Mushroom Compost Masterclass - with Mark den Ouden
Facilitated by the AMGA, this Mushroom Compost Masterclass is a bespoke professional development opportunity specifically designed for experienced Australian Agaricus bisporus compost producers or growers, or industry researchers who have practical experience with mushroom substrate research.
The masterclass will be facilitated by Mark den Ouden from The Mushroom Office, located in The Netherlands. With more than 40 years of experience, Mark specialises in helping mushroom growers to improve their composting and production processes. Since 2010, he has been providing advisory services to compost facilities and mushroom farms, in addition to delivering courses and lectures to mushroom industry professionals.
WHAT DOES THE COURSE COVER?
The Mushroom Compost Masterclass is comprised of both online learning modules (to be completed before the study tour) and five days of intensive in-person workshops conducted in Venlo, southern Netherlands, with guided tours of four compost facilities in Holland, Belgium and Germany.
This bespoke Mushroom Compost Masterclass study program includes:
July to September 2025: Online course
Participants will complete six online e-learning modules in their own time and at their own pace. The modules cover the following topics:
- Phase 1: Raw Materials
- Phase 1: Pre-mix and Pre-wetting
- Phase 1: Caramelisation
- Phase 2: Pasteurisation and Conditioning
- Phase 2: Spawning
- Phase 3: Incubation
6 – 10 October 2025: International Study Tour to the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium
Participants will be based in Venlo in the Netherlands for an immersive five-day study tour. Mark’s classroom learning sessions will go into more depth about all aspects of compost production including recipes, NIR analysis, biological processes, climate control, spawning, and hygiene.
This will be complemented by guided site visits to:
LIMITED SPACES. HURRY, BOOK NOW!
How much does the Masterclass cost?
Up to eight self-funded places are available on a first-come, first served basis.
The registration fee provides access to the e-learning modules and participation in the five-day international study tour including lunch each day and transport to/from Venlo for farm site visits.
Mushroom Compost Masterclass
$3,200 AUD
Please note: All other bookings and associated travel, accommodation and meal costs are the responsibility of each attendee.
How do I register to attend?
To express interest in a self-funded place, email AMGA RD&E Manager Dr Carly Rosewarne. Carly will provide further details including payment instructions.
Please note: As limited spaces are available, your registration will not be secured until the payment has been received.
GOT QUESTIONS?
For more information contact:
Dr. Carly Rosewarne, AMGA R&D Manager
0437276293 | carly.rosewarne@amga.asn.au
MUSHROOM COMPOST MASTERCLASS
DELEGATE ITINERARY
DATE |
TIME |
ACTIVITY |
VENUE |
| Sun 5 Oct, 2025 | Delegates arrive in Venlo. | Travel and accomodation at own expense | |
| Mon 6 Oct, 2025 | 07:00 - 09:00 | Breakfast. Depart for workshop venue. |
Breakfast at own expense. Transport included from Theatre Hotel to Workshop venue |
| 10:00 - 12:30 |
Opening of the course and briefing on the program. TOPIC: Raw Materials |
Workshop Venue TBC | |
| 12:30 - 13:30 | Lunch | Lunch included | |
| 13:30 - 17:30 | Visit compost yard | CNC Milsbeeek | |
| 19:00 - 21:30 | Welcome Dinner - social program | Dinner included. Location TBC | |
| Tues 7 Oct, 2025 | 07:00 - 08:00 | Breakfast. Depart for workshop venue |
Breakfast at own expense. Transport included from Theatre Hotel to Workshop venue |
| 09:00 - 12:00 |
Different compost recipies
|
Workshop Venue TBC | |
| 12:30 - 13:30 | Lunch | Lunch provided | |
| 13:00 - 17:30 | Visit Compost Yard | Hooymans Substrates, Velddriel | |
| 19:00 - 21:30 | Dinner | At own expense - location TBC | |
| Wed 8 Oct, 2025 |
05:30 - 09:00 | Travelling to Germany | Transport included |
| 09:00 - 12:30 | Visit Compost Yard | Mjko. Emstek, Germany | |
| 12:30 - 13:30 | Lunch | Lunch provided | |
| 13:30 - 15:00 | Visit Mushroom Farm | Mjko. Emstek, Germany | |
| 15:00 - 18:30 | Travelling to Venlo | Transport included | |
| 19:00 - 21:30 | Dinner | At own expense - location TBC | |
| Thurs 9 Oct, 2025 |
07:00 - 08:30 | Breakfast. Depart for workshop venue. |
Breakfast at own expense. Transport included from Theatre Hotel to Workshop venue |
| 09:00 - 12:00 |
TOPICS: Basics of Mollier diagram and climate control
|
Workshop Venue TBC | |
| 12:30 - 13:30 | Lunch | Lunch provided | |
| 13:30 - 17:30 | Visit Compost Yard | Walkro, Maasmechelen Belgium | |
| 19:00 - 21:30 | Dinner | At own expense - location TBC | |
| Fri 10 Oct, 2025 |
07:00 - 08:30 | Breakfast. Depart for workshop venue. |
Breakfast at own expense. Transport included from Theatre Hotel to Workshop venue |
|
09:00 - 10:30 10:30 - 12:30 |
TOPICS: Hygiene, Pests and Diseases Phase 3: spawn run in a tunnel |
Workshop Venue TBC | |
| 12:30 - 13:30 | Lunch | Lunch provided | |
| 13:30 - 15:00 | TOPIC: Mushroom Growing | Workshop Venue TBC | |
| 15:00 - 16:00 | Closing session | End of program. |
* Itinerary may change at organisers discretion
Participant Disclaimer – Insurance Responsibility:
By registering for and participating in this training event, you acknowledge and agree that it is your responsibility to ensure you have adequate insurance coverage, as required by your employer. This includes, but is not limited to, coverage for personal injury, liability, and any other risks associated with your travel and participation in this event. The organizers, facilitators, and affiliated parties of this training accept no liability for any loss, damage, injury, or expenses incurred as a result of your participation. Your employer is responsible for ensuring that you are appropriately insured for this activity. By attending, you confirm that you have verified your insurance coverage with your employer and accept full responsibility for any associated risks. If you have any questions regarding insurance requirements, please consult your employer before attending.