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Congratulations to Gympie growers Nathan and Tirtzah, who, after 17 years together decided to tie the knot in a magnificent ceremony on their orchard at Canina. 

A stunningly decorated marquee seating 110 guests became the centrepiece of the orchard, and a sumptuous BBQ lunch was served up by the volunteers from the Apostolic Church in Gympie. Guests were encouraged to donate to the church’s Volunteers Foundation to assist its charity work, in lieu of personal gifts. 

Nathan and Tirtzah’s orchard was originally part of “Kilfenora”, one of the very early orchards developed by the inimitable Ian McConachie AM about forty years ago. 

Downsfield Macadamias goes Dinkum Aussie

Congratulations are also in order for award-winning Gympie growers Ian and Candy Johnson who became Australian citizens this week! 

Originally from the UK, Ian and Candy moved into full time macadamia farming at Downsfield on Sandy Creek Road, to the east of Gympie in 2015. 

The orchard was one of the early units established and managed by Ian McConachie and in part Tim Salmon, who provided much advice pre and post purchase, together with Gympie’s Brice Kaddatz.

Despite the town being flooded upon his arrival in 2015 to finalise negotiations for the purchase, Ian and Candy ultimately took ownership of the farm, and with help from their two daughters at critical times have raised the productivity of Downsfield well beyond its previous best. Ian’s focus on mechanisation and contacts in the machinery field in the UK facilitated the purchase of several pieces of equipment easily converted for use in macadamias. The orchard is well equipped with modern machinery.

As a double celebration, this pioneering pair have now purchased another young 10,000 tree orchard in the Gympie region. Never afraid of a challenge and hard work, Ian and Candy are set to increase their contribution to the Australian macadamia industry.

Congratulations Ian & Candy. 

Image: Gympie Regional Council  Mayor, Glen Hartwig, presenting certificates and gifts to Ian & Candy.

Contributed by Brice Kaddatz.