SIMON Brownbridge wants to share the stories of farmers who are doing things differently with Dungog News Of The Area readers.
Farmers just like him.
His entrepreneurial experiences as a baker and cattle producer, as well as his connections with other like-minded small-farm owners, have made him keen to learn about and tell their stories through an occasional column in Dungog NOTA.
Brownbridge and his wife, Loo Boothroyd, moved into the Fosterton Valley 24 years ago when they purchased the Byron dairy farm.
Today, Fosterton Biodynamic Farm and Bakery runs on organic and biodynamic principles.
Having trained as a baker, Brownbridge built a small bakery on the property, making specialised artisan sourdough breads and pastries they originally sold through local shops and farmers’ markets.
Loo now sells their baked goods from the Bread Van in Dungog on Saturday mornings.
Brownbridge knows that for every success among innovative landowners he’s encountered in the shire, there are failures.
“These recent years there’s been an influx of farmers trying to create extra income or simply wanting to reduce their use of artificial fertilisers and herbicides,” he said.
”Their efforts have captured my interest.The problem is that some have a crack, but found it’s too hard and gave it away.
“I know of half a dozen who’ve made a good go of it. I think their stories could inspire other small-farm owners to try to make their farms more profitable, or change the way they do things for the better.
“I’d also like to connect with the new generation of young farmers on older, more established properties who are trying different methods and new approaches to traditional farming.”
Brownbridge believes it’s important to acknowledge the broader community, including its farmers.
“We’re more than a tourist destination,” he said.
“A community should have balance, and this has always been a farming area.
“I’m interested in talking to anyone who’s trying new ideas on the land.”
Like to know more, or nominate someone you think is operating in an innovative way? Reach out to Simon Brownbridge at info@fostertonfarm.com.au
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
