustainable Horticulture. The ingredients and processes add essential Bioactivity to your Soil for improved plant performance, soil structure, rhizosphere health, nutrient availability, resistance to pests and disease, Carbon Sequestration, accumulation of Biological agents and Humic content. There are NO artificial elements contained in my Soil. It is completely natural, made to order.....and ALIVE. We want to be concentrating on the Soil and not what is growing in it.
NATURAL NATIVE AND INDIGENOUS LANDSCAPES [ANTI-LANDSCAPING]
Sustainable, Natural Landscapes + Gardens based on Unicorn Poop. Hardscapes built from objects that are natural, re-purposed and re-cycled - including Stone, Timber, Earth, Metal and Bamboo.
Native species have advantages over exotic favourites. Plants evolve in particular environments and natural selection ensures that a plant is adapted to suit that environment. Therefore, the use of local species, results in plants that are well suited to the conditions it will experience.
Native species offer a more sympathetic addition to existing vegetation when designing Natural Landscapes and when selected carefully, offer significant advantages over exotics with regards to water requirements and drought tolerance.
Criticism of the 'dull and small leaved' native species is unfounded as there is a wide variety of colours and textures available and any area that is populated with native plants attracts a large number of birds, bugs, butterflies and bees.
Conservation, Restoration and Revegetation of Natural Native Environments is vital to Ecoregions and should be motivation enough to consider Native Plants and Sustainable, Recovered Natural Resources more thoughtfully.

RESTORATION AND REHABILITATION OF SOIL BIOTA AND LANDSCAPES
Rehabilitation of Soil Ecosystems and the restoration of Microbiomes creating Natural Micro-Organism Diversity. The foundation of my Rehabilitation process is UNICORN POOP, a regenerative bioactive soil produced in Aeroglen utilising Microbial, Fungal and Bacterial processes to break down biomass and food waste. The resulting Topsoil is alive, rich with humus, is bioactive and contains sequestered Carbon. I then fortify this Topsoil with Biochar, Composts, Vermicast, Natural Minerals and biological amendments.

SUSTAINABLE BIODYNAMIC COMPOST AND SOIL CULTIVATION FOR REGENERATIVE FARMING, HORTICULTURE, LAND MANAGEMENT, REHABILITATION + GARDEN SYSTEMS.
Design and Installation of your growing environment. Blending and supply of Bioactive Soil. Planting Design + Scheduling. Propagation and Cultivation. Vermiculture stations. Fertigation Solutions. Beneficial Insects. Compost Stations. Native Species specialist. Fermented biological extracts + Probiotics, Aerobic and Anaerobic Solutions. Microbial, Bacterial and Fungal input processes. Natural amendment inputs and nutrients.
BIOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL BIOHAZARDS [ORGANICS AND WASTEWATER ODOUR]
The sustainable biological management of odour from waste water and organic solids. Suitable for Industrial, Commercial and Residential applications. Yes. I possess the technology to quickly and easily solve odour issues present in your waste water plumbing.
NATURAL MATERIALS RECOVERY AND REPURPOSE
The rescue and recovery of fallen and felled logs, rocks, stones and more. Sustainable and creative use of recovered materials for Natural Native and Indigenous Landscapes, Bespoke Gardens, Natural Creeks and the rehabilitation and restoration of Ecologies. Nature has always known better, so why fight it. [RE:] COVER and [RE:] THINK the manner in which we Landscape. I specialise in Natural Native Gardens and Landscapes utilising recovered natural resources and materials. I will not install anything that Nature hasn't provided OR approved, for example....concrete and builders plastic. I value old school methods and attention to detail combined with sustainable practices. I won't get anything completed in record time, but it will be done right with ecological responsibility in mind.
PARTNERSHIPS and COLLABORATION
INDUSTRIAL
UNICORN [RE:] is always looking for businesses wanting to collaborate in organic waste management and improving their grassed areas and/or crops. We can assist schools, farms and government bodies in the removal of organic waste and providing HumiSoil® by the m³ to rejuvenate sports ovals, improve crop yield, amongst many other uses. UNICORN [RE:] is also available to work with government bodies with natural disaster clean-ups by removing the large quantities of organic waste these weather events produce.
RESIDENTIAL
UNICORN [RE:] provides a unique service that is tailored to each individual’s residential needs. Depending on the type of turf, size of treatment area, and yard layout, UNICORN[RE:] can make specific recommendations on product and quantities to ensure the best possible results. HumiSoil® can be applied as a topsoil when laying new turf on a new home, or as a top-dress to rejuvenate existing lawns. HumiSoil® also produces fantastic results on the backyard veggie patch.
COMMERCIAL
HumiSoil® is perfect for innovative farmers wanting to change the status quo and reduce chemical inputs. Using microbiological products is more cost effective and lessens the impact on the environment than traditional chemical based fertilizers. Available by the m³, HumiSoil® improves crop yield. UNICORN [RE:] can also assist developers conducting large construction projects, and who want to be industry leaders in turf health.

