Page 41 - Fiji Traveller 2024 Issue 6

By Prerna Priyanka Medicinal plants find a place on the farm too, each with its
unique story. Chute points out a plant called magic leaf, used
Nestled in the embrace of the Sleeping Giant Mountain range, for stopping bleeding, revealing its utility in traditional medicine.
Bulaccino's 30-acre farm in Nadi is not just a picturesque scene, The journey wasn't without challenges. The café had to be
but a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Eileen relocated multiple times and dry conditions have affected the
Chute. farm's productivity. Chute's determination, however, remains
From fruit orchards to hardwood forests, medicinal plants to a unwavering.
tilapia pond, and a thriving bee farm, the farm is a symphony of "There's still so much. The weather has been so dry that it's
nature's bounty, carefully curated over the years. really impossible to lose interest," she remarks, demonstrating
Chute's journey began with a simple desire for a small veggie the resilience required in farming.
garden by the Nadi River. As her passion for cultivation grew, Viliame Matanibuka, a farm companion, and Bulaccino’s head
so did her ambition. The farm, once overgrown and neglected, barrister, mentions the upcoming harvest.
became a canvas for Chute's dreams. "In about two months, we'll have avocados coming out of our
"I saw this place, and it just looked like nobody cared about it. ears, and there's like five different varieties," he shares.
You know, it was bush with bits of cane," recalls Chute. Beyond being a thriving agricultural venture, Viliame's
The farm's development unfolded over the years, with Chute's involvement highlights the collaborative effort involved in
daughter and son-in- law joining the venture. The commitment to making the farm a success. The completion of the first phase of
organic practices extends to the Bulaccino café, where surplus development brings the farm closer to integration with Bulaccino
produce finds a purpose. outlets.
"When we have extra, we sell it through the café because it's “The farm is not just about agriculture, it's a space for
all organic," Chute shares. community engagement,” said Viliame.
This commitment to sustainability is further emphasised Meanwhile, Chute envisions a nursery and a picnic area, to
through the integration of livestock like sheep, chicken, and create a space that fosters connection with nature.
ducks into the farm, creating a holistic ecosystem. "I keep thinking, 'What can I do here?' Otherwise, I'll just grow
Chute unveils her experimentation with different crops. From trees around and leave it as a nice area for kids when they come
mangoes for making jam to the introduction of unique Thai fruits, out," she shares.
every element is a testament to her curiosity and love for diverse Chute reflects on her decision to return to Fiji after years of
plant life. international travel. Her dream of starting a café became a reality
She points out plants like tamarind, which she grows for in 2006, marking the beginning of Bulaccino's legacy.
making jam, and introduces a local leaf used for wrapping and "I always dreamt of having a café. So, I said, 'I want to go
frying food in Thai cuisine. home and start my little café.' So that's what I did," she recounts
Her personal touch on the farm is evident. From a carefully with a smile.
curated collection of trees to the vibrant colours of flowers, each Bulaccino, now a well-established business with two cafés in
element reflects her passion for creating a haven for both visitors Nadi and Suva, has its roots deeply intertwined with the vision
and the local community. of its founder.
Beyond its agricultural significance, the farm is an embodiment For Chute, the Bulaccino Garden Farm is more than just a
of family ties. piece of land populated by crops and animals. It's a living canvas
Chute's son, Dirk, tends to the bees that play a crucial role painted with dedication, love, and a commitment to sustainability.
in enhancing the farm's productivity. The bees contribute to the Chute’s journey has turned this once-neglected land into a
pollination of crops and produce exquisite honey, adding a sweet thriving agricultural haven. As the farm continues to evolve, it
touch to Bulaccino's offerings. stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who believe
The farm is an evolving project, transitioning through phases in the transformative power of nature.
of development.
Chute envisions it becoming an attraction for both local and bulaccino.com/farm-tours
international visitors, seamlessly integrated with the Bulaccino
outlets.

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