Afterlee Ecovillage Project was created in 2021 to meet the growing demand for affordable, community-based living, especially for those unable to find existing options in the Northern Rivers.

The first step in the process was selecting a suitable site, focusing on key criteria such as accessibility, water availability, and compliance with planning regulations. The second phase involved forming the Healthy Living Co-operative, a process that took over nine months and was the first Landsharing co-op approved in Australia under new commonwealth legalisation. With a small but dedicated group of people serving as the co-operative’s first board, the Afterlee Ecovillage Project officially came to life in September 2022.

Attracting the first round of members for the project was accomplished through various channels. Central to the project’s philosophy is what Shane calls a “community-owned and informed” approach, where members of the co-operative own the land and assets while contributing to the design and development of their village. Although the initial town planning, management, and final design are handled by experienced professionals from PRC, the co-operative members have actively participated through a series of workshops focused on ecovillage design and site-specific issues at Afterlee.

As the co-operative matures, member involvement continues to grow, with an increasing focus on skill development among the board and members in managing the ecovillage. PRC remains involved only in the initial phases, providing professional expertise on a limited contract basis until the project is at a stage where it can be self-managed by the co-operative.

Our Directors’ Skills

Research, policy, writing and media skills. Not too bad with small domestic and native animals and dog training as well.

An educator spanning two continents, the academic and corporate worlds and content from IT to sexuality. Skills include effective communication, word crafting, solving problems, out of the box thinking, holding space and making people laugh.

Over 15 years of experience in information and communication technologies. Skilled in data collation, event organisation, community building, and effective interviewing.

Growing, cooking, preserving and storing food.

Reflective listening, asking good questions, considering multiple perspectives, empathy.

Embodiment of being present, compassionate listening, reflection, playfulness and following intuitive cues.

Architect skilled in crafting sustainable and site-responsive designs for residential, commercial, and masterplan projects. Creating human spaces that contribute to a regenerative future for all, by prioritising circular design principles and fostering a deep connection to the local landscape.