VRM BIOLOGIK®
GREEN COLLAR
TERRAIN NRM
agriculture + FARMING
POLLINATORS
horticulture industry
Launch Y(E)P
The Green Space
Cairns Smart Green Economy
Greener Spaces Better Places
NQ LAND MANAGEMENT
CAIRNS REGIONAL COUNCIL
RUSTYS MARKETS
LOCAL BUSINESS [vegetation managers, catering + hospitality, fnq coffee industry, chicken farms, horse stables, seafood and butcher waste, schools, hospitals, construction industry, civil + commercial waste]
NATIVE INDIGENOUS LAND CUSTODIANS + RESOURCE MANAGERS + LAND CARE GROUPS
YOU

FOGO (Food Organics Green Organics)
FOGO, which stands for Food Organics and Garden Organics, is a waste management system that has gained significant traction in Australia in recent years. This innovative approach to waste collection and processing aims to divert organic waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating valuable compost for agricultural and landscaping purposes.

Key Components of FOGO
Waste Collection: FOGO typically involves a three-bin system: 1. A lime green-lidded bin for food and garden waste. 2. A yellow-topped bin for recycling. 3. A smaller red-topped bin for general waste
Accepted Materials: FOGO bins can accommodate a wide range of organic materials, including:- Fruit and vegetable scraps- Processed food and leftovers (meat, fish, chicken, bread, eggs, dairy)- Garden waste (grass clippings, flowers, small branches, leaves)- Paper towels and compostable plates.
Environmental Impact: By diverting organic waste from landfills, FOGO significantly reduces methane emissions and groundwater pollution risks.
Resource Recovery: The collected organic waste is transformed into nutrient-rich compost, which can be used to enrich soils in parks, gardens, and farms.
Cost Savings: FOGO processing is generally cheaper than landfill disposal, potentially saving councils millions of dollars annually.
Compliance with Regulations: Many Australian states are mandating FOGO services, with New South Wales requiring all households to have access to FOGO collections by 2030 Implementation Progress. As of February 2025, FOGO has been gaining momentum across Australia:- In Western Australia, 23 local governments offer FOGO services to 270,000 households as of October 2024 - Mid Coast Council in New South Wales has approved a contract for a state-of-the-art FOGO processing facility near Tuncurry, set to be operational by 2027. - Cumberland City Council in New South Wales is conducting a two-stage trial program, with a larger scale trial planned for implementation in 2025.

Challenges and Considerations
While FOGO offers numerous benefits, its implementation comes with challenges:
1. Education: Proper sorting of waste requires ongoing community education and engagement.
2. Infrastructure: Councils need to invest in appropriate collection and processing facilities.
3.Cost Distribution: Some argue that the current fixed-rate waste collection system may not fairly account for households that produce less waste or compost at home. As FOGO continues to expand across Australia, it represents a significant step towards more sustainable waste management practices, contributing to reduced landfill usage and increased resource recovery
While the benefits are significant, there are some challenges to implementing FOGO services:- Initial setup costs and ongoing operational expenses need to be carefully managed - Education and community engagement are crucial to ensure proper use of FOGO bins and minimize contamination - Multi-Unit Dwellings (MUDs) may face specific challenges in implementing FOGO services. Despite these challenges, a thorough consideration of FOGO can maximize waste diversion and financial savings, enabling local governments to invest in the future of their communities . With proper planning and implementation, FOGO services can significantly contribute to building a sustainable, low-waste, circular economy in local communities.

