A Western Australian farm has earned international recognition, placing itself among the world’s elite agritourism destinations. Chestnut Brae, a 1000-tree sweet chestnut farm nestled in the picturesque Nannup region, has been named one of the top 10 agritourism spots in the world by the Global Agritourism Network.

The prestigious award was announced on May 16th, World Agritourism Day, at the 2024 World Agritourism Awards ceremony in Bozen, South Tyrol, Italy. Chestnut Brae shared the spotlight with nine other exceptional farms from around the globe, including the United States, Albania, Taiwan, India, and another Australian representative, Curringa Farm in Tasmania.

John and Linda Stanley, who have owned and operated Chestnut Brae since 2013, have meticulously transformed the farm into a thriving agritourism hub. They converted the original farmhouse into a charming farm stay, offering guests a unique glimpse into rural life. Their commitment to showcasing the versatility of the chestnut extends beyond traditional farm produce, with the Stanleys creating a range of innovative chestnut-based products, including chestnut-fed pork, creme de marrons, and in partnership with Blackwood Valley Brewing Company, a distinctive chestnut ale and liqueur.

“This award is a testament to our dedication to developing tourism in the Nannup region,” said John Stanley. “Chestnut Brae offers a year-round experience for visitors, allowing them to immerse themselves in the beauty of the area while enjoying unique chestnut-themed activities.”

The recognition is expected to boost tourism in the Nannup region, cementing its position as a burgeoning rural tourism destination. For those seeking a unique and authentic agricultural experience, Chestnut Brae offers a range of options, including daily farm tours, farm stay accommodations, and a delightful selection of chestnut-based products.

Ready to experience the magic of Chestnut Brae for yourself? Visit their website at chestnutbrae.com.au to book a tour or discover their diverse range of offerings.

Words by:

Andy Burns

Andy Burns is a driving force in the Western Australian tourism industry, currently serving as Vice-President of the WAAA. He’s the Founder of Scott Aussie Tourism Marketing, a South West WA-based agency specialising in helping tourism businesses thrive in the digital age. Scott Aussie offers a full range of marketing services, from strategic planning and branding to content creation, social media management, and AI-powered solutions. Andy’s deep understanding of the tourism landscape, combined with his expertise in destination marketing and community engagement, makes him a sought-after advisor, speaker, and trainer. He’s a regular presenter at industry conferences and workshops, sharing his insights on topics ranging from digital marketing strategy to the future of tourism. Andy is also a member of the Manjimup Tourist Bureau and a Councillor at the Shire of Manjimup. His previous leadership roles include six years on the board of Tourism Rockingham and five years as Chair of a Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attraction (DBCA) advisory committee.