Reflecting on 25 years for Brookfarm, Pam and Martin Brook spoke to both the challenges and rewards of developing a sustainable and ethical business in the Northern Rivers that has achieved international success and recognition.
The family moved from Melbourne in 1989 and took on the challenge of turning a rundown dairy farm into a working macadamia farm and regenerating an ancient sub-tropical rainforest on the property.
Pam brought laughter to everyone as she reflected on their humble beginnings at the Bangalow Market, houses full of boxes, and how their children Will and Eddie had to ask for boxes to be moved so they could watch TV while they put labels on the muesli packs.
It was an all-in family affair but as Pam said it was still about making sure the kids got their needs met with sports, music and fun even if there were 5am starts for markets every weekend.
Martin talked about how grateful he was to Jeff Dawson and The Echo for coming and doing their first promo photo at the markets and Ed Ahern’s store who, after a disappointing day for Martin trying to sell their two types of muesli, took all the stock he had in his ute.
The future
Everyone wishes Pam and Martin a well-deserved rest (not that they are likely to take one!) as they hand Brookfarm on to Will and his wife Jess who will continue to create new and exciting products as they develop the business into the future.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