Environmental Benefit
FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) services have significant positive impacts on local communities and economies. These services offer a range of benefits that extend beyond waste management, contributing to environmental sustainability, job creation, and economic growth.
FOGO services not only reduce emissions but also:- Save landfill space- Support local jobs in the waste and recycling sector- Produce valuable compost for local use- Reduce costs associated with landfill management.
By implementing FOGO services, communities can make a significant contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions while creating valuable resources and supporting local economies.
FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection systems are significantly more effective at reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional landfill disposal methods. When organic waste is sent to landfill, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. In contrast, FOGO diverts organic waste from landfills, leading to substantial emissions reductions:
1. Emissions reduction: For every 1,800 tonnes of organic waste diverted from landfill through FOGO, approximately 2,880 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-e) emissions are avoided. This is equivalent to taking 1,195 cars off the road annually.
2. Landfill space savings: FOGO significantly reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill, saving valuable landfill space. In 2020, regional FOGO initiatives saved approximately 20,000 cubic metres of landfill space.
3. Carbon sequestration: The compost produced through FOGO can be used to improve soil quality, effectively sequestering carbon in the ground. This process helps to draw down carbon from the atmosphere, further contributing to emissions reduction.
4. Scalability: If Australia were to recycle 95% of its organic resources by 2030 (up from the current 51.5% including garden organics), an additional 3.2 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions would be saved annually. This is equivalent to planting 4.8 million trees or removing 742,000 cars from the road each year.
5. Comparison to other methods: While other waste management methods like landfill gas capture and flaring can reduce emissions, they are less effective than FOGO. For example, gas capture and flaring at landfill sites in some councils only abate an average of 22,000 tonnes of CO2e per year. In conclusion, FOGO is a highly effective waste management method for reducing emissions, outperforming traditional landfill disposal and offering additional benefits such as resource recovery and soil improvement.
FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection systems are highly effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional waste management methods, particularly landfilling. FOGO processing emits significantly less greenhouse gas than putrescible landfills per tonne of organic materials managed. Composting food waste through FOGO reduces emissions by 96% compared to landfilling. This substantial reduction is primarily due to the prevention of methane production, which is about 25 times stronger than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas. The effectiveness of FOGO in reducing emissions is demonstrated by several examples: 1. In 2020, Tweed Shire collected 11,748 tonnes of FOGO, saving 17,642 tonnes of CO2e. When the resulting compost was applied to soil, an additional 8,830 tonnes of CO2e were saved annually. 2. Over a 10-year period, Lismore Council diverted 50,186 tonnes of FOGO from landfill, saving 25,000 cubic meters of landfill space. 3. Armidale Regional Council's FOGO service diverts more than 1,800 tonnes of organic resources from landfill annually, preventing the emission of 2,880 tonnes of CO2e. This is equivalent to taking 1,195 cars off the road each year. FOGO systems not only reduce emissions but also provide additional benefits:- Resource recovery: A three-bin service that includes FOGO can increase kerbside recovery rates to about 65% or higher - Job creation: Resource recovery directly creates 9.2 full-time equivalent positions per 10,000 tonnes of waste treated, compared to 2.8 for landfill disposal - Soil improvement: FOGO products can enhance soil quality and be used locally, reducing transportation-related environmental impacts. While FOGO systems are highly effective, their success depends on proper implementation and education. Many households primarily use FOGO bins for garden waste, with food scraps making up a small portion of the bin contents. Increasing awareness and education about the environmental benefits of FOGO and proper usage can further enhance its effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Composting Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) offers numerous benefits over sending this waste to landfill:
FOGO services play a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of waste:- They divert organic waste from landfills, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, which is about 25 times stronger than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas.- By composting organic waste, FOGO services help create nutrient-rich soil amendments that can be used in local agriculture and gardening, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.- The reduction in landfill volumes leads to decreased odor and leachate production, improving the local environment.
Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Composting FOGO significantly reduces methane emissions, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. When organic waste decomposes in landfills without oxygen, it produces methane, whereas composting occurs in the presence of oxygen, avoiding methane production.
Carbon Sequestration: Compost captures the carbon content of organic waste and stores it in the ground when applied, helping to mitigate climate change.
Soil Improvement: Compost adds valuable nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to the soil, improving its health and water retention capacity. This can help restore depleted soils and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.
Water Conservation: Compost-enriched soils retain more water, helping to conserve water in irrigation, manage stormwater, and reduce the impact of drought.
FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection services significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through several key mechanisms:
Diversion from Landfills
FOGO services divert organic waste away from landfills, where it would otherwise decompose and generate methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Methane is approximately 25-28 times more potent than carbon dioxide in terms of its global warming potential.
Composting Process
Instead of ending up in landfills, FOGO waste is processed into nutrient-rich compost. This composting process: 1. Produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to landfill decomposition. 2. Creates a valuable product that can be used to improve soil quality and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.
Carbon Sequestration
When the resulting compost is applied to soil, it helps sequester carbon, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This process effectively locks carbon into the ground, removing it from the atmosphere.
Quantifiable Impact
The impact of FOGO services on greenhouse gas emissions reduction is substantial:- If just 1% of Australian households diverted food scraps from landfill, it would be equivalent to removing 22,655 cars from the road annually.- In Armidale, Australia, diverting 1,800 tonnes of organic waste from landfill prevented the emission of 2,880 tonnes of CO2 equivalent, comparable to taking 1,195 cars off the road yearly.- A truck filled with 25 tonnes of FOGO can travel 15,444 km to a composting facility before emitting the same amount of greenhouse gases as that load would in landfill.

