Meet Kate

Meet Kate
Kate’s journey into berry farming started far from Tasmania—in the dairy fields of Kent, UK, where her family ran a farm and she studied Agricultural Science. After moving to Australia, she brought her passion for farming with her and, in 2012, took a bold leap into berry growing—despite having no prior experience with soft fruit. Today, she leads Burlington Berries as Managing Director, working closely with a dedicated team that includes her four daughters, making it a true family-run business.

Set in Cressy, Tasmania, Burlington Berries thrives in a region known for its cool summers and crisp winters—ideal conditions for growing high-quality soft fruit. The 68-hectare farm is home to rows of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, all grown under protective polytunnels using coir, a sustainable coconut fibre substrate. With natural windbreaks, ample water, and room to grow, the farm is built to last—and flourish.

Kate’s day-to-day is focused on the bigger picture: reducing food waste, advancing sustainability, ensuring financial stability, and improving the farm’s packhouse logistics. But what hasn’t changed is her love for berries—she still enjoys them daily, straight from the plant or sprinkled over cereal. And for every celebration? Berries are always on the table.

Burlington Berries isn’t just about farming—it’s deeply connected to the local community. The team supports nearby schools and shops, donates fruit to aged care homes, and provides seconds fruit to local charities for jam-making. They’re also proud supporters of local sports, including the Launceston rugby clubs and Cressy Bowls Club.

Sustainability is at the core of everything they do. From solar panels powering the packhouse and village, to reusing excess fruit for animals or secondary manufacturing, and encouraging pollinators with dedicated plantings, Burlington Berries is paving the way for a more conscious future in agriculture.