DOMESTIC violence happens in homes all over Australia and in all classes of society, and the Bega Valley is no exception as has been horrendously highlighted in the past week.

Five years into the war in Iraq, publishers are turning out novels, first-person accounts of battle, advice guides to returning soldiers and their families, and even children's books about coping with war.

'Benefits and Secrets of the Herb Garden'— 9 a.m. Saturday. Ellen Zimmerman, owner of EZ Herbs and the Austin School of Herbal Studies, offers advice about growing herbs and using them. The Natural Gardener, 8648 Old Bee Cave Road. Free. 288-6114, www

MOUNT OLIVE -- Sharon Staszak's advice on being a great teacher is simple. "Let your students know you care and focus on their positives instead of their negatives," Staszak said one recent afternoon.

Concerned that despite all the focus on sustainability there is a lack of “how to” advice for organisations wanting to turn actions into words, a ground breaking How to Host Sustainable Events tool kit is being created in Wellington.