THE GARDEN ESTATE was initiated by Anne and Suresh Dittrich.
We are deeply convinced that organic farming is the only sustainable way to feed the world's population. As Buddhists, parents, responsible humans we cannot be part of the destruction and poisoning that conventional farming brings to the environment.
Besides we feel challenged to bring the knowledge of organic farming methods back to the Sri Lankan people, that got lost within just one generation.
Our hearts and interest are with the most honest and basic kind of work – producing nourishing foods. Our jobs in the renewable energy sector (wind energy), which we love as well enable us to fund this project at the moment completely privately.
Whilst we live in Europe there are people on THE GARDEN ESTATE helping us to turn the bare land into an edible garden:
Nilantha Fernando (42), his wife Chamerie with daughters Ruwangi and Umindi and aunt Mary Elizabeth – managing all affairs of THE GARDEN ESTATE in close contact with Anne and Suresh.
Nilantha Fernando (42), his wife Chamerie with daughters Ruwangi and Umindi and aunt Mary Elizabeth – managing all affairs of THE GARDEN ESTATE in close contact with Anne and Suresh.
Nilantha worked as a conventional farmer on the Kalpitiya peninsular before he joined THE GARDEN ESTATE. It was quite a mission to convince him of organic farming, but he learned a lot over the last few years about compost, natural pest control methods and ecology.
The family leeds a very basic lifestyle, they are Buddhists. Chamerie cooks lovely, Ruwangi is doing very well at school, especially in Maths and Umindi loves to dress up.
We are surrounded by friends and family around the world, who follow our vision, share the same values as well as support and encourage us with ideas, practical help and advice.
THE GARDEN ESTATE still has a long way to go, so we are more than happy about any possible support – be it advice, funding or helping hands for example as a WWOOFer. Please get in touch!