Hinterland farmers growing strong despite arson

Almost exactly five years ago, Sunshine Coast hinterland organic farmers Mick Dan and Kelly Burton lost their organic shop to an arson attack. But that tragedy turned to triumph last weekend with the business duo scooping a national and local business award within 24 hours.

The Good Harvest Organic Farm owners were finalists for four “Australia Organic Industry Awards” last Friday with Mick winning the coveted “Farmer of the Year”. 

Mick said he was honoured to be recognised by his peers in such a collaborative industry, but his win would not be possible without the support of his partner Kelly, daughter Alex and a strong team of employees.

“Our entire team at Good Harvest Organic Farm are proud to work in a value-based industry and provide healthy organic produce for their community,” he said.

“We also want to thank our Good Harvest customers and community for supporting us through the good times and the tough times - it truly is what inspires us to keep going and growing!

One night later Good Harvest won the Food and Agribusiness Category – Large Employer Award, at the Annual Sunshine Coast Business Awards. “We couldn’t believe it when we heard our name announced!” said Kelly. “It still feels like a dream! We are so truly honoured to be recognised amongst such an inspiring list of businesses, not just in our category, but across the many categories awarded,” she said. 

“When our shop was destroyed by fire over five years ago, we could not have imagined how much of a positive influence this could have on our purpose and direction.

“We also hope it will encourage other young farmers to get in there and give it a go! The organic farming community here on the Coast is so collaborative, and there is such a strong future for organic farming and food production.”

Kelly Burton and Mick Dan have fought back from disaster with two awards for their business, Good Harvest Organic Farm.