What is Australian Farming Services?

Australian Farming Services (AFS) operates as a vertically integrated almond producer managing orchard cultivation, processing, and export sales from operations in New South Wales and Victoria. According to company materials and regional investment reports, AFS positions itself as Australia's third-largest almond producer, operating three orchards totaling approximately 4,400 hectares with 1.5 million almond trees and a processing facility with documented capacity of 17,500 tonnes annually, designed for expansion to 35,000 tonnes.

The company's operations span three distinct geographic locations: the Cadell orchard (1,680 hectares, 536,000 trees) near Balranald in New South Wales, the Augusta orchard (725 hectares, 229,000 trees) near Kenley in Victoria, and the Canally orchard (1,986 hectares, 710,000 trees) at the confluence of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers in New South Wales. Company documentation indicates these orchards supply the Murray Downs Almonds processing facility near Murray Downs, New South Wales, which commenced commercial operations in April 2024.

AFS almonds are marketed under the Murray Downs Almonds brand for export to global markets. Company materials describe a business model emphasizing environmental sustainability through solar microgrids powering orchard operations, water efficiency management, and by-product repurposing for livestock feed. According to company disclosures, AFS employs more than 150 staff across orchard and processing operations.

Corporate Foundation

Australian Farming Services Pty Ltd was established in 2017 as a privately held company owned by institutional investment managers from Australia and the United States.

Company documentation indicates AFS initially focused exclusively on almond orchard development from 2017 through 2020, establishing and planting its three orchard properties during this period. According to company materials, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 highlighted insufficient almond processing capacity within the Australian industry, prompting AFS to make a strategic decision in 2021 to develop vertical integration by building its own processing facility rather than relying on third-party processors.

Construction of the Murray Downs Almonds processing plant commenced in April 2023, with the facility becoming operational in April 2024. This transition transformed AFS from a pure farming operation into a vertically integrated enterprise controlling the entire supply chain from orchard through processing to global export. Company materials characterize this as positioning AFS as "a major player" with full supply chain control.

The company's executive leadership includes David Armstrong serving as Chief Executive Officer (joined January 2019, with documented experience in agricultural development and large-scale investment management), Josh Forster as Orchards Regional Manager (with AFS since 2018, promoted to regional management in 2022), and Craig Davey as Processing Manager (with background spanning dairy, egg, and pastry processing operations).

Orchard Operations

AFS operates three almond orchards strategically positioned to access water resources from the Murray-Darling Basin river system. Each orchard represents significant capital investment in land preparation, tree planting, irrigation infrastructure, and ongoing development.

Cadell Orchard

Located near Balranald in New South Wales, Cadell encompasses 2,200 total hectares with 1,680 hectares planted to almonds supporting 536,000 trees. The orchard draws irrigation water from the Murrumbidgee River. According to company documentation, Cadell was previously used for broadacre farming before AFS acquired and developed the property, with planting occurring across two seasons from 2017 to 2018.

Cadell hosts Nonpareil, Carmel, and Monterey almond varieties planted at 7 meters by 4.5 meters spacing. Company materials indicate the orchard achieves more than 75% tree coverage and projects annual production of approximately 6,000 tonnes of almond kernels at full maturity. The region receives approximately 389.6mm annual rainfall, with irrigation supplementing natural precipitation.

The orchard operates with a workforce of approximately 56 staff. Pollination services require nearly 8,500 beehives annually at full production capacity, supplied through partnerships with local beekeeping operations according to company disclosures.

Cadell's remote location resulted in the property never connecting to the electrical grid. Company materials document that a 5MW solar microgrid project combining solar panels and battery storage is under development, targeted for completion by 2025. Upon completion, this microgrid will supply over 85% of the orchard's power requirements, significantly reducing reliance on diesel generators that currently provide electricity. Following flooding events, AFS invested in an extensive drainage network to mitigate future flood impacts.

Augusta Orchard

The Augusta orchard occupies 725 hectares supporting approximately 229,000 almond trees in northwest Victoria near the locality of Kenley. Company materials indicate the property was formerly operated as a vineyard before AFS acquisition. According to company documentation, an intensive restoration project was undertaken when the property was acquired, transforming it into what the company describes as an aesthetically pleasing orchard operation.