Economic Benefits
Cost Savings: Composting FOGO is generally cheaper than landfill disposal. For an average Sydney council collecting and landfilling 30,000 tonnes of waste per year, removing even 50% of food organics can save up to $2 million annually.
Reduced Landfill Costs: The cost of sending rotting waste to landfill can range between $45 – $105 per tonne in urban areas. Composting helps avoid these costs.
Agricultural Benefits: Improved soil health through compost application can lead to higher agricultural yields and reduced costs for fertilizers and irrigation.
The implementation of FOGO services can bring substantial economic benefits to local communities:
Job Creation- FOGO services generate more employment opportunities compared to traditional waste disposal methods. Resource recovery directly creates 9.2 full-time equivalent positions per 10,000 tonnes of waste treated, compared to 2.8 for landfill disposal - For example, the FOGO facility in the Australian Capital Territory is expected to generate up to 15 direct jobs, as well as additional indirect employment opportunities.
Cost Savings- FOGO can be more cost-effective than landfill disposal, especially in areas with significant landfill levies - Local governments can potentially save money by reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill, minimizing exposure to increasing landfill costs over the long term.
Investment Opportunities- The growing demand for FOGO processing services can drive investment in processing infrastructure, stimulating local economies, Community Engagement and Education. FOGO services also have social impacts on local communities:- They provide an opportunity for residents to actively participate in sustainable waste management practices.
FOGO programs can raise community awareness about waste reduction and environmental responsibility.- Successful implementation of FOGO services can lead to increased community satisfaction and pride in local sustainability efforts.
Circular Economy: Composting FOGO supports the circular economy by processing and returning nutrient-rich compost to soil.
Valuable Resource Creation: Instead of wasting organic matter, composting transforms it into a valuable soil amendment that can be used in agriculture, landscaping, and gardening.

Other Benefits
Increased Bin Capacity: Weekly FOGO collection can provide more bin capacity for households.
Job Creation: The composting industry can create new green jobs in collection, processing, and distribution of compost products.
Community Awareness: FOGO programs increase community awareness about waste reduction and recycling, with 95% of residents aware of at least one outcome of FOGO .By diverting FOGO from landfills, we can significantly reduce environmental impact, create valuable resources, and realize economic benefits, making it a far superior option to landfill disposal.

Cost Comparison - FOGO vs. Landfill
FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection generally offers cost advantages compared to other waste management methods, particularly landfill and Alternative Waste Treatment (AWT).FOGO is typically cheaper than landfill, especially in areas with significant landfill levies. For an average Sydney council collecting and landfilling 30,000 tonnes of waste per year, removing even 50% of food organics through FOGO can save up to $2 million annually.
FOGO vs. AWT
AWT is generally more expensive than both landfill and FOGO. The price differential is evident across various regions in Australia, with FOGO processing costs being lower than AWT.
Collection Costs
While implementing FOGO services involves upfront and ongoing costs, they can significantly reduce the amount of general waste sent to landfill, minimizing long-term expenses. The addition of a FOGO bin may increase the cost per household per year by $29 - $42, depending on the suburb and residual waste disposal option.
Cost Stability
FOGO collection costs have remained relatively stable compared to other waste management methods. Between 2016 and 2023, FOGO collection costs increased by 30%, compared to a 45% increase in general waste disposal costs and a 317% increase for recycling.
Long-term Benefits
As landfill capacity becomes limited and costs increase, FOGO is expected to become even more cost-effective in the future. Additionally, FOGO services provide an opportunity to reduce exposure to increasing landfill costs over the longer term. In conclusion, while the initial implementation of FOGO may involve some costs, it generally offers financial benefits and cost savings compared to other waste management methods, particularly in the long run.
The cost implications of adding a FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) bin to an existing two-bin system vary, but generally aim to be cost-neutral or minimally impactful for residents. Here are the key points:
1. Initial costs are often subsidized: Many local governments receive funding from state programs to offset the costs of transitioning to a three-bin FOGO system. For example, some areas in Western Australia have been offered up to $25 per bin through the WA Waste Authority's Better Bins Program.
2. Minimal increase in waste charges: In some cases, the addition of FOGO services results in a small increase in annual waste charges. For instance, one area reported an increase of less than $5 per year on additional waste charges.
3. Cost-neutral in some areas: Some local governments, like the City of Swan, currently maintain the same fee for both two-bin and three-bin systems.
4. Long-term cost benefits: While the introduction of a third bin for FOGO does result in higher collection costs, this is often offset by the cheaper cost of processing organic material compared to landfill costs. This can lead to an overall cost-neutral kerbside waste collection service in some areas.
5. Prevention of future cost increases: Introducing FOGO helps reduce general waste production, potentially preventing significant future increases in waste service charges.
6. Additional services: The waste service charge typically covers more than just kerbside collection, including verge collections, bulk waste, and recycling centers. It's important to note that cost implications can vary between different local governments and may change over time. Residents should check with their specific local council for the most accurate and up-to-date information on FOGO-related costs in their area

