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Location: Les and Jan live on 100 acres of hill country just outside Bairnsdale in Victoria. They have been growing organically for 12 years and were one of the first N.A.S.A.A. certified growers.
History: When Les and Jan brought the farm it was one of the worst in the area, with tussock and blackberries covering most of the infertile land. Les remembers looking over the property in the early days and seeing the hills moving with rabbits. Now it’s one of the most productive and fertile farms in the area. The soil is loamy which means it is excellent for growing the types of crops he supplies.
Products: Broccoli, potato, and snow peas are the main products grown, along with a small amount of beans and zucchini. Les and Jan are also kept busy with 80 head of organic beef cattle, which they plan to market in the coming months.
Efficiency: Becoming more mechanised has made life easier for Les and Jan. For example, a new irrigation system makes watering much less labour intensive. “Over the years our three kids have been a great help around the farm,” said Les. “Only one of our children still lives at home, so becoming more efficient has been a necessity.”
Sustainability: Les and Jan employ a variety of crop rotation programs. A block of land used to grow broccoli, potato, and or snow peas is rotated with a green manure crop such as oats or legumes. Once a crop is finished the cattle are put in the area for a short period of time before the remaining vegetation is ploughed into the ground. The cattle also help to keep the weeds at bay. Approved organic sprays are only used two or three times a year with a product called Dipel being used to control caterpillars.
Quality Produce: Les and Jan strive to supply top quality produce, which has been proven with the demand for their broccoli, potatoes, snow peas, and beans.
Dear Customer,
We trust you enjoy the flavour and the nutritional benefits of our produce.
Always insist on the Rogers brand when buying broccoli, potatoes, snow peas, and beans.
Growing organically: Here today, here tomorrow.
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