Ingham’s has a proud connection to the land through its farming community.
This includes fourth-generation turkey farmers in the southern highlands, Andrew and Jessica Pace.
Giselle Barrero, Ingham’s Turkey Business Manager
Turkey Business Manager, Giselle Barrero, recently visited them in the lead-up to Christmas to meet Andrew and see his operations first-hand. Here’s what she had to say.
Turkey, or Guajolote as we called it in Mexico, was always at the heart of the table for any special occasion when I was growing up – Easter, my Grandma’s birthday, Christmas time and then a regular sandwich filling at school!
After working in the sales team at Ingham’s for more than two years, I jumped at the opportunity to join the Turkey business and get to know the team. This took me to the Southern Highlands to meet the Pace family. My first impressions on arrival to their farm was a sense of peace, the overwhelming beauty of the countryside and Andrew’s warm hospitality. Jessica wasn’t able to join us as they’ve just welcomed their second child.
Andrew is a fourth-generation farmer and he and Jessica have been caring for turkeys for five years. Andrew tends to the turkeys like a parent tends to its newborn – he’s up early, he cares deeply about their welfare and even gives them toys to keep them busy during the day.
Andrew and Jessica Pace
It is really satisfying to see first-hand that our animal’s welfare is a priority in being reared to nourish our communities. This includes one of their best customers, their local rotisserie, who says their customers love the Pace farm’s turkeys. And why wouldn’t they? It’s a tasty and healthy protein option!
It’s been a tough year for our farmers, who have had to contend with drought and local bushfires. These days we hear a lot about mindfulness eating and, so, this year, I would encourage everyone to know where your food comes from and buy homegrown to support our local farmers and local businesses. And, as the Turkey Business Manager, of course I hope you celebrate and share a turkey this Christmas!
Click here for more information on our farming and animal welfare