EVERT Driessen went shopping for cherry trees in 1984 and returned with blueberry plants.
It was that impromptu, but fortuitous, change of plan 30 years ago that led to the thriving Mantirri Blueberry Farm in Narbethong, and ultimately the Badger Creek Blueberry Farm and Winery Cafe.
Tragically, Mantirri was lost in the bushfires of 2009, but with a sister ‘patch’ of blueberries thriving at Badger Creek by that time, the delightful blueberry experience continues – including berries fresh from the bushes from December through to February.
Overlooking the rolling Warramate Hills across the Yarra River flats, the cafe specialises in home-cooked morning and afternoon teas, baked fresh daily.
The house specialty, and favourite with visitors, is undoubtedly the mouth-watering berry pancakes, but really, it can be a tough choice with delicious berry muffins and friands, baked cheesecake, apple and blueberry strudel competing on the menu.
The cafe is cosy and comfortable, but in spring, the opportunity to move outside and soak up a bit of spring sunshine, and the views, is irresistible.
A range of fruit wines, including the farm winery’s refreshing blueberry sparkling, is available for tasting and purchase, along with the St Ronan’s apple or pear ciders and a selection of ales.
The experience doesn’t have to end with your visit however. Choose from a great range of berry products including jams and toppings to take home, or to share with friends.
You can even grow your own with several varieties of blueberry plants available, with helpful growing advice thrown in for free!
Frozen blueberries are available all year round.
Badger Creek Blueberry Farm is just around the corner from Healesville Sanctuary at 11 Garnook Grove and is open from 10am to 5pm, Thursday through to Monday.
Visit blueberrywinery.com.au or phone 5962 1601.
