KEEN EYE ON THEIR FUTURE
JAMIE Jurgen’s German ancestors settled in Bowen 103 years ago, and since 1915 every generation in his family has maintained that same farm.
They were attracted to the mild winters and tropical summers and began planting small crops including tomatoes, pumpkins and beans.
To maintain the family tradition and keep his farm sustainable for future generations, Jamie made the transition from using chemicals.
“We’re trying to get longevity for the farms over the next five generations and we see organics as making the land more sustainable as part of that journey,” he said.
“We don’t use chemical inputs, only natural fertilisers and insect controls. While on track to a more sustainable business we also found the more natural we were the better results we yielded.”
Jamie said he was confident to rebrand in the market because of a growing demand for organic produce.
“I think there’s an increase in people who want to know how their food is produced and for businesses to be able to consistently supply organic produce,” he said.
Jamie has been married for 23 years and has two children with his wife Meli- ta, who he met while studying at university.
His children are studying agribusiness at university.
“They’re keen for the opportunities that agriculture will give them,” he said.
“Today’s farmer has to be skilled. You can’t just plant something in the ground and pray for the best.
“There’s a lot of planning, business positioning and marketing that goes into it. And the degree is a form of upskilling themselves to handle that.”
Jamie attributed his happy and long marriage with his wife to shared dreams and passions. “She also had a farming background and we both enjoy similar interests,” he said.