Produce with a purpose
Endless opportunities sprout at DSA's Farm Fresh
Based in Braemar NSW, the Farm Fresh operation is a social enterprise providing customers the opportunity to buy locally grown and ethically produced herbs.
The Farm Fresh produce is planted, grown, and harvested by DSA’s supported employees living with disability. You can buy and enjoy the freshest produce with the lowest carbon footprint – together we can do our part for environmental sustainability.
Upskilling
People with a disability gain valuable horticultural and employment skills.
Enjoyable jobs
Creating sustainable jobs that are rewarding and meaningful.
Eco-friendly produce
The end result? Produce that’s grown ethically, with a low carbon footprint.
Meet the growers
Tess
Working with my team and doing something different.
I would be basil, because it’s a good all-rounder – like me!
I like to do artwork at home. I paint and like to put crystals on pictures. I also like shopping with my mum.
Daniel
There’s so much variety in the work. It’s an interesting job and different to packing. I have learned some new skills and knowledge.
I would be parsley because it’s mild, and I’m mild-mannered!
I’ve gotten an ‘Employee of the Year’ nomination at DSA and I have won two DSA ‘Employee of the Month’ awards – these have been some of my proudest achievements.
Kevin
I like gardening work and I enjoy getting to be part of the whole process. I have done setting up the soil and planting the seeds. To putting the adult plants into containers on trucks to be sold.
Parsley, because I’m versatile.
I achieved my car licence a month ago and now I can drive for the first time! I also like watching rugby league (go Parramatta!).
Joanna
I’m working on a veggie garden at home, and I like gardening.
I would be rosemary because it makes lamb loveable – like me!
I like going on CareAway holidays in a group. I’m going to Melbourne soon! I also like watching Home and Away and the Olympics.
Matthew
I enjoy putting the soil and seeds into the pots.
I would pick sage as I’m sage with my intelligence.
I’ve won ‘Employee of the Year’ at DSA many times now. I have also won the footy tipping comp a fair few times. I walk everyday and love listening to jazz, blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll!
Andy
I enjoy seeing the positive responses from IGA and developing our working relationship with the staff.
Mint: It’s popular, well-know, and likeable!
I’ve taken part in ‘Spartan’ and ‘Tough Mudda’ obstacle course events. I regularly attend church, go to the gym, and enjoy social outings with my girlfriend.
Mark
I like putting the soil into pots and bagging.
I would be chamomile because it helps people to relax. I help people relax because I’m so easygoing.
We have lots of chickens and roosters in our yard that wake us up early!
Here’s how to support Farm Fresh
You can buy our microherbs direct from IGA Moss Vale, Highland Fresh Mittagong and The Oaks Fruit Shop.
If you’re eating at Mittagong RSL or Paste Thai Restaurant, you might sample some of our microgreens on your dish!
Our current commercial partners include Rita’s Farm, Perfection Fresh and Flemington Market and Sydney Direct Fresh Produces.
“We have participants from all different backgrounds with unique ambitions and goals. Our Farm Fresh operation gives our supported employees the chance to develop a unique skillset, in a fun and supportive environment.”
Wara Kitsiri, DSA Packaging Solutions Site Manager
“I started out here packaging coffee pods. Along the way, they’ve realised my abilities and I’ve been working my way up. Doing jobs that take a bit more thinking about what you’ve got to do. Farm Fresh work is different. You get to put some soil in, seeds, water. And see the herbs at different stages.”
