Harvester: Noojee Alpine Trout & Andrew Baterilo, a next generation trout farmer

Andrew Batarilo's path to managing Alpine Trout Farm Noojee was paved by his father, Mate Batarilo, whose love for fishing first drew him to the farm decades ago. As a young boy, Andrew remembers his family stopping at the farm after an unsuccessful fishing trip, ensuring they had fresh trout for dinner. That early experience sparked a lifelong connection to the land and the water that would one day shape his career.

Five years ago, Andrew found himself back at the very same trout farm, this time with a much bigger decision to make. The farm was up for auction, and Mate, recognizing its potential, saw an opportunity to rebuild the business. With Mate’s guidance and a shared vision, Andrew, along with his uncle and cousin, purchased the farm, taking on the challenge of restoring its 58 ponds and transforming it into a sustainable operation.

Since then, Andrew has led the farm through a significant evolution. He began by draining and reinforcing each pond, applying a clay base and building strong banks to create an optimal environment for the fish. Today, under Andrew’s careful management, the farm stocks about 140 tonnes of trout, with low stocking densities to ensure minimal stress and high-quality fish. This meticulous approach has resulted in a remarkably low mortality rate, a testament to Andrew’s commitment to sustainability and fish welfare.

“This water passes through wild channels designed by Andrew to naturally filter runoff, ensuring that the water re-entering the river is clean, often even cleaner—a process regularly confirmed by EPA testing.”

Andrew's dedication extends beyond the farm’s ponds. He has implemented a water management system that carefully conserves and protects the local environment. Drawing water from the La Trobe River, the farm uses it to oxygenate the ponds before returning it to the river. This water passes through wild channels designed by Andrew to naturally filter runoff, ensuring that the water re-entering the river is clean, often even cleaner—a process regularly confirmed by EPA testing.

Though Andrew now runs the farm, Mate’s influence remains strong. Andrew often jokes about how his father still prefers fishing in the wild, finding the farm ponds "too easy." However, Andrew’s focus is on carrying forward his father’s legacy while making a meaningful impact on the local community and beyond.

Alpine Trout Farm Noojee is more than just a business; it’s a symbol of the importance of supporting small, independent farms. Andrew Batarilo’s work ensures that the farm not only produces exceptional trout but also plays a critical role in preserving the integrity and diversity of our food system. By supporting farms like Andrew’s, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.