Three years ago April established Wild Temple Naturals a collection of mainly perfumes and soaps incorporating flowers and herbs grown in her abundant Forster garden.

"It started as a way to be creative with what we grow in our little urban oasis; it was a way of having a creative outlet where I can experiment and share with everybody," April said.

From time to time April experiments with 'one-off' products using her skills to create healing balms, traditional body powder, incense and bath melts.

During the first lockdown April added a hand sanitiser to her collection.

Made from locally grown aloe vera gel, the product is enhanced with lavender, lemon myrtle and tea tree essential oils, which have been selected for antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.

Organically grown loofahs complement the range.

"I was also interested in how to extract fragrances; smells trigger memories, which is a powerful thing."

April's permaculture vegetable, herb and flower garden is a paradise for the olfactory senses of sweet smelling roses, rose geraniums, rosemary, kaffir lime, orange blossom and patchouli.

Production of her range is based on the seasons and abundance.

"My philosophy is that I only make what I can incorporate from my backyard garden."

An abundance of calendula is being used in the production of a healing balm, which April said was also ideal for treating eczema.

All her products are mixed with organically produced essential oils, wax, resins and gums.

And, local where possible, April said.

Small batches of perfumes are made at a time and placed into 30ml bottles.

Mainly self taught, April has also refined her perfume making skills undertaking a handful of small classes.

"There is a bit of chemistry involved , but everything seems to come together; there's a bit of trial and error.'

April liken her craft to painting, but with fragrances.

"It is interesting; I have always loved natural products."

April returned to Forster with her young family and partner Joel after completing an environmental science degree in Lismore and travels across the globe nearly two decades ago.

Today, April works in natural resource management and environmental education.

A keen green thumb, April 'always' had what she described as wild and productive gardens based on permaculture principles.

"I love gardening and love working with plants; it is very grounding."

She said her home business gave her the opportunity to be creative by experimenting turning something into something else, and then share the end product.

I believe in a simple, natural and genuine approach to all aspects of my business. My packaging is simple, recyclable, upcycled, re-usable and refillable. I'm always looking for ways to improve my products without increasing my footprint.

You can find April's products for sale on her Wild Temple Naturals website, Plunge Forster and during the Great Lakes Food Trail.

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