3 minute read
Kingwood Heights Orchard
3 WILL and son Roger.
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PERTH
DONNYBROOK
Farmers Keusch family
Location Donnybrook Enterprises Apples, pears, apricots
King of the Heart Pink Lady® apple for Mother’s Day
Naomi, Will, baby Roger, Rita and Karl Keusch.
BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST
It’s true that the Keusch family are no strangers to growing quality apples on their family orchard in Donnybrook. But it’s the unique story of family that created a special gift from a son to his mother that deserves a special mention in this edition of WA Grower.
It was eight years ago when Will Keusch was inspired to uniquely celebrate his mother Rita on Mother’s Day. Will said his mum was a remarkable lady and worked hard to raise eight kids, while helping his dad on the farm over the years. He said that she, more than anyone he knew, was well deserving of some recognition. So, he decided to trial and create the one-of-a-kind gift by placing a heart shaped sticker on a selection of the Pink Lady® apples while they were growing on the tree.
Six weeks later, during harvest, the stickers were removed revealing a green heart shape that contrasted against the pink background on the skin of the apple. A basket full of heart marked apples was presented to Rita — and she was chuffed! Over the years since, the idea has gained momentum and is now Kingwood Heights Orchard’s very own distinctive and sweet message for all Western Australian (WA) mothers to enjoy and celebrate the day. Unfortunately, due to labour shortages, Will has had to cut back on this speciality activity this year, but finding the point of difference has definitely boosted the promotion and reputation of the orchard.
This edition, Pomewest formally recognises the Keusch family: Will, his wife Naomi and son, 22-month-old Roger, and parents Rita and Karl. These people are among the rich tapestry of folk who form the foundation of the WA Pome Industry.
Of course, the success of the business is also due to the hard work of backpackers, local and transport workers who support the family to achieve what they do year in and year out. Will believes the secret to success is resilience.
“We never give up no matter what is thrown at us season after season,” Will said.
“We are worried that we may not have the pickers we need for this year’s harvest and the costs look like they will be significantly increased. “What we can manage is environmental factors such as hail and bird damage — we now net to protect our crop. “Our customers are lucky These people are among the rich tapestry of folk who form the foundation of the WA PomeIndustry. that they can enjoy locallygrown apples year-round, so all we ask is that our WA apple lovers buy local apples and support WA growers in every instance.” “Last year presented us The Keusch family are great with a new set of challenges, supporters of the Donnybrook this year it continues with labour Apple Festival. shortages and pest incursions. Every year they supply fruit to the fresh produce tent to help to promote fruit grown in the region.
MORE INFORMATION
Contact Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager, phone 0411 138 103 or email nardia@
pomewest.net.au
Donnybrook Apple Festival
Pomewest hopes to support the Donnybrook Apple Festival this year (COVID-19 permitting).
If you are planning a break in the area over Easter, April 3–4, we would love you to drop in and meet a few growers, like Will and his family. It’s a great opportunity to sample the great taste of our quality apples and pears this season.
3 PICKING is a family affair.
FOLLOW KINGWOOD ORCHARDS
@kingwoodheightsorchard @kingwoodheightsorchard
