Since the 1870s, the Nagorcka family has farmed the fertile soil west of the Grampians. Today, they produce organically grown flaxseed for the health-food industry and for everyday people seeking nutritious plant-based food.

Who: The Nagorcka family, fifth-generation farmers, Waltanna Farms

Where: Hamilton, Southern Grampians Shire, Gunditjmara Country 

Here’s Waltanna Farms’ business manager, Greg Moon, with everything you need to know:

Why is flaxseed so good for you?
Flaxseed comes from flax and is high in natural oils. These include omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids in proportions considered to be beneficial for joints, hair, skin, and gut health. The oil also contains a cholesterol-like substance called phytosterol, which clinical studies have shown can reduce bad cholesterol, thereby potentially leading to a healthier cardiovascular system.  

How does flax grow?
It’s an annual crop planted from winter to spring and harvested in summer. We have all the processing, pressing, and packaging facilities on the farm here in the Western District.

How do you eat flaxseed?
We produce the seeds, flaxseed oil, meal, fine meal flour, and powders. We offer a large range of recipes, from cakes and salad dressings to meatballs, to help people incorporate flaxseed in their diet. 

How do you sell your Waltanna Farms products?
We grow 1000 tonnes of flax and have 300 customers across the country, including food developers and health-food manufacturers, as well as customers who package our products and sell them in supermarkets. We have a large network of health-food stores and food stores that stock our products. People can also visit our website to buy them, waltannafarms.com.au.