Specific annual production projections, varieties planted, and detailed operational information for Augusta are not extensively documented in publicly available company materials beyond basic acreage and tree count figures.

Canally Orchard

Canally represents AFS's largest orchard property at 1,986 hectares supporting more than 710,000 almond trees. The orchard occupies a unique position at the confluence of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers within the Murray-Darling Basin, providing access to water from both river systems for irrigation purposes.

Company materials do not provide extensive detail on specific varieties planted, annual production targets, or detailed operational information for Canally beyond the basic property specifications.

Orchard Management Practices

Company documentation emphasizes several sustainability-focused practices across all three orchard operations:

Solar Power Integration: Beyond the Cadell microgrid project, company materials reference solar installations at both Cadell and Canally orchards to reduce diesel generator dependence and carbon emissions.

Water Management: AFS describes implementation of water efficiency measures to minimize consumption while maintaining tree health and productivity across irrigation-dependent operations.

Pollination Services: Company materials indicate partnerships with local beekeeping operations to supply hives during almond flowering periods, supporting both almond pollination and regional beekeeping industry.

By-Product Utilization: Almond hulls and shells are repurposed as livestock feed according to company sustainability documentation, diverting these materials from waste streams.

Processing Infrastructure

The Murray Downs Almonds processing facility represents AFS's vertical integration into almond processing, located near Murray Downs in New South Wales in proximity to the company's orchard operations. The facility commenced commercial operations in April 2024 after construction beginning in April 2023.

Processing Capacity and Technology

Company materials document the facility's initial capacity at 17,500 tonnes per season, with infrastructure designed to enable expansion to 35,000 tonnes capacity. The plant operates on an 18-week seasonal schedule, typically closing each July following harvest completion. Processing rate is documented at 7 tonnes of almonds per hour.

The facility employs LMC brand hulling and shelling equipment, described in company materials as trusted technology in both Australian and U.S. almond industries. Processing infrastructure includes:

Drying System: The plant houses what company materials characterize as the Southern Hemisphere's largest almond dryer, manufactured by Alvan Blanch. This dryer is designed to handle high-moisture almonds that may result from rain events during harvest, helping to preserve quality and reduce crop loss risks.

Quality Control Technology: Tomra and Satake color sorting equipment combined with X-ray sorting systems are installed to ensure product meets customer specifications for both inshell and kernel products. Company materials indicate these systems help maximize crop value by optimizing quality sorting.

Automation: Six Dematic Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) replace what were previously eight manual forklifts, improving safety and operational efficiency while reducing manual handling requirements.

Storage and Distribution: The facility includes refrigerated warehouse space with automated guided vehicle systems for inventory management and order fulfillment.

The strategic location near AFS orchard operations reduces freight distances compared to utilizing distant third-party processors, lowering fuel consumption and reducing wear on regional road infrastructure according to company environmental documentation.

Energy Management

The Murray Downs facility initially draws electrical power from the grid. Company materials indicate plans for a 4.5MW solar farm installation on-site, targeted for operational status by 2026. This solar installation will supplement grid power and support the company's stated commitment to reducing carbon footprint and operational costs.

Third-Party Processing Services

While initially developed to process AFS's own orchard production, company materials indicate the facility "also positions the facility to serve other industry participants in the future," suggesting potential capacity for toll processing or third-party almond processing services. Specific arrangements or availability for third-party services are not detailed in publicly available materials.

Product Portfolio

AFS processes and markets almonds under the Murray Downs Almonds brand. Company materials and industry listings indicate the facility provides hulling, shelling, sorting, grading, packing, and warehousing services for almond products.

Publicly available documentation does not provide detailed product specifications, such as:

• Specific product forms offered (whole kernels, pieces, sliced, diced, meal, etc.)

• Size grades and classifications

• Quality specifications

• Packaging formats and options

• Organic or conventional certification status

• Value-added processing capabilities beyond basic hulling and shelling

Company materials reference processing almonds to "customer specifications" and maintaining "high-quality standards" through advanced sorting technology, suggesting capability to produce products meeting various buyer requirements. However, specific product catalogs, technical specifications, and grade offerings are not published on public-facing platforms.

