About 14 years ago, Eddie and Sue Smith decided to tackle a plantation despite having no prior experience. Eddie had worked in transport, including aviation, for most of his life and sought a change. Having been brought up on a farm, he knew he liked the farming life. On the day they bought the plantation, Eddie was horrified at the decision but remains there to this day. Born in Carnarvon, he gradually found his way back to the area.
They bought the plantation for specific reasons: it was on the main road just 5km from the town center, ensuring accessibility even during floods; and it was a tree crop. Eddie, with his back condition, couldn't handle heavy bananas or ground crops, making mangoes the perfect choice. Additionally, they both loved eating mangoes.
Their lack of prior knowledge proved beneficial as they approached the venture with an open mind and no fear of trying new things. They were willing to make changes as necessary.
Being food producers is extremely satisfying for them, especially now that they’ve reached the point where they’ve replaced trees with ones they’ve grown themselves, making it entirely their own product. They have loyal customers who return year after year for the same mangoes, with one customer even coming up from Perth annually to buy a dozen trays.
Eddie finds the work incredibly satisfying, likening it to playing in a big garden rather than working. Their focus is on producing one crop really well and constantly improving their tree-growing methods. They are starting a tree replacement program, with older trees being replaced by new ones.
Contact Details
Eddie & Sue Smith
0419 041 723
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