From backyard memories to leading macadamia farms across Australia, Graham Wessling’s story is one of passion, innovation, and pride in an iconic Australian nut.

Like many Australians, Graham Wessling’s connection to macadamias began in childhood with a single tree in the backyard. “I didn’t realise that humble tree had the potential that it did,” he reflects. 

That shared experience still resonates today, especially when he hears others say, “I had one of those as a kid.” It’s a reminder that macadamias aren’t just a crop, they’re part of Australia’s story.

A life rooted in the land

Farming isn’t just a career, for macadamia grower Graham, it’s a way of life. Based near Clunes in northern New South Wales, Graham lives on a small farm with his wife Katie and their two children, Hayden and Brylee. Alongside their beef cattle, macadamias play a central role in both their livelihood and their story.

His journey into macadamias? As he puts it, “Good luck, I guess! With a little help from my family”. Introduced to the industry by his father-in-law, Graham quickly found his place in a sector that would shape the next two decades of his life. Today, as General Manager, Farming at CL Macs, he oversees operations across multiple regions, from the Northern Rivers to Gympie and Bundaberg.

No two days are the same

Ask Graham what a typical day looks like, and the answer is simple: there isn’t one.

From strategic planning and innovation to crop nutrition and protection, his role spans every corner of macadamia farming. And that’s exactly what he loves most: the variety, the challenge, and the opportunity to keep improving.

In an industry where margins are tightening, Graham sees innovation as essential. “We have to be better every year,” he says. “It’s about never settling and always looking for ways to improve.”

Farming with purpose

At CL Macs, sustainability isn’t a buzzword, it’s a long-term commitment. From creating fish habitats and stabilising riverbanks to installing owl boxes that naturally help manage pests, Graham and his team are constantly finding ways to work with nature, not against it. These thoughtful, practical initiatives reflect a deep respect for the land and a desire to farm responsibly for generations to come. And as a fully vertically integrated business, growing, harvesting, and selling their own macadamias the team maintains a strong connection to every step of the journey.

The “queen of nuts” at home

While macadamias are Graham’s profession, they’re also a daily pleasure. He admits to snacking on them “copiously”, usually roasted and salted, with a stash never far away. At home, macadamias feature in everything from Katie’s white chocolate and raspberry muffins to simple snack mixes with almonds and cashews perfect for busy days or relaxed afternoons.

And when it comes to a standout dish? Macadamia-crusted barramundi is a clear favourite, bringing together Australia’s native nut with one of its most loved seafoods.

The joy of sharing

For Graham, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is seeing others discover macadamias for the first time.

Whether gifting them to family in Western Australia or watching someone try a simple roasted macadamia, the reaction is always memorable. “The look on someone’s face… it’s completely infectious,” he says.

It’s this sense of joy and connection that makes macadamias so special, perfect for sharing, celebrating, or simply elevating everyday moments.

The harvest feeling

While the idea of a “perfect nut” might be hard to define, the feeling of harvest is unmistakable.

As trailers of macadamias roll into the shed, there’s a shared sense of pride across the team. Energy lifts, spirits rise, and the hard work of the season comes together in a moment of collective success.

Looking ahead

For Graham, the future of macadamias is grounded in two key ideas: health and sustainability.

Rich in healthy fats and naturally nourishing, macadamias are increasingly recognised for their role in supporting wellbeing. At the same time, the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices ensures it can continue to thrive long into the future.

Above all, Graham hopes that when people enjoy macadamias, they feel something deeper.

“A sense of place and pride,” he says. “Knowing that the macadamia is an Australian native success story.”