VRM BIOLOGIK®

GROUNDSWELL®

The Groundswell® process, developed by VRM Biologik®, is an innovative approach to soil regeneration and sustainable agriculture. This patented continuous fermentation process transforms organic waste materials into beneficial soil amendments.

1. Organic Waste Conversion: The process begins by adding VRM Biologik catalysts to accumulated organic wastes, such as farm residues or community waste.

2. Continuous Fermentation: Using infrared and other radiation, the organic waste undergoes a patented continuous fermentation process.

3. Bacterial Photosynthesis: The process stimulates bacterial photosynthesis, which sequesters carbon from the air and uses captured energy to convert organic matter into natural soil amendments.

4. Product Creation: The main products of this process are HumiSoil® and XLR8 Bio®, which are natural bio-fertilizers

Benefits of the Groundswell® Process

Soil Regeneration: When spread over degraded topsoil, these biofertilizers reinvigorate the soil by stimulating a living community called archaea.

Water Production: The process continuously produces water in the soil, independent of rain or irrigation.

Nutrient Accumulation: It accumulates nutrients in the soil, improving overall soil health.

Phosphorus Availability: The process naturally unlocks 'trapped' phosphorus, making it bioavailable to plants.

Yield Improvement: The enriched soil leads to increased crop yields and allows for the recovery of previously unproductive soils

Application and Scale

The Groundswell® process is designed for industrial scale application. It can be used to manage organic materials at scale and has been featured in government reports as a method of choice for managing organic materials. The process is versatile and can be applied to various organic waste sources, including sewage sludge and green waste. By utilizing this process, farmers and communities can transform waste into valuable resources, promoting a circular economy approach to agriculture and waste management while simultaneously improving soil health and crop productivity.

Feed your plants AND rebuild your soil naturally

Top soil enhancement

Humisoil®

HumiSoil® is a humus-rich soil enhancer of which aids the development of humus in soil. The pre-fostering of humus allows growers to speed up the natural process of humus formation in soil. As a fully matured top-soil enhancer made from 100% organic input, this product not only contains high levels of Humic materials, but a range of beneficial microbial activity. With continued use, this product assists in the maintenance of healthy soil biology. HumiSoil® is best used in tandem with XLR8® Bio.

What does HumiSoil® do?

High levels of Humic materials = carbon fixation and natural humus formation
Nitrogen fixation from air = reduced reliance on nutrient application
Mobilisation of phosphorus = higher, sustained available P
Promotes beneficial fungi = antibiotic, soil formation and nutrient transfer functions
Hydrosynthesis = manufacture of water via bacterial photosynthesis
Unlock soil nutrients
Use less water
Mobilise phosphorus

Soil benefits of HumiSoil®

A microbial incubator – HumiSoil® acts as casseting media which allows the establishment of important soil cultures in otherwise difficult circumstances. These organisms are responsible for fixing carbon and feeding energy, nutrients and water into the soil profile.

Promoting beneficial fungi – HumiSoil® assists in the development of a range of beneficial fungi species which provide and antibiotic support to plants as well as performing important functions in the formation of soil particles and in the development of nutrient transfer cultures around the roots of plants.

A water reservoir – HumiSoil® contains bacteria which manufacture water.

Additionally, HumiSoil® fosters humus development in soil which in turn helps to absorb and store moisture.

HumiSoil® supports the development of naturally healthy soil. Healthy soil microbes have been linked with reduced pathogen and disease presence.

