Native Oz Bushfoods

In 2014, drought hit Doug and Tracey's cattle farm in the Lockyer Valley. By 2016, the situation had become so dire that they had to sell their prized Angus cattle. It was a devastating blow, but also a turning point that would reveal their true passion - preserving and promoting native Australian foods.

Doug is a proud Bundjalung man, his ancestors coming from north-eastern New South Wales. He had always been close to the land, so with the drought still gripping the land in 2018, he and Tracey made a bold decision. They would regenerate their property by planting 450 native bushfood trees. Hand-watering the seedlings for months on end, slowly, life began to return to their parched land.

In August 2019, Tracey introduced their first three products to the local markets - a salt blend and two jams. To their delight, customers were intrigued by these unique flavours. As Doug and Tracey threw themselves into their native foods business, they experimented with what species would thrive on their land and in their bush tukka garden. By 2021, they had expanded to 15 handcrafted spice blends, jams and sauces. Their business, Native Oz Bushfoods, was not only gaining momentum, but their growing knowledge was also in demand across Australia.

The next step was to welcome visitors to their property, which they did in May 2022. They created educational tours, sharing their passion for native foods and Aboriginal culture. Visitors participate in smoking ceremonies, connect with the land, and learn about bushfoods. “Changing our relationship with the land, and connecting with the land, and learning about bushfoods is something that we are passionate about and want to share”, says Tracey.  

Doug and Tracey’s journey has not been without its setbacks. Throughout it all, Doug and Tracey have forged partnerships with universities, advocated for protecting native species, and are working to educate the next generation. Today, they continue to innovate and grow their business. Their story is one of pivoting, passion, and a deep connection to the land - a testament to the power of reimagining what's possible.

Doug and Tracey Goebel -  Native Oz Bushfoods