Victoria is famous for its organic dairy, eggs, fruit and wine. Organic producers love the state’s milder, more European climate, ideal for livestock, orchards and vineyards.
The Goulburn Valley region stretches from central Victoria right up to the banks of the Murray River, and includes the townships of Seymour, Shepparton and Eucha.
A short 1-2 hour drive North of Melbourne, the Goulburn Valley is a historic wine destination, with century-old wineries making their mark in the region. Melburnians love whisking themselves to a weekend away to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and find serenity amongst the numerous vineyards, orchards and farms.
This Australian Organic Awareness Month, Australian Organic Limited (AOL) is encouraging Aussies to ‘swap’ in one certified organic product this month.
Are you a Victorian? If so, why learn more about these local organic producers and find out where you can taste some of the best local organic produce on offer.
While most organic farms do not allow visitors, some businesses have an onsite farm shop, cafe or wine cellar allowing you to try fresh organic produce first hand. Always check on the company’s website before you plan your visit.
Located just north of Bendigo, Avonmore Estate came to life in 1996 when farmers Rob and Pauline Bryans turned their hands to viticulture and began planting Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon vines on the property. Continuing to farm using bio-dynamic methods, Avonmore Estate wines carry Demeter certification and the farm is proudly carbon neutral. Follow Avonmore Estate on Facebook to find them at your local farmers’ markets in Victoria.
Jalna is a true Aussie business that began when the McLaren family purchased a small Victorian dairy farm over 40 years ago. These days, Jalna focuses on creating its high standard, pure pot set yoghurts including their Farm to Pot Organic range made with milk from certified organic Australian dairy farms.
Located in central Victoria, Pogue Vineyard is a certified organic property that specialises in producing high-quality vegan and certified organic wine. The property originally consisted of premium fruit orchards when it was operated by the Pogue family, before being purchased by professional vintners to produce premium quality wine.
Based out of Maldon, Southern Light Herbs grows a range of premium organic herbs together with a network of over 30 certified organic growers throughout Eastern Australia. For over 30 years, Southern Light Herbs has farmed organically to distribute a diverse range of premium Australian quality organic teas, medicinal and culinary herbs within the health food, wholefood and natural therapies sectors.
Tahbilk Winery in central Victoria was established in 1860 and is one of Australia’s most historic family-owned wineries. Purchased by the Purbrick family in 1925, Tahbilk is home to five generations and prides itself on producing fine wines. A short 90-minute drive from Melbourne, visit the Tahbilk cellar door and restaurant to taste a sample of their certified organic wine range and the best seasonal produce the region has to offer.
View more Taste of Your Region maps here.
*Locations not open to visitors. Check individual company websites for more information.
The Bud Organic Club is an initiative launched by Australian Organic Ltd (AOL) in 2012 to drive consumer awareness around certified organics in Australia.