KIM & DAN CROKER of FORK IT FARM
Kim and Dan Croker took out the wooden spoon for as winners of the 2022 Sprout Producer of the Year.
Daniel and Kim Croker are two of the most hard-working and passionate people we know. Together with Kim’s parents, Nan, sister Abbey and her husband Rich, they help make up the team at Fork It Farm.
Daniel and Kim are foremost farmers, meatsmiths, and artisan producers. They raise Heritage Berkshire pigs naturally on pasture, leading to happy pigs with snouts in the dirt, wallowing in the mud and consuming a diverse diet. The farm, based on 44 hectares in Lebrina, a peaceful township in Tasmania’s East Tamar Valley, is also home to sheep, cattle, poultry, bees, orchards and a kitchen garden.
The farming methods and beliefs they use, from grazing rotations to slaughter, preserve and protect the land they live on and respect the animals they raise from birth. The meat from these animals is then turned into small-batch artisan products that are hand crafted themselves, at the on-farm butchery.
Their processes and products are curated to bring out the best in every cut of the animal, whether it’s hot smoked bacon or the humble jowl – each element and ingredient is important and out of respect to their animals, Kim and Dan give each piece of meat the time and respect it deserves.
Fork It Farm also offer authentic paddock to plate food experiences, from paddock picnics to long table feasts, as well as farm stay accommodation, and are passionate about all things Tasmania. They love to feature it’s produce to create uniquely Tasmanian flavour combinations, and are committed to generating a strong and resilient local food system, demonstrated by all their hard work in driving the Tasmanian Produce Collective, an online produce shop owned and operated by ethical and sustainable Tasmanian producers.
Congratulations to Daniel and Kim, and the whole team at Fork It Farm!
Comments from their passionate supporters
“They have integrated cider apple and animal production and are regenerating their whole property. They are enthusiastic contributors to small farming groups“
“Their apple juice is the best we’ve ever tasted! We love their openness and generosity to the small producer community in Tasmania. It’s been inspiring to watch their honesty in sharing the good and tough times in farming and the mental and emotional stain that can sometimes be felt by families on the land. Matthew and Coreen love their animals and are gently farming their patch of earth. Love it!“
“Our Mates Farm is a family owned and run, organic farm. Matt and Coreen have an intense passion for the food that they raise and grow on there farm and the quality and ethics are exceptional! They are strong influencers in the community. Attending and helping out at community events. They also contribute to raising awareness by speaking at events or on the radio. They are always there to help out other farmers when in need and are always willing to share their knowledge and experiences. I have been welcomed at their farm many times to be shown and taught how to improve our own farm for things such as pruning, grafting, covering a poly tunnel and so on. Nothing is ever hassle. From a community and hospitality perspective, I can’t think of a more deserving couple to receive this award!!!!!“