Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula
Episode 9: Planting for Tomorrow – Bare-rooted Trees & Books on Wheels
This week's episode of Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula celebrates two things that quietly shape our future: books and gardens.
Host Dennice begins by highlighting several exciting literary events taking place across the Mornington Peninsula before welcoming special guests Carolyn and David from Book Nest, an innovative mobile independent bookshop bringing books directly into local communities. Together they discuss the inspiration behind Book Nest, the joys of browsing physical books, how they select their collection, favourite customer stories, and the important role independent bookshops continue to play in connecting people through reading.
In the gardening segment, Dennice explores one of winter's greatest opportunities for gardeners--bare-rooted plants. Learn what bare-rooted stock is, why winter dormancy makes it the ideal time for planting, the many benefits of choosing bare-rooted trees, roses and fruit trees, where to find quality stock across the Mornington Peninsula, and expert advice on planting, watering and establishing healthy new plants.
The episode concludes with a thoughtful reflection on hope, patience and growth, reminding us that both books and gardens begin with faith in what they will one day become.
Join us for another inspiring conversation celebrating community, nature and lifelong learning on the Mornington Peninsula.
Host Dennice begins by highlighting several exciting literary events taking place across the Mornington Peninsula before welcoming special guests Carolyn and David from Book Nest, an innovative mobile independent bookshop bringing books directly into local communities. Together they discuss the inspiration behind Book Nest, the joys of browsing physical books, how they select their collection, favourite customer stories, and the important role independent bookshops continue to play in connecting people through reading.
In the gardening segment, Dennice explores one of winter's greatest opportunities for gardeners--bare-rooted plants. Learn what bare-rooted stock is, why winter dormancy makes it the ideal time for planting, the many benefits of choosing bare-rooted trees, roses and fruit trees, where to find quality stock across the Mornington Peninsula, and expert advice on planting, watering and establishing healthy new plants.
The episode concludes with a thoughtful reflection on hope, patience and growth, reminding us that both books and gardens begin with faith in what they will one day become.
Join us for another inspiring conversation celebrating community, nature and lifelong learning on the Mornington Peninsula.
episode #5 ACACIA CONVERSATIONS - WEEDS
Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula Episode - Weeds
This week on Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula, Dennice welcomes back respected horticulturist Robert Breeschoten for an informative discussion exploring one of gardening's most common challenges weeds.
Together they discuss what defines a weed, why certain plants appear, what weeds can reveal about soil health, and practical ways to manage them throughout winter in preparation for a healthy spring garden.
The episode opens with a friendly mention of the recently completed roundabout at Myers Road and Coolart Road in Bittern. Dennice congratulates Paul Mercurio MP, Member for Hastings, on the important road safety improvements while asking whether the landscaping could receive a little extra attention, with weeds already making an appearance around the new roundabout.
The episode also features Community Corner, highlighting the Bookneck Winter Parlour Series, along with information about the Victorian Government's Pick My Park community voting program and how locals can get involved.
A special acknowledgement is also given to Hannah Swinnerton, whose dedication behind the scenes helps support the production of Acacia Conversations. From coordinating content to assisting with the many behind-the-scenes tasks involved in community broadcasting, Hannah's ongoing commitment is greatly appreciated.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or just beginning your gardening journey, this episode is packed with practical advice, local knowledge and inspiration.
This week on Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula, Dennice welcomes back respected horticulturist Robert Breeschoten for an informative discussion exploring one of gardening's most common challenges weeds.
Together they discuss what defines a weed, why certain plants appear, what weeds can reveal about soil health, and practical ways to manage them throughout winter in preparation for a healthy spring garden.
The episode opens with a friendly mention of the recently completed roundabout at Myers Road and Coolart Road in Bittern. Dennice congratulates Paul Mercurio MP, Member for Hastings, on the important road safety improvements while asking whether the landscaping could receive a little extra attention, with weeds already making an appearance around the new roundabout.
The episode also features Community Corner, highlighting the Bookneck Winter Parlour Series, along with information about the Victorian Government's Pick My Park community voting program and how locals can get involved.
A special acknowledgement is also given to Hannah Swinnerton, whose dedication behind the scenes helps support the production of Acacia Conversations. From coordinating content to assisting with the many behind-the-scenes tasks involved in community broadcasting, Hannah's ongoing commitment is greatly appreciated.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or just beginning your gardening journey, this episode is packed with practical advice, local knowledge and inspiration.
Episode #4 ACACIA CONVERSATIONS - Our Winter Garden Guests
Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula
Winter is one of the most important times of year for our native wildlife. While many gardens appear to slow down, birds, possums, insects, frogs and other native animals are searching for food, shelter and safe places to call home.
In this episode, Dennice explores how gardeners can make a real difference by creating welcoming spaces for local wildlife. From installing nesting boxes and planting indigenous species to providing clean water and preserving natural habitat, even the simplest gardening choices can help support biodiversity across the Mornington Peninsula.
You'll also discover why mature trees and natural hollows are so valuable, learn practical tips for coexisting with possums, and hear five easy ways to create a healthier, wildlife-friendly garden.
This episode also highlights several beautiful local reserves worth exploring during winter, including Coolart Wetlands, Willum Warrain, Balbirooroo Wetlands, Devilbend Natural Features Reserve and The Briars.
Plus, find out how you can have your say through the Victorian Government's Pick My Park initiative by voting for your favourite local green space projects before 3 August 2026.
Join Dennice for another inspiring conversation celebrating gardening, community and the wonderful wildlife that shares our gardens.
Winter is one of the most important times of year for our native wildlife. While many gardens appear to slow down, birds, possums, insects, frogs and other native animals are searching for food, shelter and safe places to call home.