Key Notes:

This product is perfectly applicable to all growing media including garden beds, lawns, natives, herbs, veggies, roses etc
Application rate: Approximately 1kg to 1m2 – apply yearly or as frequently as desired.
This product meets the AS4454 Commercial Compost and is safe to use across any growing plot.
Do not plant seeds directly into HumiSoil®. For seed raising, mix HumiSoil® with sand or other soil and wait 2 week prior to planting seeds. Seedlings are safe to plant directly into.
HumiSoil® is created through the Groundswell® process, recycling organic materials such as vegetative & food waste, coffee, fish emulsion & manures.

Carbon-rich: HumiSoil® contains high levels of humic materials, which are carbon-rich compounds
Nitrogen: It has the ability to fix nitrogen from the air, reducing the need for additional nitrogen application
Phosphorus: HumiSoil® helps mobilize phosphorus in the soil, leading to higher and more sustained available phosphorus
Trace elements: The product aids in the fixation and mobilization of numerous trace elements
Organic matter: As a fully matured top-soil enhancer made from organic inputs, it contains various organic nutrients
Microbial content: While not a nutrient per se, HumiSoil® contains beneficial microorganisms that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and availability

It's important to note that the exact nutrient composition may vary depending on the specific organic inputs used in the Groundswell® continuous fermentation process. For precise nutrient content, it would be best to consult the manufacturer or request a detailed analysis of the product.

Liquid soil enhancement

XLR8 BIO®

XLR8®Bio is a fermented soil probiotic and fertiliser will significantly:

improves soil health
restores the natural balance of microbes
enhances vitality and production of plants
builds resilience to pest & disease
increases plant yield and quality of fruit
is safe to be used liberally, everywhere

Crafted from fermented food waste, XLR8®Bio is derived from 100% natural ingredients and is suitable for organic and non-organic gardens. While originally created for the agricultural market, XLR8®Bio is a tried and tested back yard favourite. Allowing Mum’s and Dad’s to know that their garden is safe for their kids to play in with no synthetics being sprayed about.

Uses include:

Lawn rejuvenation (builds moisture retention even in sandy soil!)
Natives
Veggies & herbs
Seedlings all the way up to perennials
Orchids
Pot plants
Indoor plants

XLR8®Bio is a probiotic formulation combining the key technologies pioneered by VRM Biologik® for soil enhancement and nutrient management. With continued use, the ongoing stimulation of biological reactions in soil contributed to building of humus and mychorrizal activity in the critical root zone.

XLR8®Bio works by releasing nutrients locked in soil and accelerating nutrient uptake and utilisation by crops. This inoculant contains beneficial microbes and sugars which when applied to the soil, encourage all the existing microbes on the property to the party. They then multiply rapidly due to the XLR8®Bio and begin to move towards plants in which they trade (the plants are then producing sugars and exude them into the soil by the roots to feed the microbes in return for water and nutrients). These exudates are essentially carbon, taking the Co2 from the air and pumping it into the soil to continue the trade process. This process essentially stimulates microbial activity, in which mychorrizal fungi are also present. The fungi attach themselves to the plant roots and create massive networks of hyphae (roots).

Above all, with continued use of XLR8®Bio, we’re helping nature rebuild the natural biology in soil so plants, bacteria and microbes can live symbiotically, the way nature intended.

Improve soil structure
Use less fertiliser
Unlock soil nutrients
Use less water
Mobilise phosphorus

BIOLOGICAL PEST SOLUTIONS

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT

What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a proven farming approach to control agricultural pests by prioritising natural predators and non-chemical methods.

Since the 1950s, farmers have relied heavily on routine applications of chemical pesticides to control insects and mite pests in their commercial crops. There is now decades of evidence to show this approach is no longer sustainable:

Pests are growing increasingly resistant to poisons, which means we are running out of options to control crop pests with chemicals.
We better understand the adverse effects of chemicals on human health. Today’s consumers are seeking cleaner food, and regulators and retailers overseas are setting limits for growers on the level of residual pesticides on their crops.
We better recognise the adverse effect of chemicals on our environment, killing beneficials to shift the balance in favour of pests, and contaminating our soil, air and waterways.

Prioritises non-chemical controls

Integrated Pest Management prioritises non-chemical controls to manage pests in crops, with chemicals playing a supporting role when necessary. IPM options include:

quarantine and hygiene – general practices such as removing diseased plants quickly, and keeping pest-attracting weeds under control
biological control – establishing beneficial organisms in your crop that naturally prey on pests
cultural and physical control – optimising the growing environment to discourage pests from establishing and reproducing
varietal selection – choosing crop varieties that are naturally more resistant to pests
chemical control – using pesticides only when necessary that are specific to the target pests, non-residual and safe to beneficials.

