Robin Oakley – Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables

Owner Robin Oakley started the Southbridge business in 1999. He says it can be the small things and observations that make all the difference to sustainably producing quality vegetables. To enhance crop performance, his team keeps a close eye on crop rotations, soil cultivation, soil nutrients and irrigation, plus they adapt to environmental conditions.

The judges commended Oakley’s for using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to determine when to apply pesticides, backing their commitment to using minimal fertilisers and chemicals. They’re working with Plant & Food Research to release a wasp that biologically controls pest insects, plus have a strong focus on reducing their environmental footprint – for example 70% of water is recycled.

Maintaining the health of plants reflects the business’s innovative approach, another aspect praised by the judges. For example, Oakley’s uses quality genetics to achieve high-grade, maximum yields while reducing inputs. They’re constantly trialling new material as they fine tune what works best. They’re also innovative in their use of technology, whether it be for machinery, communication or monitoring.

The result is consistently high-quality vegetables and, ultimately, happy customers. The judges were impressed with the business’s flexibility to meet changing consumer needs and an outstanding commitment to customer satisfaction. Staff wellbeing is a priority, as is supporting the local community with both sponsorship and produce.

2020 AWARDS RECEIVED:

• Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award
• Hill Laboratories Agri-Science Award
• Massey University Innovation Award

Find out more about the Awards here.