A copy of your passport and proof of your health insurance. This is required to register you as a volunteer with the local authorities, they are quite strict with this rule.

Tanju (My Turkish Architect) can provide all the details about travel etc. the best/cheapest and most convenient is catching the Denizli train from Izmir to Ortaklar. 

Link to my YouTube channel, from 2022

Tanju is my Turkish architect, who assists me (Herman) full time.

One of our volunteers, Amin from Iran just created a video from funny moments as you can see below:

Rules:

• Shower times, consider others and don’t spend more than 15min in the shower
• Clean shower glass, with the squeegee, drain hole (from hair) and floor after every time using the shower 
• No foodstuffs to be discarded in the basin in the bathroom or toilet
• Replenish the dispensing water bottle every time it is empty and place the empty bottle under the stairs
• Replenish toilet rolls when empty
• Wipe up any spilled water on the floor
• No Smoking on the premises
• Cleaning up kitchen/bathroom in own time
• After every meal the kitchen and gazebo work surfaces needs to be clean with no cups cutlery etc standing around
• When wanting to use the bicycles helmets are mandatory and the bike should be inspected and ensure that everything is in working order, any breakages will be the responsibility of the Workawayer to repair at their own cost. Bikes to be washed and lubricated every time it is used.
• Not wearing shoes in the house. Store shoes in the cupboard provided at the top of the steps
• When eating utensils, pots cups etc are used wash them in the outside sink area after every use
• Anti-social behaviour is not permitted, including Music type and volume
• No visitors allowed in the house unless first discussed
• No political statements or controversial discussions are to be made on the premises 
• Respect to be shown for all residents and public
• After working all tools and equipment to be stored in the correct places in the workshop at the end of each working day
• The day you leave please ensure that all bedding is washed and hanged out to dry
• If you use any of the bicycles, and you damage it then you are responsible to replace or repair it before you leave
• All health and safety rules are to be strictly adhered to
• You will be shown the location of fire extinguishers 
• Always wear gloves and eye protection when you are working
• Wear a hard hat if you have someone working at height above you
• Use the safety harnesses provided if you climb above 2m
• Always wear welding helmet, leather gloves and a leather apron when welding
• Please bring your own insect repellent with you and use it regularly 
• Always close the fly screens to ensure no infestation of mosquitoes or flies
• Please be aware where the first aid kit is located
• If you have any concerns, comments or suggestions to make about the project please don’t hesitate to speak up
• Please when using a ladder that you do it safely
• Local contact numbers in case of:
• Fire, Medical emergencies (Ambulance), Police (Jandarme). 
• Accident forms 
• Suggestion Boxes

Kerpic Farm: Welcome Pack 

Contents 

1. Welcome Statement 
2. Community Guidelines 
3. Basic Information Form
4. Data Protection Form  

Welcome to Kerpic Farm 

**

2.Community Guidelines for Work-away travellers at Kerpic Farm 

Welcome to Kerpic Farm, a space designed for work-away travellers seeking creativity, education and community! We aim to create an inclusive, respectful, and peaceful environment that nurtures well-being, creativity, and personal growth. Please take a moment to review our guidelines so that all members of the community can enjoy a harmonious experience.

Community Values

At the core of our retreat is the belief in fostering a supportive, respectful, and uplifting community. Whether you’re here for a new experience, nature, art, reflection, or simply some time away, we expect all members to embrace the following principles:

Respect & Kindness: Treat everyone with dignity, respect, and kindness. Be mindful of personal boundaries and diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and creative practices.

Collaboration & Openness: This is a shared space; collaborative spirit is encouraged. Engage with others openly, share your ideas, and participate in group and creative activities while being considerate of others’ individual space.

Inclusivity: We embrace diversity. Our retreat is a safe space for all genders, nationalities, religions, and creative expressions. Do not incite unhelpful dynamics with the use controversial political statements or discussions. 

Personal Responsibility: Take responsibility for your actions and how they impact the community. This includes respecting communal areas, being mindful of noise levels, and cleaning up after yourself.

What to Bring

• A copy of your passport – to register as a volunteer with the local authorities 
• A copy of your health insurance – to register as a volunteer with the local authorities
• Insect repellant and please use it regularly
• Clothing

How to Get Here and First Steps

The easiest way to get to us is by using the Denizili Train from Izmir to Ortaklar.  You will then be picked up from the station, given your weekly food budget and taken to the local supermarket to buy supplies. You will then be taken to Derekoy. 

Well-Being, Work, Leisure and Expectations

Building Projects and Activities: In the construction of Kerpic Farm as an art retreat and well-being centre, we currently offer a range of eco building opportunities.

We aim to provide an unique, enjoyable and fun experience, but as stated in the title, a ‘workaway’ isn’t just a holiday and we do expect….. **

Balance Work and Rest: Working hours on the farm are between ** Breaks are set to ** Please be mindful of the conditions you are working in and take regular breaks and  appropriately hydrate during extremes of hot weather. There are designated quiet areas where you can relax and take a break. Please understand working hours do not include cleaning up after yourself in the kitchen and bathroom.

Eating Times and Food: We offer a communal kitchen ** where your food is kept and where everyone can prepare meals. Please be mindful of shared dietary needs and clean up after yourself in your own time. We provide a weekly trip to the local village to pick up any supplies……. ** Food allowance is 1800TL for singles and 2800 for couples. 