The Australian Almonds industry supplier directory, where AFS/Murray Downs Almonds is listed, describes the company as being "at the forefront of innovation and quality in the almond industry" with focus on "delivering superior almonds through sustainable, world-class practices," but does not enumerate specific product forms or specifications.

Buyers requiring detailed product specifications should contact AFS directly to discuss available products, quality grades, sizing options, and custom processing capabilities.

Almond Varieties

Company documentation confirms cultivation of the following almond varieties across AFS orchards:

Nonpareil: Referenced as planted at Cadell orchard. Nonpareil is a widely cultivated variety known for its light-colored kernel, smooth appearance, and premium market positioning.

Carmel: Documented as planted at Cadell orchard. Carmel produces medium-sized kernels with fuller flavor profiles and is often used interchangeably with Nonpareil in many applications.

Monterey: Listed as planted at Cadell orchard. Monterey is a self-fertile variety often used as a pollenizer for Nonpareil.

Company materials do not specify varieties planted at Augusta and Canally orchards, nor do they provide varietal proportions across the overall tree population.

Sustainability Initiatives

Mandatory Disclaimer: The following represents publicly stated initiatives documented in company materials. Independent verification of implementation and outcomes would require third-party assessment.

AFS corporate materials emphasize environmental stewardship as a core business principle. Documented sustainability initiatives include:

Solar Energy Implementation: Development of solar microgrids at Cadell orchard (5MW system providing 85%+ of power requirements) and referenced solar installations at Canally orchard. The Murray Downs processing facility plans installation of a 4.5MW solar farm by 2026.

Water Efficiency: Company materials reference implementation of advanced water management technologies and efficient irrigation practices to minimize water consumption across orchard operations that depend on Murray-Darling Basin water resources.

By-Product Utilization: Almond hulls and shells are repurposed as livestock feed rather than treated as waste, according to company environmental documentation.

Freight Footprint Reduction: Strategic location of the Murray Downs processing facility near orchard operations reduces transportation distances compared to utilizing distant third-party processors, lowering fuel consumption and road infrastructure wear.

Fertilizer Technologies: Company materials reference use of "advanced fertilizer technologies" without providing specific details on systems or methods employed.

Company materials characterize these initiatives as supporting a "low-impact business model" focused on environmental stewardship. Specific metrics documenting carbon reduction, water savings, or other quantitative sustainability outcomes are not published in available materials.

Markets & Distribution

Company materials and regional investment publications indicate AFS exports almonds to global markets through the Murray Downs Almonds brand. An October 2025 regional investment publication states the Murray Downs facility enables "direct exports of premium almonds to global markets."

Specific information not publicly disclosed includes:

• Primary export destination countries

• Distribution channels (direct to manufacturers, through distributors, retail, etc.)

• Customer segments served (confectionery, bakery, snack foods, retail, etc.)

• Export volumes or percentages

• Sales office locations or international presence

Company materials describe AFS as operating across "the entire almond value chain" from production through "sales" but do not detail sales infrastructure, marketing teams, or distribution networks in publicly available documentation.

Buyers interested in sourcing Murray Downs Almonds products should contact AFS directly to discuss export capabilities, minimum order quantities, delivery terms, and market-specific requirements.

Certifications & Quality Standards

Mandatory Disclaimer: The following certifications are referenced in company materials and certification databases. AgriLinkage has not independently verified current validity, scope, or compliance status. Certification standing can change based on audit outcomes. Buyers requiring certified products should request current documentation directly from the supplier and verify validity with issuing bodies.

Publicly available company materials do not explicitly detail third-party certifications such as:

• Food safety certifications (HACCP, FSSC 22000, BRCGS, etc.)

• Quality management systems (ISO 9001, etc.)

• Organic certifications

• Sustainability certifications

• Export market-specific certifications

Company materials reference "high-quality standards" and advanced quality control technology including Tomra and Satake color sorters and X-ray sorting systems, but do not specify third-party certification schemes governing operations.

As a facility processing almonds for export markets, Murray Downs Almonds would typically require compliance with Australian export regulations and destination country import requirements. Specific certifications maintained by AFS are not enumerated in publicly accessible documentation.

