May 7, 2022
So many of us romanticise about a “green change” but this husband-and-wife duo actually did it. The couple has purchased 23 acres in South Australia’s Adelaide Hills which is home to an apple orchard. With absolutely zero farming experience they somehow manage the farm entirely on their own. It’s not quite commercially viable yet so they do all of this whilst still nursing and raising a family. Anyone can come along to experience the magic that is @Lenswood because they’ve opened the farm gates to run a Pick Your Own experience. To learn more about how the model works, Emily Shipway explains.
- The front garden is Emily’s favourite place on their Apple Orchard.
- How Emily and her husband Chris, went from being ICU nurses to farmers.
- With 12,000 apple trees, they have 8 different varieties of apples on their farm.
- Their first day on the property and how they were able to establish themselves as farmers.
- Their family’s perception of farming when they made the career shift.
- A day in the life of Emily and some of the challenges.
- The newfound respect Emily has discovered as she has taken on the role of a farmer.
- As previously urban parents, they understand what the consumer wants in a farm experience and made it happen.
- Diversifying into accommodation, weddings and school trips.
- Emily’s top tips for growing and choosing a good apple.
- Donating to charity, juice, preserves and dehydration are all ways to use the ‘seconds’ from the orchard.
- The small town of Lenswood and how Emily and Chris have been accepted as legitimate farmers over time.
- Emily’s favourite thing about her new life on the land.
- The most common misconception is the hands-on involvement required.
- The ultimate dream for the future.
- Giving back to the community through ‘Ladies at Lenswood’
We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.
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Partnered with Australian Farmers