Bedrooms: Please ensure your bedding is washed and hung out to dry on your departure day. Swapping bedrooms is not permitted. **

Showering: Please ensure showering time is kept to 15 minutes per person due to the number of residents and due to the size of our water tank

Laundry: Bedding to be washed once a week.

There is a washing machine available for all to use. Wash lines are available 

Respect for Nature and its Boundaries: We are situated in a natural setting. Treat the environment with respect, avoid littering, and be mindful of water and energy usage. Please close the fly screens to ensure no infestations of mosquitos or flies.

Respect for the Local Area: Any culture, tradition etc ** 

Local places to visit: **

Quiet Hours: To support rest and reflection, quiet hours are observed from 10.00 PM to 7.00 AM. Please be mindful of noise levels during these hours.

Bicycles: If you use any of the bicycles and damage them, you will be responsible to replace, repair or pay for the damage before you leave

Tools: Please return working tools and equipment to its correct place in the workshop

Our animals:  Two Dogs (Kerpic, Zeytin), 5 Ducks

Physical Layout

*Diagram*

 The property has been carefully designed to offer an inspiring, yet functional environment for both creativity and relaxation. To ensure everyone can enjoy the space:

Private vs. Communal Spaces: Certain areas are designated as private living quarters, while others are communal workspaces and relaxation zones. Please respect others’ privacy and use communal spaces with care.

Studios & Workspaces: Art studios are communal spaces where you can work on your projects. Keep your work area organised, and store your materials in designated spaces to keep shared areas clutter-free.

Outdoor Spaces: Feel free to use outdoor spaces for reflection, relaxation, or creativity. However, ensure that any outdoor tools, equipment, or materials are returned to their proper place after use.

The Cottage: Pleasedonot enter the cottage unless permission has been granted. ** 

Health & Safety

The well-being and safety of all retreat members are of utmost importance. To maintain a safe environment:

Emergency Procedures: In the case of any emergency, medical or otherwise, alert a member of the team immediately. Emergency contacts and procedures will be provided upon your arrival.

First Aid: A first aid kit is available in the ** Staff members are trained in basic first aid.

Fire Safety: Familiarise yourself with the exits, evacuation plan and fire meeting place upon arrival. Smoking is not permitted on site, and open flames (candles, bonfires) are not allowed indoors. The fire extinguishers will be shown to you on arrival. **

Security: While we aim to create a relaxed and trusting environment, please lock your personal items in **  when leaving your space unattended. The property has security measures in place, but we recommend you exercise personal vigilance. We are not responsible for the loss or theft of any personal items. 

PPE: All PPE equipment will be provided.

• Always wear gloves and eye protection when you are working. 
• Wear a hard hat if you are working at height. 
• Use the safety harness provided if you are at a height above 2 metres
• Wear a welding helmet and leather gloves when welding 
• Do not engage in activities that are above your skill set and/or you do not have the physical ability

Accident Forms: If you do have an accident, an injury or even a near miss, please fill out an accident form that can be found in…

The Team and Who to Talk to About Concerns

Herman Jansen van Vuuren

Herman is the owner and founder of Kerpic Farm. Herman is currently in the UK having recently had a a knee replacement but will return in October for a week and January for three weeks a month. Herman is available on WhatsApp and….

Tanju Derin (+90 554 144 63 47)

Tanju is the architect and work away co-ordinator and manages the project when Herman is off site. 

Kerpic 

Kerpic is our farm dog and was born on the property….. ** 

Zeytin

She was a stray dog that came on the day we moved onto the property and made herself at home on the farm

We want you to feel comfortable addressing any concerns you might have during your stay. Please reach out to Herman or Tanju if you need any assistance. 

We are committed to addressing all concerns promptly and fairly. Your feedback is crucial to maintaining a healthy, enjoyable work-away experience and we want to hear from you. If you do have any concerns or need to make a complaint please contact Herman on and we will do our very best to resolve any issues you may have.

If you don’t want to speak to us and it is not an emergency please leave any helpful suggestions in our suggestion box. 

General Conduct & Behaviour Expectations

Our retreat is a safe haven for creativity, learning and community, and as such, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy for anti-social behaviour. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Harassment, discrimination, or aggressive behaviour of any kind
• Excessive noise, disruptive behaviour, or disrespect toward other members and animals
• Substance abuse that affects the community. Smoking and illegal drug use is not permitted on the property
• Wilful damage or disrespect to property and facilities 

Any violation of these rules will result in immediate action, including the possibility of being asked to leave the farm immediately without recourse.

Signing the Guidelines

To ensure that everyone is aware of and agrees to these guidelines, we require all visitors to sign a copy upon arrival. Your signature indicates that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by these expectations during your stay.

We are excited to welcome you to our farm. We believe that by following these guidelines, everyone can enjoy a peaceful, inspiring, and enriching experience. Should you have any questions or require assistance at any time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

Together, we can create a vibrant, educational, harmonious community where creativity and well-being flourish. We look forward to spending time with you on your work-away adventure! P asvebtuteoutinesoending

Signature:___________________________________                 Date:__________________

Useful Numbers ** 

Police 

Fire

Ambulance 

Herman 

Tanju

Local restaurant?

Taxi

Helpful Turkish Statements

**

Do parts therapy training 

Who 

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