Farmer in Focus – Bonza Apples

At the Capital Region Farmers Market, we celebrate the farmers and producers who bring passion and tradition to every piece of produce they sell. Scott Baron from Bonza Apples is one such grower, dedicated to preserving the rich history of apples and keeping forgotten varieties alive for future generations.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Apples

Scott’s connection to apples runs deep—his grandfather, Ben Atkinson, discovered the Bonza Apple in the early 1950s as a seedling on their property. Today, Scott is on a mission to keep the Bonza Apple alive and ensure the name and fruit remain in the public eye. But his passion extends far beyond a single variety—he’s also dedicated to protecting heritage apples, rare and endangered varieties that have been lost from supermarkets in favour of more commercial selections.

Bringing Forgotten Apples Back to Life

For Scott, apples are more than just fruit; they are a living history. Many of the varieties he grows are hard to find, each with its own unique story. One of his most treasured apples is the Five Crown, a variety that dates back to the 1580s. Recognisable by its distinct five “bumps”, this apple is a favourite for cooking.

Scott’s love for heritage apples stems from his childhood memories of picking apples straight from the tree, experiencing their fresh, crisp taste and unique flavours—something that is often lost in today’s mass-produced fruit.

A Resilient Farmer Facing Challenges

Scott planted his heritage orchard 21 years ago and has been attending the Capital Region Farmers Market since 2012, sharing not just his apples but also the rich history behind each variety.

However, farming hasn’t been without its challenges. The devastating Tumut fires in the summer of 2020 destroyed three-quarters of his orchard, leaving him with only 500 producing trees out of the original 2,000. Thankfully, he was left with enough of each variety to continue on and each year production has been increasing.

A Passion for Sharing Stories & Selling Directly

For Scott, selling at the farmers market isn’t just about providing fresh produce—it’s about connecting with customers, sharing the history of each apple, and ensuring these rare varieties don’t disappear. He loves when customers appreciate the uniqueness of each apple and enjoys seeing people discover new favourites.

And speaking of favourites, Scott’s all-time favourite apple? The Bonza, of course! 🍏

Experience Heritage Apples for Yourself

Scott’s stall at the Capital Region Farmers Market is a must-visit for apple lovers. Whether you’re looking for a unique variety to cook with, a crisp apple to eat fresh, or just want to learn more about the fascinating history behind different apples, Scott is always happy to share his knowledge.

Next time you’re at the market, stop by Bonza Apples and taste the difference of a heritage apple—grown with passion, history, and a whole lot of heart.