Shepparton

How did you come to be a grower?
My maternal grandfather and great grandfather were growers, and my father bought his first orchard in 1950, making me the 4th generation in the family line. It was just in the family. 

What’s the best part about being a grower?
There’s a sense of responsibility and satisfaction in growing a product that is healthy to eat, and watching the four seasons transform our orchards. There’s always something different to adapt to and changes that bring new challenges our way. It keeps things interesting and you never really stop learning or finding out new things, even when you thought you’ve seen it all.  

Why do you grow Apples and Pears?
Our district grows Packham, Bosc and William pears very well, along with Pink Lady, Sundowners and Granny Smith apples. Our family has been in the district since my great grandfather, so being able to produce the highest quality of fruits has been ingrained in us. Knowing that area is able to yield well in these fruits, we wanted to uphold the integrity of the apples and pears and make sure we produce something we can be proud of. 

Are you hoping to pass on the Business to your kids or grandkids?
Yes – if they want it. I have three children, two girls – Adelaide who is 16, Octavia who is 14 and one boy, Frederick who’s 12.  But I’d also like to see them get a qualification outside of the business as well. 

What has been your proudest achievement in your farming career?
My proudest achievement has been the ability to foster genuine relationships along the way with new people that we meet. Amongst them, some of the buyers of the apple and pears have made a really positive impact. The people we meet help us gain more knowledge in producing the types of apples and pears the Australian public want, which in turn, helps us to stay ahead of the game and be able to grow according to the market dynamics. 

People often think all fruits are created the same, but in reality, quality is hard to produce, can you tell us the hard work that goes behind the cultivation/Packing?
It’s the ability to always change and adapt accordingly to the changing environment and circumstances. Getting quality fruits to the consumers when there are so many factors that are beyond our control, and so many steps in the process – which if not properly managed can negatively impact the fruit – is hugely challenging. But this is what we signed up for, so it’s about being prepared and being able to anticipate what’s coming to be able to respond in a timely manner.