Page 108 - Port Douglas Magazine 41

meet the producers.
WORDS By Jamie Jansen
A taste of tropical paradise
at this iconic roadside stop
NESTLED ALONG THE SCENIC Mossman-
Daintree Road, just a 20-minute drive from Port
Douglas, lies a hidden gem treasured by both locals
and travellers alike: Scomazzon’s Farm Store. This
quaint country store, situated at the base of the
Scomazzon family’s farm, has evolved into a beloved
landmark in the area. With extraordinary seasonal
exotic fruits and an array of handcrafted (foodie) gifts,
this is a must-do when visiting Port Douglas and the
Daintree.
Owned by Luigi and Angie Scomazzon, the store
is more than just a business; it’s a testament to the
family’s passion and dedication. The Scomazzon’s
Farm journey traces back to the 1930s when Luigi’s
grandfather emigrated from Italy to Australia, laying SCOMAZZON’S FARM STORE
the groundwork for what would blossom into a
flourishing tropical fruit farm, situated precisely where
the farm proudly stands today.
Initially focused on sugar cane, the farm took a
transformative turn in the late seventies when Luigi’s
parents ventured to Malaysia in search of seeds.
Their encounter with exotic fruits like rambutans,
mangosteens, and durians sparked a revolution in
the region’s fruit industry, laying the foundation for
the diverse range of fruits grown on the farm today,
including jackfruit, mamey sapotes, custard apples,
star apples, yellow sapote, and soursop.
Born and raised in the local area, Luigi found himself
drawn back to the family business after spending
years working in the sugarcane industry in the USA.
With determination and a sense of duty, he assumed
leadership of the farm, ensuring its continued success
for future generations.
Luigi understands firsthand the rewards and
challenges of fruit farming. Despite its rewarding
nature, it comes with its share of challenges such as
unpredictable weather, fungal diseases, pests such as
fruit sucking moths, fruit spotting bugs, and vermin.
110 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner
Luigi Scomazzon & Granddaughter Ella holding some durian.
“It’s an immersive experience - a
journey through generations of
family tradition and a celebration
of the bountiful beauty that defines
the Far North.”
Locally sourced artisan products
meet the producers.
While Luigi oversees operations, his four sons play
integral roles in the farm’s success, each contributing their
skills and ideas to the business. Over time, the farm has
seen significant growth, with the establishment of a fruit
shop in 1994 and branching out to distribute produce to
Rusty’s market in Cairns, as well as markets in Sydney and
Melbourne. You can also find Luigi personally attending
the Mossman markets on Saturdays and the Port Douglas
Sunday markets.
you enter their Farm Store. More than just a shopping
Yet, the essence of their legacy truly comes to life when
destination, it’s an immersive experience - a journey
through generations of family tradition and a celebration
of the bountiful beauty that defines the Far North.
As you step inside the store, you’re greeted by the
tantalising aroma of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. From
the luscious sweetness of rambutan and mangosteen to the
intriguing scent of durian, each offering reflects the fertile
abundance of the region.
Beyond their own produce, Scomazzon’s proudly showcases
a curated array of locally sourced artisanal products.
Every item reflects the Scomazzon family’s dedication
to demonstrating the diverse flavours and creative talents
found in Far North Queensland. The process of selecting
products is a collaborative effort within the team, with
each option meticulously evaluated.
Wandering through the aisles, you’ll encounter an
abundance of both edible and non-edible souvenirs, each
one narrating a unique story of the region’s richness and
artisanal expertise.
Take, for instance, Kefir Queen’s probiotic elixirs,
crafted by Penny in her specialised kitchen and plant-
based fermentary in Port Douglas. Using locally grown,
pesticide-free produce, Penny ensures that each elixir is
made without any processing equipment, guaranteeing a
pure and natural taste.
Or perhaps you might be tempted by the wholesome snacks
from Beach Harvest Australian Coconuts. This family-run
business in Port Douglas hand-harvests their coconuts,
creating delectable treats such as coconut chips in flavours
like maple, Tasmanian sea salt, and caramel. They also offer
coconut granola, dried mango, and pineapple, providing a
taste of tropical paradise.
You’ll also discover organic beauty products from
among others such as The Soap Shed Port Douglas. Or
find beautifully illustrated paper goods from Treasure
Inventory, with all artwork designed by Port Douglas local
Natasha Bellero.
Additionally, the store offers products sourced from other
regions of Australia. Recently, they introduced apple juice
sourced from down south, acquired from a vintage organic
van.
As Luigi and his wife Angie plan for the future, they
carry forward the values instilled by previous generations:
a commitment to progress and innovation, ensuring that
Scomazzon’s Farm continues to thrive and evolve.
For locals and tourists alike, a visit to Scomazzon’s
Farm Store is a journey through generations of family
tradition. So whether you find yourself passing through
Port Douglas or on your way to explore the lush wonders
of the Daintree, be sure to make Scomazzon’s your next
destination. After all, when you step through those doors,
you’re not just buying produce - you’re becoming part of
the Scomazzon family story.