Welcome to Currajong Retreat’s very first blog post, a milestone that’s been four years in the making. We understand all too well the juggling act of small business ownership—balancing the daily grind with the evolution of our dreams. And yet, here we are, finally taking the leap to share our journey with you. Imperfections and all, we embody the spirit of a family-run business, and it’s the journey that shapes us.
The Forsdick Family
From South African Roots to Australian Adventures
Our story, rich with accents reminiscent of South African heritage, begins in 1999 when we – Grant Jenny, Megan, and Lara (that’s me) – immigrated to Australia, embracing Sydney as our new home. After 18 years in the bustling streets of the city, the call of the land, embedded deep within Grant’s childhood memories of Eastern Cape farmlands, beckoned to a return to life on the land.
Discovery of Currajong Common
Grant’s dream became a reality when the quest for the idyllic farm led to a chance discovery in the Towamba Valley – a hidden paradise we now know as Currajong Common. The next conversation, filled with humour and unexpected prospects was with Jenny, who was asked what she thought about inheriting a curious mob of goats. Jenny, a preschool teacher, had no idea what to do with goats – well to be honest none of us did. With the adaptability and grace of a supportive wife – she swapped her 20 preschoolers for 160 cheeky goats. And the adventure began.
Jenny and Grant feeding our first poddies (hand raised baby goats) in 2017
Crafting Currajong: A Labour of Love
By 2017, Currajong Common was ours, complete with its hand-built mudbrick homestead and off-grid ethos. Complete with river frontage, stunning views, and a rich history of sustainability we were eager to become part of it.
Over the past seven years, we’ve nurtured the transformation of Currajong, being respectful of the past, and embracing the future. Each season adds a layer to our story:
Homestead Revival — We renovated the original mudbrick homestead, balancing modern touches with its rustic soul.
Solar Evolution — Our commitment to sustainability saw us upgrading the solar system to accommodate modern living and developments in solar technology.
Garden and Orchard Establishment — Transforming the gardens and orchard surrounding the homestead into the array of colours you see today.
Cultural Connections — The construction of a traditional African-style firepit (The Currajong Boma) rekindled our connection to heritage and kept our love for a braai alive.
Resource Sustainability — Additional water tanks were installed, significantly increasing our water storage capacity.
Currajong Cottage — The quaint Currajong Cottage emerged from the old stone goat shed, offering a self-contained accommodation for our expanding Currajong family.
Agricultural Advances — With regenerative farming practices, our Angora goat herd grew in number and mohair quality.
Currajong Retreat — Crafting a sanctuary where luxury meets nature, offering tented accommodation that serves as a serene escape, allowing guests to unwind from the fast pace of life while immersed in the tranquillity of our natural surroundings.
The Faces of Currajong
Grant — The Steward of the Land
The champion of holistic management approach to regenerative agriculture and mohair magnificence, Grant embodies the wisdom of the land and is fondly referred to as the grass man. His business acumen and consultancy expertise ensure that Currajong thrives in harmony with nature. His passion for healing the land is only matched by his love for preparing a traditional South African braai complete with beloved borewares.
Jenny — The Soul of Service
Jenny’s welcoming spirit is the cornerstone of our retreat. Her culinary prowess and dedication to creating memorable guest experiences have made her the heart of Currajong. When she’s not crafting delicious meals, she’s out in the paddocks, sharing tender moments with our goats, the unsung heroes of our retreat. Fondly known as the ‘goat whisperer’ she has taken the role of farmer and goat mum in her stride.
Lara — The Creative Heart
After embracing Currajong as my new home, I’ve immersed myself in various creative endeavours. From redesigning the homestead and transforming the cottage to developing the retreat from vision to reality. Weaving my passion for design and innovation into the fabric of Currajong Retreat.
Safi — The Welcoming Party
Safi (Safari), my little Cavoodle is the latest addition to the Currajong family and has quickly become an integral part of our retreat, winning hearts and bringing smiles to everyone she meets. Our unofficial greeter of guests to Currajong Retreat and the most adorable ‘black goat’ of our flock, you will most certainly be captivated by her adorable nature.