Sustainable Biodynamic Products

SHOP UNICORN [RE:] PRODUCTS SAFELY ON SQUARE

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AS 4419 / AS 4454

High analysis bioactive and diverse COMPOSTS, SOILS AND BIO EXTRACTS. Produced utilising Anaerobic Micro Biology to convert and ferment waste BIOMASS, FOOD WASTE AND OTHER ORGANICS that were previously taken to Landfill. Once in landfill, food waste breaks down and emits greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. One third of all food produced is lost or wasted – around 1.3 billion tonnes of food – costing the global economy close to $940 billion each year. Almost half of all fruit and vegetables produced are wasted. If food waste were a country, it would be the third largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions globally behind the USA & China. In Australia, we waste roughly 7.3 million tonnes of food costing over $20 billion per year. With 25% of all water used in agriculture going into food production, that’s one quarter of our usable water resource discarded. Another resource we cannot afford to abuse.

UNICORN [RE:] BIOLOGICAL EARTH SOLUTIONS USES ANAEROBIC BIOLOGICAL TECHNOLOGIES IN COMBINATION WITH TRADITIONAL AEROBIC PROCESSES TO PRODUCE UNICORN BIO PRODUCTS. FOR LARGE SCALE WASTE CONVERSION APPLICATIONS, AGRICULTURE, REHABILITATION PROJECTS, HORTICULTURE AND LAND + RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, I EMPLOY LICENCED KEY TECHNOLOGIES FROM VRM BIOLOGIK - HUMISOIL®, XLR8 Bio® and the GROUNDSWELL® PROCESS.

unicorn pee pee probiotics

$20

A powerful Biological Pro Biotic Extract, Soil Conditioner and Natural Bio-Fertiliser. Unicorn Pee Pee contains Humates, Fulvic Acid, Aloe Extract, Activated Char Condensate, Fish Hydrolysate, Cold Composted Bull Kelp, Aged Manures, Fermented Biodynamic Compost, Mycorrhizal, Bacteria and a Diverse Beneficial Micro Organism Population. Concentrated...so a little goes a long way. Many uses and benefits include as a Soil Conditioner, Biological agent feed and booster, Natural Bio-Fertiliser, Lawn starter and complete leaf & root booster, Foliar Spray, Aids in Pest control, A chelating agent, Improved Biodiversity. The perfect accompaniment to UNICORN POOP or UNICORN GO POTTY.

unicorn poop biosoil

$45

UNICORN POOP IS A COMPLETE PREMIUM BIOSOIL. Based on COMPOOST, then blended with natural amendments, biochar, rock minerals, sand, carbon, trace minerals, volcanic rock. aged mulch, fish and kelp elements, drainage elements and further fortified with Mycorrhizae and Aerobic bacteria. THIS IS BIOLOGICAL HEADQUARTERS. UNICORN POOP can be adapted to any application; Regenerative Farming, Agriculture, Horticulture, Land Management, Soil Biota rehabilitation, Revegetation Projects, Council Ammenities and Gardens, the Landscape Industry and Residential. Processed by Anaerobic Inoculation, the fermented product is Biodynamic highly fertile, and possesses a host of special tricks to aid in Soil Health, Environmental pressures and Micro Organism diversity.

UNICORN POOP Bio Soil, crafted from FOGO and other waste biomass utilising Anaerobic microbes to enhance Humus production and soil biology. This natural process promotes the production of Humus and Fulvic Acid, creating the perfect environment for beneficial Microbes, Fungi Earthworms and bacteria to thrive. Hand Made. Produced using waste and natural inputs and fortified with Biochar, Rock Minerals and Sequestered Carbon. Benefits include increased resistance to pests and pathogens, superior water retention, improved soil texture and structure, much less environmental impact, removal of toxins, fixes atmospheric Nitrogen, mobilises Phosphorous, builds Humus and attracts MICRO-ORGANISMS. Biological. Biodiverse. Alive. Sustainable.

unicorn go potty

$50

GO POTTY is the potting mix version of UNICORN POOP BIOSOIL. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor pots and any plant speciesIt contains the same biology, unicorn compoost and environmental benefits - blended with sand, coir, biochar, rock minerals, perlite and aged mulch. Like all UNICORN products, it's made locally, by a local, using recovered local resources...and local BIOTECHNOLOGY, being used locally and collaboratively. CIRCULAR ECONOMY.Based on UNICORN BIO Compoost, a sustainable biodynamic product produced with Anaerobic Microbial Catalysts to ferment Organic Biomass and Food Waste. The result is a Robust Topsoil like Compost rich in Humus and Fulvic content, Bacterial, Fungal, Beneficial Nematodes and Protozoa MICRO-ORGANISMS. This base is then fortified with Natural inputs (sand, biochar, coir, volcanic rock minerals and selected bark to produce UNICORN GO POTTY BLEND

