Having grown up on the family farm, Kyan Sansom’s love for agriculture started at a very young age. Over the years that passion has continued to grow and today, Kyan and his partner, Georgia, run Organic Seeds Australia – one of the largest ranges of certified organic vegetable, herb and flower seeds in the country.
‘Growing up with agriculture being such a major part of my life has allowed me to see the impact different types of farming have on the health of people and the environment,’ Kyan says. ‘For me, there is a duty of care to people and the planet that can be achieved through good farming practices. That is what motivates me to farm and it gives me a real sense of purpose.
Kyan’s father, Luke, has been growing organic seedlings in Tintenbar and supplying local farmers and market gardeners for almost 20 years. While Kyan has always helped out on the farm, five years ago he saw a business opportunity.
‘Back in 2020 we saw a resurgence in people wanting to grow their own food from home, so I began growing seedlings for home gardeners and selling them at the farmers’ markets. A few years later, I started my own business – Organic Seeds Australia.’
‘We have one of the largest ranges of certified seed in the country and this is thanks to the seed production we help coordinate within Australia. Australia’s biosecurity laws make it impossible to import certified organic seed for a number of important vegetables.
‘In the past this has meant that the availability of certified organic seed has been extremely limited. The only way around this was to produce the seed here in Australia on certified farms and that is what we’ve done.’
This is good news for a number of reasons, Kyan explains: ‘Looking at the bigger picture, food starts with seeds and seeds are ultimately what feed us and our livestock. The majority of the world’s seed supply is owned by just a few companies and it’s these companies that control the food supply.‘
‘In order for independent organic farming to continue on a long-term basis, organic seeds need to be made available and that’s what Organic Seeds Australia has achieved. Through this work we are supporting a better form of agriculture, and ensuring healthy food continues to be produced into the future. For me that is very rewarding.’
And lucky for us, this wide range of amazing seeds is available at Byron Farmers Market every Thursday morning, along with a variety of seedlings. Kyan is also great for planting and growing tips!
Byron Farmers Market is held every Thursday from 7am to 11am at Butler St Reserve and Bangalow Farmers Market is held every Saturday from 7am to 11am in Piccabeen Park.
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