Buyers requiring specific certifications for their supply chain compliance should request current certification documentation, scope of coverage (which facilities and products are certified), and certification body contact information for independent verification directly from AFS.

Information Currency and Verification

This company profile reflects publicly available information from Australian Farming Services' official website (ausfarmingservices.com.au), the Almond Board of Australia supplier directory, Invest River Country regional investment publication (October 2025), ZoomInfo and Crunchbase business databases, and company registry information. Time-sensitive data including production volumes, facility capacities, tree counts, employee numbers, and sustainability metrics may change. Users requiring current information should contact the company directly.

The Murray Downs Almonds processing facility is newly operational as of April 2024, representing a recent addition to Australian almond processing infrastructure. Operational performance data, quality certifications, and market penetration are still developing as the facility establishes its market position. Information presented reflects company materials and plans as of early 2026; actual outcomes may vary as operations mature.

Certification validity and compliance status can change based on audits and operational changes. Buyers requiring certified products should request current documentation from the supplier and verify validity with certification bodies.

AgriLinkage has not conducted independent verification of operational capabilities, facility conditions, sustainability claims, or compliance status. Commercial parties should conduct independent due diligence appropriate to their transaction requirements, including facility visits, product sampling, reference checks with existing customers, and verification of all material representations.

Production projections, particularly the Cadell orchard target of 6,000 tonnes annually, represent company forecasts based on orchards reaching full maturity. Actual production will depend on tree maturation, weather conditions, water availability, and agronomic factors.

Accessing Current Information

Parties interested in sourcing almonds from Australian Farming Services should contact the company directly to obtain current product specifications, available product forms, pricing, minimum order quantities, lead times, export capabilities, and certification documentation.

Corporate Contact:
Australian Farming Services Pty Ltd
Shop 6 / 840 Fifteenth Street
Mildura, Victoria 3500
Australia

Mailing Address:
PO Box 52
Tooleybuc, New South Wales 2736
Australia

Telephone: +61 (03) 5023 8747
Email: info@ausfarmingservices.com.au
Website: ausfarmingservices.com.au

Buyers should specify required products, volumes, quality specifications, certification requirements, and delivery destinations in initial inquiries to facilitate accurate quotations and assessment of AFS's ability to meet specific requirements.

Conclusion: Australian Farming Services' Position in the Australian Almond Industry

Australian Farming Services represents a vertically integrated, institutionally backed almond producer combining substantial orchard holdings (4,400 hectares, 1.5 million trees) with newly commissioned processing infrastructure (17,500-tonne capacity, expandable to 35,000 tonnes). According to regional investment materials and company positioning, AFS ranks as Australia's third-largest almond producer, though this characterization likely reflects planted acreage rather than current production tonnage given the relatively recent orchard establishment (2017-2018 planting).

For buyers seeking Australian-origin almonds, AFS offers direct access to a vertically integrated supplier controlling production from orchard through processing, potentially providing supply chain transparency and traceability advantages. The company's emphasis on sustainability through solar power integration and water efficiency may appeal to buyers with environmental sourcing requirements, though third-party verification of these claims would strengthen credibility.

The Murray Downs Almonds processing facility's April 2024 commissioning means the operation has limited track record compared to established Australian almond processors with decades of operational history. This recent entry creates both opportunities (modern equipment, latest technology) and considerations (limited customer references, developing quality systems, unproven operational consistency). Buyers should weigh these factors in sourcing decisions and may wish to request trial shipments, facility visits, or phased supply agreements as the operation establishes its market reputation.

The designed expansion capability to 35,000 tonnes suggests AFS anticipates significant production growth as orchards mature and potentially plans to service third-party growers beyond its own fruit. This expansion potential may benefit buyers seeking growing supply partnerships, though current capacity and production should be verified directly given the nascent stage of operations.

This profile provides background context for initial evaluation of Australian Farming Services as a potential almond supplier. Current commercial engagement requires direct contact with AFS to verify product availability, specifications, certifications, pricing, and delivery capabilities. Independent verification of facilities, quality systems, customer satisfaction, and operational track record remains essential for informed sourcing decisions in international almond procurement.