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When it comes to growing food in Bilpin, Aaron Brocken doesn’t do things by halves.
The Harvest Farms founder is known locally for his commitment to organic growing, regenerative practices, supplying produce to top Sydney restaurants and his community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes that deliver seasonal produce to Hawkesbury households. But this March, he’s stepping things up a notch by launching the first annual Bilpin Tomato Festival.
Set for Saturday 21 March 2026 from 3:30pm to 7:30pm at the Kurrajong Heights Bowling Club, Tomato Fest is more than a food event. It’s a celebration of Bilpin’s grower culture and a window into the old-school practices that continue to shape the region.
The idea grew from a humble tradition already happening on with the seed savers club, the Tastiest Tomato Competition. For the past five years, local growers have brought their best cherry and vine tomatoes to be judged purely on flavour. There are no big prizes, just community bragging rights and, perhaps more importantly, the saving of seeds from the winning tomato.
Those seeds are shared through Bilpin’s seed-saving group and garden club, grown again the following season and gradually adapted to local soil and climate. It’s a slow, hands-on way of improving food quality and preserving knowledge that has largely disappeared from modern supermarkets.
“That’s how food culture developed historically. People saved the best-tasting tomatoes each year and grew them again. We’re just doing that here in our own conditions.” Aaron Brocken
Tomato Fest takes that concept and turns it outward — inviting the broader community to step into the world of growers for an afternoon.
The program will include seed-saving and pruning demonstrations, traditional passata-making using classic Italian presses, tomato tastings featuring regional entrants, guest chefs preparing tomato-inspired dishes, and even tomato lawn bowls. There will be Bloody Marys and Virgin Marys, poetry readings, children’s tomato printing activities and live music.
Festival-goers are encouraged to lean into the spirit of the day. Whether that means wearing red, dressing up, or simply coming curious.
For Aaron, the festival taps into something that feels culturally relevant right now. Interest in preserving, fermenting, hosting generous dinner tables and reconnecting with seasonal food is growing. Particularly among younger families and those seeking a slower, more intentional lifestyle.
“There’s something grounding about understanding how your food is grown,” he says. “It’s practical, but it’s also social. It brings people together.”
The festival also comes at an important time for the region following significant apple crop losses this year. By celebrating another beloved crop, organisers hope to support local farmers, small businesses and the volunteer-run Kurrajong Heights Bowling Club.
Ultimately, Tomato Fest is about more than tomatoes. It’s about sharing knowledge, strengthening community and keeping Bilpin’s agricultural heritage alive — one saved seed at a time.
Tickets are $10 for adults, with free entry for children.
For more information on this event, visit www.harvestfarms.com.au
Festival organiser Aaron Brocken making passata from over ripe tomatoes
The program will include seed-saving and pruning demonstrations, traditional passata-making using classic Italian presses, tomato tastings featuring regional entrants, guest chefs preparing tomato-inspired dishes, and even tomato lawn bowls and more.
