Rachel Rubenstein - Mossy Willow Farm
Who are you? where and what do you farm?
My name is Rachel Rubenstein I am a farmer at Mossy Willow Farm (@mossywillowfarm) on the
Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. The farm is managed by Mike and Keren. We are an organic, bio-
intensive, no till, regenerative market garden covering just over an acre. We grow a wide range of
vegetables and supply grocery stores and restaurants in the area, we also sell produce at our farm
gate on Saturdays and at two markets in the city. (@fitzroymills @alphingtonfm)
How did you start your farming journey / what led you to it?
I had never considered farming as an opportunity growing up, I studied a bachelor of graphic design
and found myself completely disconnected from my work. I decided to travel overseas after I
finished studying my first degree and started exploring the world of sustainability. These travels lead
me to an internship on an ecological farm in Israel. When I returned home I began my Masters in
Sustainable Practice while interning at Mossy Willow Farm. I have now been working at the farm
since early 2017, have finished my Masters Degree and am transitioning into more of an education
role which is very exciting.
Is it what you expected?
I really came into farming without any expectation, coming from my inner-city life it was a new
world! I definitely didn’t expect to love farming as much as I do. I love working so hard that I sleep
for 12 hours at night, I love working outside with a team of passionate young farmers, I love selling
our produce at markets and seeing regular customers come back just for us each week, I love talking
about farming and educating the community about the importance of eating local and organic.
Biggest learning curve so far?
Understanding nature, working with plants and seeds and trying to provide them with everything
necessary to grow and flourish.
Who / what / why inspired you to get farming?
Mikey Densham has been an amazing support and mentor throughout my farming journey. I really
wouldn’t be where I am without him! He informed me about the ecological internship I first did in
2015, then invited me to intern at Mossy Willow, and I have been there ever since!
What is the dream?
To inspire more young farmers
To see more regenerative farms in Australia
To create a sustainable food bowl in Melbourne
To strengthen our local food movement
To increase awareness about where food comes from
To create a community around knowing your farmer