A little outback, a lot of crunch
If you’ve ever travelled along the quiet stretches between Wentworth and Pooncarie, you’ll know there’s a special kind of calm that settles over the landscape. Nestled on the picturesque banks of the Darling River, Outback Almonds embodies that same gentle beauty – an almond orchard built on family roots, hard work and a deep love for the land.
Outback Almonds began back in 1998, when Sholto and Julie Douglas planted their first 3,000 almond trees with the help of their children. What started as a modest crop on their riverside property has grown into a thriving orchard and a much‑loved local producer in the Mildura region.
Today, the farm is run by their son Tom and daughter‑in‑law Tegan, who bring fresh energy and a forward‑thinking approach while continuing the family legacy. The orchard now spans 34 hectares, around 9,000 trees, stretching across the red earth in neat, serene rows that follow the curve of the river.
Like all good farming stories, Outback Almonds moves to the rhythm of the seasons. During January and February, harvest begins – a busy, buzzing time when the family works tirelessly to collect the almonds at their peak.
But it’s August that draws visitors from far and wide. For a few short weeks, the orchard bursts into a sea of delicate white blossom. It’s beautiful, ethereal, and entirely unforgettable. Each year, Outback Almonds celebrates this moment with Dining in the Blossom, a one‑night‑only long‑table event held beneath the flowering canopy. This year, the magic returns on Saturday 15 August, with tickets soon to be available via their website.
They offer a delicious selection of almond products – each one crafted from almonds grown, harvested, and prepared right on the farm. The Natural Almonds are a crowd favourite: crunchy, fresh, and perfect for snacking. For something with flair, the Hot & Spicy Almonds bring just the right amount of heat – toss them through a salad or pair them with a cold drink. And if you’re after a treat, the Chocolate-Coated Almonds are rich, smooth and satisfyingly sweet. It’s easy to see why you’ll want to eat more than one container.
For those who want to linger a little longer, Outback Almonds offers a glamping experience that blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Their spacious canvas bell tents are furnished with an elevated queen mattress, fine linen, soft pillows and a cosy doona – so you get all the atmosphere of the outdoors with none of the compromise.
Guests enjoy access to communal amenities including a hot shower, flushing loo, and an outdoor kitchen. Prefer to bring your own setup? BYO camping and caravan sites are available. There’s also a fully self‑contained three‑bedroom cottage for families or groups looking for a country escape with all the comforts of home. Whether you’re sipping a morning coffee overlooking the river or winding down beneath a star‑studded sky, it’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect.
Outback Almonds’ products and accommodation experiences are available to purchase at the Mildura Visitor Information Centre’s gift shop or via their website – so whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or simply stocking your pantry, the taste of the outback is never far away.
Stay connected with Outback Almonds on socials and follow them via Instagram and Facebook.
A little extra love this February
To celebrate both Valentine’s Day and the goodness of heart‑healthy almonds, the Mildura Visitor Information Centre is running a special February promotion. Throughout the month, anyone who purchases any almond product from the Centre’s gift shop will receive a complimentary copy of CRUNCH: Recipes for Every Day by Poh Ling Yeow & Australian Almonds – a delicious collection of recipes that can make the most of our locally grown almonds.
About the Mildura Visitor Information Centre Gift Shop
Looking for unique, handcrafted gifts with a local touch? Look no further than the Mildura Visitor Information Centre. Step inside their gift shop and discover a curated selection of unique products from over 50 local producers and makers. From delicious produce to stunning artworks, stylish homewares and wellness products, you’ll find something to delight every taste and interest. Every purchase at the Centre directly supports the talented artisans and producers who call Mildura home.
180-190 Deakin Avenue, Mildura. T: 03 5018 8380
Open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Weekends 10am-4pm, Public Holidays 10am-4pm & Anzac Day 12-5pm. Closed Christmas Day.
