This is baby Gypsy. She is a black flying fox from Queensland. She is now 13 weeks old and has gone to bat creche to learn how to live with other baby bats. In a few weeks time, she and the others (including my Ziggy) will be released at the edge of an existing bat colony to rejoin their species. Gypsy lived with my family for 10 weeks, Ziggy for 12. They were fabulous creatures, but belong in the wild, and for that reason, we are glad to see them go.
Now however, I have another. 3 week old Shiraz came to live with us yesterday. She will be with us until she is ready to be released. She is tired and wary at present, but will settle soon and get used to the chaos of the chilli farm.
A less welcome visitor is the mealy bug, and its cousin, scale. So far, these little bugs have only invaded a few plants, which I have removed from the tunnel to try and stop the flow, before resorting to strongarm tactics. Soap and water is next, and then an organic pest oil. Fingers crossed! Another pest is the helioth grub, which is enjoying embedding itself in some of the bigger and more robust chillies. My solution? Cut off the affected fruit and dispose of it. Seems to be the most effective method for getting rid.
As for the big rains …. South East Queensland hasn’t looked this green in years. Unfortunately for some parts of the state however, the big rains have also meant big floods and many of our farmers out west are counting the cost in missing livestock. Current estimates are that 90% of the livestock in the affected area surrounding Emerald are simply missing. Tragedy indeed for the farmers, their families, and indeed for the animals that lost their lives in a most unexpected manner. We just hope that it has not all been in vain and that some of the moisture is retained and will have a positive impact on our environment.
The chillies however, have thrived on the hot steamy days, and the wet nights. They are up bigger and more beautiful than ever. Harvest is bountiful, and I will be at the school markets this coming Sunday morning laden with kilos of chillies. Hopefully some of you will get there.
Have to put in a plug for Rainbow Takeaway in Sandgate, north Brisbane. Dropped in yesterday for a spot of lunch and was impressed indeed! Michael and Marita also make a range of chilli sauces and I am thoroughly enjoying the fatali sauce he provided me with. They will have a stall set up at the Hot Sauce and Fiery Food Festival February 16 and 17 in Jindavik in Victoria (I am almost certain I have spelt that wrong). Many others will be there also, but unfortunately Lanacoora Chillies are not going to be able to make it this year. Look for Ol’ Man Stillmanz though.
I am going to be at the Beaudesert Wine and Food Festival at The Centre and adjacent park on Saturday 28 February. This is going to be a showcase event of Wine and food of the region and you are welcome to drop in and sample some fine fare, and some very hot chillies!