Tathra Homestead

Tathra Homestead is a family-owned Australian business operated by three generations of the Darmody family on a property in the Barossa Valley named "Tathra," meaning "beautiful country" in an Aboriginal language.

The founding generation comprises Kim, Joy and Craig, with the second generation including Jess, Rooey and Thomas, while the youngest members are Taylor and Jack. Kim and Joy selected the property name "Tathra" in 1991 when the family first moved to the land. Over more than 25 years, they have reintroduced plant and animal biodiversity to the property.

The family cultivates three olive varieties: Manzanillo, which produces round olives that mature early in the season; Mission, a medium-sized variety that ripens later; and Correggiola, known for its small but oil-rich fruit. They produce both early and late harvested oils, with early picked oils displaying fresh green grass characteristics and late picked oils offering a buttery profile.

The business also grows fresh vegetables, herbs, free-range eggs, and artisan food products, with a focus on biodiversity and chemical-free practices. They are certified members of the Australian Olive Association, adhering to its Olivecare code of practice, and have spent over 25 years restoring native plants and animals to their land. The business reflects their lifestyle and commitment to sustainable, hands-on farming.