UNICORN BIO COMPOOST

$40

HUMISOIL® is the resulting high value fermented + inoculated compost + topsoil enhancer made from the biological anaerobic conversion of recovered waste biomass. Further amendment and processing produces, UNICORN BIO SOIL, UNICORN GO POTTY BLEND AND plays a big role in the brewing of UNICORN PEE PEE Pro Biotic Conditioner. Food waste collected from local markets and hospitality businesses and organic biomass is processed in Aeroglen utilising Aerobic and Anaerobic Biodynamic principles This natural hybrid process promotes the production of Humus and Fulvic Acid, creating the perfect environment for beneficial microbes, Fungi, Earthworms and Bacteria to thrive. An initial period of traditional Aerobic decomposition is then followed by a process of Fermentation by Anaerobic Microbes. Benefits include increased resistance to pests and pathogens, superior water retention, improved soil texture and structure, much less environmental impact, removal of toxins, fixes atmospheric Nitrogen, mobilises Phosphorous, builds Humus and attracts MICRO-ORGANISMS. Biological. Biodiverse. Alive. Sustainable.

DIRT BAGS

$75

Hessian sacks recovered from the coffee industry in FNQ - filled with UNICORN POOP OR GO POTTY, packaged with 250ml of UNICORN PEE PEE. Simply place, slash, sow and grow. Use the PEE PEE at the recommended dilution to activate the soil. Then use once per month as a booster and biological probiotic. It keeps biodynamic....biodynamic

HUMISOIL®

$55

What does HumiSoil® do?

High levels of Humic materials = carbon fixation and natural humus formation
Nitrogen fixation from air = reduced reliance on nutrient application
Mobilisation of phosphorus = higher, sustained available P
Promotes beneficial fungi = antibiotic, soil formation and nutrient transfer functions
Hydrosynthesis = manufacture of water via bacterial photosynthesis
Unlock soil nutrients
Use less water
Mobilise phosphorus

Soil benefits of HumiSoil®

A water reservoir – HumiSoil® contains bacteria which manufacture water.

Additionally, HumiSoil® fosters humus development in soil which in turn helps to absorb and store moisture.

HumiSoil® supports the development of naturally healthy soil. Healthy soil microbes have been linked with reduced pathogen and disease presence.

Key Notes:

This product is perfectly applicable to all growing media including garden beds, lawns, natives, herbs, veggies, roses etc
Application rate: Approximately 1kg to 1m2 – apply yearly or as frequently as desired.
This product meets the AS4454 Commercial Compost and is safe to use across any growing plot.
Do not plant seeds directly into HumiSoil®. For seed raising, mix HumiSoil® with sand or other soil and wait 2 week prior to planting seeds. Seedlings are safe to plant directly into.
HumiSoil® is created through the Groundswell® process, recycling organic materials such as vegetative & food waste, coffee, fish emulsion & manures.

XLR8 BIO®

$15

XLR8® Bio Liquid Soil Enhancement

Divert Landfill & Rebuild your Soil.

XLR8®Bio is a fermented soil probiotic and fertiliser will significantly:

improves soil health
restores the natural balance of microbes
enhances vitality and production of plants
builds resilience to pest & disease
increases plant yield and quality of fruit
is safe to be used liberally, everywhere

Made from fermented food waste with no other nasties, XLR8®Bio is derived from 100% natural ingredients and is suitable for organic and non-organic gardens. While originally created for the agricultural market, XLR8®Bio can be used in any environment and situation from Land Management Initiatives through to Horticulture and balcony gardens..

Uses include:

Lawn rejuvenation (builds moisture retention even in sandy soil!)
Natives
Veggies & herbs
Seedlings all the way up to perennials
Orchids
Pot plants
Indoor plants

Above all, with continued use of XLR8®Bio, we’re helping nature rebuild the natural biology in soil so plants, bacteria and microbes can live symbiotically, the way nature intended.

Improve soil structure
Use less fertiliser
Unlock soil nutrients
Use less water
Mobilise phosphorus

I acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which I live, work and play. I pay my respects to Elders past, present and future.

Stay dirty and hug a tree.

With respect