What does it really take to build a successful family business that stands the test of time?

In this episode of Allies on Pursuit, host Chad Kemp sits down with Gavin Scurr, Managing Director of Piñata Farms, one of Australia's leading fresh produce growers and the nation's largest pineapple producer.

What began as a modest family farming operation in Wamuran, Queensland, in 1964 has grown into a nationally recognised agricultural business, producing pineapples, mangoes, strawberries and raspberries across Australia.

But behind that success is a fascinating story of family, ambition, calculated risks, devastating setbacks and the determination to keep moving forward.

Gavin shares his experiences growing a multigenerational family business alongside his brother Stephen, navigating the challenges of modern agriculture and helping represent the interests of Australian growers at an industry level.

In this conversation, we explore:

🍍 The family legacy – How an unexpected move into farming became a business spanning generations.

📈 Business growth and diversification – The decisions, risks and opportunities that helped transform Piñata Farms.

💪 Resilience and leadership – Overcoming devastating setbacks, managing people and building a business that employees genuinely believe in.

🌏 Pineapple imports and biosecurity – The concerns surrounding proposed fresh pineapple imports from India and Indonesia, and what they could mean for Australian growers.

🇦🇺 The future of Australian jobs – Balancing affordable produce and competitive pricing with the importance of supporting local industries and jobs that pay a living wage.

🌱 Our farming heritage – Why agriculture remains such an important part of the Sunshine Coast's history, identity and community.

🚜 The future of farming – Rising costs, workforce challenges, innovation and the opportunities and pressures facing the next generation of Australian farmers.

It's an honest, insightful and entertaining conversation that goes well beyond growing fruit. Whether you're a business owner, an entrepreneur, someone interested in Australia's agricultural future, or simply someone who appreciates the families behind the food on our supermarket shelves, there's plenty to take away from this episode.

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💬 Share your thoughts in the comments. We'd love to hear your perspective on the future of Australian farming!