From the first day of sales producing five bags of macadamia muesli to today producing over 21 tons of product a week, Pam and Martin Brook of Brookfarm in Byron Bay, NSW could not have envisaged back then how their story would unfold. Marketing manager Tina Kelly shared their journey with us.
What is your company background, how did you start the business?
“Back in 1988, the Brooks purchased 35 hectares of land minutes from the surfing town of Byron Bay in NSW, Australia. The rundown dairy farm was cleared of boulders and weed trees and 4500 macadamias were planted. On the steeper slopes and banks of a small river 30,000 sub-tropical rainforest trees and eucalypts were planted. They continue to plant 10,000 rainforest trees each year as a testament to the their overall commitment to the environment and rainforest regeneration. The farm is a flora and fauna haven and still an integral part of the business.
In late 2000 Pam and Martin began selling their first Toasted Macadamia Muesli at the local Bangalow Markets. The macadamia nuts came from their farm on the hill overlooking Byron Bay and the muesli was blended and baked in the farm kitchen.”
What are the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
“Today Brookfarm employs 43 locals in Byron Bay in their purpose built bake house. The Brookfarm range now includes muesli including the toasted muesli first sold at the markets, porridges, granolas, muesli bars, fruit and nut snacks and cold pressed macadamia oils. There are gluten-free options in the muesli and granola range as well as two gluten-free bars. Unlike many other food manufacturers, especially breakfast cereals, every part of the range is still made by Brookfarm and every product is still created by Pam Brook, co-founder of Brookfarm.
The company now supplies airlines, hotels, independent supermarkets, luxury trains, cruise ships, parliaments, convention centres and resorts, both in Australia and New Zealand and exports to the USA, Europe and south-east Asia.”
Has there been any recent company news?
“In 2015 Brookfarm proudly accepted the NSW Premiers Award for Environmental Excellence for its commitment to sustainable processing operations. This was the Award’s highest commendation. Brookfarm has 288 solar panels, it saves 160 kilolitres of water a year through recycling rainwater, and has planted more than 30,000 rainforest trees which have collectively stored over 2310 tonnes of carbon. This is in addition to the company also achieving Silver status for its on-going sustainability practices.”
What are the plans for the business moving forward, is there any expansion on the horizon?
“As demand for high quality, exceptional ingredients and fantastic tasting products continue to drive the discerning consumer then so too will Brookfarm continue to develop, expand and deliver.”
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability? If so, where would you like to see the product situated?
“Brookfarm products can be found in gourmet delicatessens, independent supermarkets and upmarket fruit and vegetable shops. Brookfarm makes a point about supporting the independent retailer. For further enquiries in New Zealand, please contact Three Fountains on 09 575 2630.”
