‘Blown away’: How small business is putting Toowoomba on map

What started out as just a few lavender seedlings and a big dream has turned into one successful small business for the Vohland family. Find out about this venture’s exciting news here.

It’s been a challenging two years for businesses across the country and none more so than those in the agricultural and farming sector, after battling drought, floods and bushfires.

This has been the reality for Alicia and Craig Vohland and their two children, who started Windy Acres Farm in 2019, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at the growing successes of this family business to date.

Windy Acres Farm owners Craig and Alicia Vohland, with kids Mia and Noah and dog Milly, are finalists in the Australian Rural Business Awards, Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Now, the Vohland clan can add another milestone to the board, after their Westbrook venture was named a finalist in two categories for the 2022 Australian Rural Business Awards.

“Our drive from the very beginning has been to promote agritourism in our area and to talk about the ecosystem,” Ms Vohland said.

“From planting lavender, right through to helping out at events, our entire family have been so involved, so this is a real celebration of our family.”

Windy Acres Farm owners Craig and Alicia Vohland, with kids Mia and Noah, are finalists in the Australian Rural Business Awards, Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The lavender and bee farm serves as a scenic backdrop for photographers, events and picnics and has become popular for its raw honey and stunning handmade products.

Ms Vohland founder said she hoped the recognition inspired other aspiring small business owners and thanked the community for their support.

“We didn’t think we had the capital or knowledge to run a small business and farm, but sometimes you just need to take a leap of faith,” she said.

Windy Acres Farm owners Craig and Alicia Vohland, with kids Mia and Noah, are finalists in the Australian Rural Business Awards, Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Nominated as finalists in the Rural Business to Watch and Australian Made Small Business categories, Ms Vohland said she would celebrate by watching the online event at home with the entire family.

Winners will be announced at the online event on Friday night, which starts at 7.30pm.

For more information, visit spendwithus.com.au.