In this episode, Dennice explores how gardeners can make a real difference by creating welcoming spaces for local wildlife. From installing nesting boxes and planting indigenous species to providing clean water and preserving natural habitat, even the simplest gardening choices can help support biodiversity across the Mornington Peninsula.
You'll also discover why mature trees and natural hollows are so valuable, learn practical tips for coexisting with possums, and hear five easy ways to create a healthier, wildlife-friendly garden.
This episode also highlights several beautiful local reserves worth exploring during winter, including Coolart Wetlands, Willum Warrain, Balbirooroo Wetlands, Devilbend Natural Features Reserve and The Briars.
Plus, find out how you can have your say through the Victorian Government's Pick My Park initiative by voting for your favourite local green space projects before 3 August 2026.
Join Dennice for another inspiring conversation celebrating gardening, community and the wonderful wildlife that shares our gardens.
Episode #3 - Acacia Conversations | Growing the Winter Garden
Episode 3: Growing the Winter Garden Winter is often seen as a quieter season in the garden, yet it offers some of nature's most spectacular displays. In this episode of Acacia Conversations, Dennice welcomes Robert Breechschoten, President of Camellias Victoria, to explore the rich history of camellias, their journey from Asia to Australian gardens, and why they thrive so well on the Mornington Peninsula.
The conversation also explores the social side of gardening, highlighting how gardens create friendships, strengthen communities and support wellbeing. Listeners will also pick up practical winter gardening tips, including caring for citrus trees and preparing gardens for spring.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, this episode offers inspiration, practical advice and a reminder that the best gardens grow more than plants. They grow connection, patience and hope.
episode #2 - Acacia conversations growing well on the peninsula hosted by dennice breeschoten
There’s something about this time of year on the Peninsula.
The mornings get colder, the leaves begin to fall, and people naturally start slowing down a little 🍂
This week on Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula, we’re talking about community gardens, Indigenous plants, libraries, creativity, countryside films, and the quieter spaces that help people reconnect with themselves and each other.
Sometimes wellbeing isn’t about doing more.
Sometimes it’s sitting in a garden, sharing a conversation, planting something small, or simply feeling part of a community again.
Tune in for a gentle conversation about growing community, slowing down, and the simple things that still matter.
#RadioWesternPort #MorningtonPeninsula #Community #Wellbeing #Gardening #GrowingWell #AcaciaConversations #MentalHealth #Connection
The mornings get colder, the leaves begin to fall, and people naturally start slowing down a little 🍂
This week on Acacia Conversations – Growing Well on the Peninsula, we’re talking about community gardens, Indigenous plants, libraries, creativity, countryside films, and the quieter spaces that help people reconnect with themselves and each other.
Sometimes wellbeing isn’t about doing more.
Sometimes it’s sitting in a garden, sharing a conversation, planting something small, or simply feeling part of a community again.
Tune in for a gentle conversation about growing community, slowing down, and the simple things that still matter.
#RadioWesternPort #MorningtonPeninsula #Community #Wellbeing #Gardening #GrowingWell #AcaciaConversations #MentalHealth #Connection
episode #1 - Acacia conversations growing well on the peninsula hosted by dennice breeschoten
Acacia Conversations is a thoughtful new community radio programme on Radio Western Port hosted by Dennice Breeschoten.
Created for listeners looking for calmer and more meaningful conversations, the programme explores wellbeing, creativity, gardening, community connection, local stories, resilience, and personal growth across the Mornington Peninsula.
Episode 1 introduces the heart behind the show and reflects on the importance of slower conversations in a world that can often feel rushed and overwhelming.
Listeners are invited into a warm and reflective discussion about:
Acacia Conversations shines a light on ordinary people doing meaningful things every day.
The gardeners. The volunteers. The carers. The creatives.
The people rebuilding, reconnecting, and quietly helping their communities grow well.
Because sometimes the stories we almost miss are the ones we need most. 🌿
Acacia Conversations is a thoughtful new community radio programme on Radio Western Port hosted by Dennice Breeschoten.
Created for listeners looking for calmer and more meaningful conversations, the programme explores wellbeing, creativity, gardening, community connection, local stories, resilience, and personal growth across the Mornington Peninsula.
Episode 1 introduces the heart behind the show and reflects on the importance of slower conversations in a world that can often feel rushed and overwhelming.
Listeners are invited into a warm and reflective discussion about:
- wellbeing and healthy living
- gardening and nature
- community connection
- local people and projects
- creativity and books
- movement, resilience, and hope
Acacia Conversations shines a light on ordinary people doing meaningful things every day.
The gardeners. The volunteers. The carers. The creatives.
The people rebuilding, reconnecting, and quietly helping their communities grow well.
Because sometimes the stories we almost miss are the ones we need most. 🌿
Acacia Conversations Growing Well on the Peninsula
Welcome to Acacia Conversations, a thoughtful community radio programme on Radio Western Port exploring wellbeing, creativity, connection, and everyday life across the Mornington Peninsula.
Hosted by Dennice Breeschoten, the programme was created from a simple idea:
In a world that often feels rushed and noisy, there is still enormous value in slower conversations, local stories, meaningful connection, and the small everyday moments that help people grow well.
Each episode explores topics connected to:
- wellbeing and healthy living
- gardening and nature
- creativity and books
- local people and community projects
- connection and belonging
- movement and wellness
- resilience and personal growth
- volunteering and local events
- thoughtful conversations that inspire hope
At its heart, Acacia Conversations shines a light on the many people quietly doing meaningful things every day.
The gardeners tending life one season at a time 🌱
The volunteers showing up when nobody is watching.
The creatives turning ordinary moments into something beautiful.
The carers carrying compassion into hard places.
The people rebuilding their health, rediscovering purpose, or simply trying to live well in everyday life.
Because sometimes the most important stories are the ones we almost miss.
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