Abdy Family, Bundaberg, QLD: Macadamias at the heart of a growing legacy

For Sara Abdy, macadamia farming isn’t just a livelihood—it’s a testament to her family’s enduring connection to the land. Nestled on the southeastern side of Bundaberg, just 15 minutes from Bargara, the Abdy family farm thrives under the careful stewardship of three generations.

“My grandparents migrated from Italy in the 1950s to cut cane,” Sara reflects. “They’re both over 90 now and still live on the farm. I visit them every day—that connection is priceless.”

Sara’s father, Eddy Zaina, owns the farm alongside her mother, Sue, and together the family has turned their passion for agriculture into a thriving macadamia enterprise. With husband Rhys lending his expertise from the corporate side of the industry and nephews helping out when they can, the Abdy farm is a true family affair.

From tobacco to trees: A new chapter in farming

Like many farms in the region, the Abdys tried their hand at everything—from small crops and tobacco to sugar cane and cattle. But it was a conversation with a fellow macadamia grower that set them on a new path.

“Dad realised macadamias weren’t as labour-intensive as small crops, so we planted our first trees over 20 years ago,” Sara explains. By 2018, the family had grown their operations to 70,000 trees before selling that property to focus on a more manageable farm—allowing them to enjoy the lifestyle they’d worked so hard to create.

“It was a huge change, but it brought us balance. Now we focus solely on macadamias, and it’s where our true passion lies.”

Sustainability rooted in tradition and innovation

With a rich blend of red volcanic and sandy loam soils, abundant water, and a stable climate, Bundaberg is perfect for growing premium macadamias. But it’s not just the conditions that make the Abdy farm special—it’s their forward-thinking approach.

“My father is a great believer in looking after the environment,” Sara says proudly. “We’ve invested in beehives, limited spraying to protect pollinators, and use organic methods where we can.” The farm also practices Integrated Pest Management, relies on natural fertilisers like molasses, and works closely with agronomists to nurture healthy, productive trees.

Located near a dehusking factory, they return husks to the orchard as mulch, enriching the soil naturally and reducing waste.

Macadamias at the heart of family life

It’s no surprise that macadamias feature heavily in the Abdy family kitchen. “Mum makes everything from macadamia cheese and chocolate slices to ice cream and cheesecake,” says Sara. “My daughter has grown up learning to cook with them, just as my Nonna taught me.”

When it comes to snacking, the family always has a nutcracker handy on the buggy—part quality control, part healthy treat. And for those special indulgences? “Honey-drizzled macadamia cheesecake and chocolate macadamia slice are family favourites.”

A growing legacy

For Sara, nothing compares to watching her children grow alongside the trees planted when her son was just eight months old. “Now the trees are nearly six years old, and my kids ride the buggy and their horses through the orchard. It’s a beautiful way of life.”

With every perfect nut harvested comes a sense of pride and reassurance. “It tells us we made the right choices,” Sara says. “That all the hard work was worth it.”

As for what she hopes people feel when enjoying Australian macadamias? “Pride,” she says simply. “They’re healthy, they taste amazing, and they’re a product of real passion and care. Our farmers put their hearts and souls into every nut—so when you savour that buttery crunch, you’re tasting the best of what Australia has to offer.”