Circle Organic Community Farm

Our story begins in the heart of downtown Hamilton where we came together through a wonderful community of food activists. Inspired by farmers who had mentored us, we joined forces with ManoRun Farm and our good friend Molly MacDonald to launch the West Ave Growers in the north end of downtown Hamilton, on West Avenue. We tore up our lawn in front and backyard to grow a bounty of delicious food, which we ate, shared, preserved and sold at the Hamilton Makers’ Market and two restaurants. This time in Hamilton was an important expression of our life journeys coming together. Where Andrew’s interest in food justice had carried him from B.C. to places like Cuba and Milwaukee to learn about urban agriculture in the inner city, Julie had been immersed in work around community food security and food policy. West Ave Growers was a demonstration of our mutual interest in creating something tangible right where we were living. We bid farewell to Hamilton in 2008, but Molly and others carried on the West Ave legacy. The arrival of our son Jonah brought us to Peterborough where we could be closer to family, and so began our journey into rural farming. With the support of Betolianni Organic Farm, Circle Organic found a temporary home in the beautiful rolling hills of Bailieboro. Four years later — with tonnes of knowledge, a few battle scars, great friendships and a dirt-loving kid — we emerged hungry for a life of farming. Our new permanent farm in Millbrook is where it’s happening and we are thrilled to share its richest with you.