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We should all ask questions about how our food is grown and processed, and then support the farms that align with our values."

Farm Yarns

Meet the Kiss Family

Meet Kim and Bryan: Raising chickens with respect for tradition and land

For Kim and her family, poultry has always been more than just a business. What began as a cherished mealtime tradition organically evolved into a deeply fulfilling farming pursuit.

“Poultry was something we always ate as a family on the farm”. This nostalgic connection to chickens made the decision to incorporate them into their farm’s operations a natural progression, especially as they sought to enhance their soil health through diverse agricultural practices.

 

Meet the Sommerlad Chickens

At Grassland Poultry, Kim and Bryan raise Sommerlad Chickens, a breed designed for both resilience and flavour. Unlike the common Lilydale chickens found in supermarkets, which are typically processed at just 4-6 weeks old, Sommerlad Chickens are nurtured for 12-14 weeks. This extended growth period contributes to their richer flavour and higher nutritional value.

“These birds have amazing foraging ability and are hardy survivors,” Kim explains. “Hot summers and cold winters don’t seem to bother them, making them perfect for our climate.” The Sommerlad Chickens thrive outdoors, following their natural instincts in open pastures, resulting in healthier and happier birds.

Kim and Bryan’s commitment to regenerative farming is evident in every aspect of Grassland Poultry. From maintaining 100% ground cover, to de-stocking (reducing their birds) when necessary, and fostering a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, it’s clear that the vision for this farm is to create a harmonious system built around regenerative principles.

“The aim is to create a balanced, resilient agricultural system that can sustain itself and the community around it.”

 

The Lifecycle and Lifestyle of Grassland Poultry Chickens

Grassland Poultry operates as a closed-loop system. From breeding their own stock to raising them in open pastures and processing them on-site, every step is carefully managed to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and environmental stewardship. “Animal welfare is very important to the quality of our food,” Kim emphasises.

The Importance of Choice

Kim and Bryan believe that consumers should care about the lifecycle of the birds they eat, as it directly impacts food quality and sustainability. “It’s all about choice,” he asserts. Supporting farms that prioritise animal welfare and regenerative practices helps create a more sustainable food system.

For Bryan, regeneration sits at the heart of everything they do. “It’s about building soils and looking after our environment, always looking at how to help nature to improve the landscape we live in.” It’s a holistic approach that encompasses every aspect of their farming practices, ensuring a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
 
 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Grassland Poultry

In the next five years, Kim and Bryan envision a transition to the next generation of leadership at Grassland Poultry. However, they are confident that the farm will continue to lead in the field of pasture-raised heritage chicken farming. “The partnership with the landscape is about the connection—soil, grasses, animals, and us,” he says. “We all need to have an ongoing conversation with the landscape we live in.”
 
 

A Community of Innovators

Grassland Poultry is one of the few farms in Australia breeding and growing the particular Sommerlad chickens, and Bryan feels fortunate for the support they receive from community and local government alike. The farm’s innovative practices and commitment to quality have made them a leader in their industry, and they continue to inspire others with their dedication to sustainable agriculture.

Grassland Poultry is a shining example of farming with a deep respect for the natural world. Through their regenerative practices and commitment to animal welfare, Kim and Bryan are not only improving their farm but also contributing to a healthier, more regenerative future for us all.

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