After a challenging period for Australia's horticultural industry, there's promising news for farm communities in Victoria and Queensland as two established agricultural companies step in to revitalize former Dicky Bill salad farms, bringing jobs and renewed economic activity to their regions.

Hussey & Co and Riviera Farms, both respected Victorian businesses, have taken over the operations, with workers already returning to the fields they know and love. The move represents a heartening example of industry resilience and community support during difficult times.

At the Drinan farm near Bundaberg, about 350 kilometers north of Brisbane, Riviera Farms is making exciting progress. Managing director Nelson Cox shared the good news that two former staff members have already been rehired, with three more joining the team in coming weeks.

"They're very good staff, all people that have worked on the farm, so they know the farm," Cox said warmly. "A different area has different growing challenges than what we have, so to get that knowledge has been really great."

The Queensland operation is particularly valuable for Riviera Farms' expansion plans. With planting for the winter crop expected to begin in February, Cox anticipates building the workforce to around thirty to forty staff members through the winter production season. The farm will continue its on-site processing operations, maintaining the comprehensive agricultural work that makes these facilities so valuable to their communities.

"We're glad to be able to fill that gap and make up a bit for what's happened," Cox said, acknowledging the community impact while looking forward optimistically.

For the fifth-generation family business, the Bundaberg location offers exciting opportunities to provide year-round service to customers. "We do struggle in the winter months with growing; it can get quite cold down in Victoria," Cox explained. "Our customers expect a consistent 12-month supply, so we took the opportunity to go to Bundaberg."

Meanwhile, in Victoria, Hussey & Co is taking over the Maffra farm, approximately 220 kilometers west of Melbourne. The company already operates successful farms and processing facilities across multiple states, demonstrating the kind of stability and experience that promises a bright future for the location.

Managing director Jeremy Haw sees tremendous potential in expanding the company's growing capacity. While the processing facility won't reopen immediately, Haw remains optimistic about future possibilities as operations develop.

Warakirri Asset Management, which owns both farm properties, expressed confidence in the transition. In a statement, they emphasized that both businesses are highly productive and valued, and acknowledged that Hussey & Co and Riviera Farms "are working hard to return the two sites to full operation, and in turn, restoring the significant economic contribution and employment opportunities these properties offer the respective regions."

The story represents more than just a business transaction—it's about experienced agricultural professionals recognizing opportunity, communities getting back to work, and the enduring strength of Australia's farming sector. As Cox noted, the horticultural industry has faced challenging times recently, but "the horticultural industry in general is certainly looking for some fresh air, so hopefully we can do that."

With planting season approaching and workers returning to familiar fields, there's genuine reason for optimism in these farming communities.