Growing up on a dairy farm, Kelly Johnson learned early on the value of hard work, the beauty of fresh produce, and the heartbreak of seeing perfectly good food go to waste. Years later, as a mum of three juggling family life and the challenges of providing healthy meals, those memories took on new meaning. Determined to make a difference, she launched Woodlane Orchard, a brand dedicated to transforming surplus farm produce into wholesome, convenient meals for families. What began as a kitchen project driven by love and sustainability has evolved into a movement against food waste that is nourishing families, supporting farmers and inspiring others to eat with purpose. They have also gone on to develop Sphiker, offering lightweight, home-compostable meals made from rescued produce – perfect for families, hikers and outdoor adventurers who care about the planet as much as what’s on their plate.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
Launching Woodlane Orchard has been a journey deeply rooted in my passion for nourishing families and my commitment to sustainability. Growing up on a dairy farm, I was surrounded by the beauty and hard work involved in food production. I learned to appreciate the dedication farmers put into growing our food, but I also witnessed the heartbreak of wasted produce and beautiful fruits and vegetables discarded simply because they didn’t meet supermarket standards.
As a mother of three, these experiences became even more personal. I faced many challenges in providing healthy meals, especially for my children with special needs. Convenience often pushed us toward unhealthy choices, and I knew many other families were likely facing the same struggles. I wanted to change that story.
The turning point for me came when I saw a friend having to grow, pick, cut, dry and throw away a ton of peaches every year. It made me look around at all the other local farmers unable to sell surplus and seconds and I wanted to make a difference. Seeing the quality and flavour in those peaches sparked my passion for supporting local. From these humble beginnings, I turned Woodlane Orchard into a brand that not only offers delicious meals but also champions sustainable practices.
I truly believe every meal matters. By transforming surplus produce into wholesome options, I can help reduce food waste while nourishing families. This vision inspired me to create a diverse range of products, all designed to make healthy eating accessible and convenient.
In essence, my inspiration comes from a blend of personal experiences, a love for food and a desire to make a positive impact on our food system. Woodlane Orchard is not just a business to me; it’s a commitment to nurturing our families and the planet.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
The story of Woodlane Orchard began simply. I wanted to create a sustainable food option that nourishes families while reducing food waste. Growing up on a farm, I witnessed the dedication and hard work that goes into food production. However, it was disheartening to see perfectly good produce discarded simply because it didn’t meet the superficial standards of supermarkets. This experience sparked my passion for food and my commitment to sustainability.
In the early days, I started small, rescuing surplus and ‘seconds’ produce from local farmers. This was my way of addressing both food waste and the need for nutritious meals. I began developing recipes that showcased the natural flavours of these ingredients, emphasising quality over quantity. This commitment to using whole, real foods led to the birth of Woodlane Orchard, where every product was crafted with care and intention.
As the brand grew, I realised that many families were looking for convenient, nutritious options that could support their active lifestyles. This insight inspired me to expand our offerings and explore how we could cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families on the go. I wanted to create meals that were not only healthy but also easy to prepare and consume in various settings.
This led to the creation of Sphiker, a line of lightweight, home-compostable meals specifically designed for hiking, camping and busy lifestyles. The Sphiker meals are made from the same high-quality, rescued produce as our Woodlane Orchard products but packaged in a way that meets the needs of adventurers and families on the move.
The transition from Woodlane Orchard to Sphiker was a natural evolution, driven by a desire to make nourishing food accessible in more settings while continuing our commitment to sustainability. With Woodlane Orchard, we aim to empower families to enjoy real food without compromising on quality, and Sphiker for eating in the great outdoors.
In essence, the journey from Woodlane Orchard to Sphiker reflects my dedication to nourishing families, supporting local farmers, and creating a more sustainable food system. Each step of this journey has reinforced my belief that we can make a difference, one meal at a time.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
The journey of Woodlane Orchard has been filled with challenges and learning opportunities, but one of our most significant breakthroughs has been the development of Sphiker and its packaging. As we sought to create meals that cater to busy families and outdoor enthusiasts, we recognised that convenience should not come at the expense of sustainability.
The realisation that our Sphiker meals could be packaged in home compostable packaging was a game changer for us. This innovation aligns perfectly with our mission to reduce food waste and promote environmentally friendly practices. By using compostable materials, we are not only providing our customers with a convenient meal option but also ensuring that our packaging contributes positively to the environment.
This breakthrough allowed us to differentiate Sphiker in a crowded market. Parents and outdoor enthusiasts are increasingly looking for options that reflect their values – healthy eating and environmental responsibility. By offering meals in home compostable packaging, we are not only meeting this demand but also empowering our customers to make choices that are kinder to the Earth. Our next move will be to transition Woodlane Orchard into the same responsible packaging to ensure we are a leader in sustainable food practices, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement.
In essence, the biggest breakthrough for us has been the combination of our delicious, nutritious meals with sustainable packaging solutions. It’s a step forward that embodies our dedication to both nourishing families and protecting our planet, and we are excited to continue innovating in ways that make a positive impact.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Finding balance between work and family is often a delicate dance, much like the philosophy of Yin and Yang – the harmonious interplay of opposites. As a mother and entrepreneur, I strive to embody this balance in my daily life, ensuring that both my family and my business receive the attention they deserve.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent over 12 years as a stay-at-home mom, a decision that was vital for providing the support my children needed, especially during their frequent hospital stays and surgeries. Those years allowed me to be present during critical moments in their lives, helping them navigate challenges and fostering a nurturing environment.
As my children have grown, my commitment to them remains unwavering. One of my children has been diagnosed with MS, which has only deepened my resolve to prioritise time for them. They are my world, and their well-being continues to shape my decisions. I want to show them that with dedication, pride and determination, they can turn their dreams into reality.
In my journey with Woodlane Orchard, I have found a way to blend my passion for entrepreneurship with my role as a mother. My business embodies the same values I instilled in my children: hard work, resilience and the importance of making a positive impact on our community through sustainable food practices.
Yin represents my nurturing side – my role as a mother. Family time is sacred, and I prioritise being present for my children. Whether it’s cooking a meal together, attending medical appointments or simply enjoying outdoor adventures, I aim to be fully engaged during these moments, putting aside any work-related distractions.
On the other hand, Yang symbolises the ambition that fuels my business. My passion for creating sustainable food options motivates me to work diligently, even when the demands of entrepreneurship can be overwhelming. I dedicate specific hours to my business, ensuring that I remain focused and productive during that time.
Achieving this balance requires establishing boundaries and being intentional with my time. I’ve learned to prioritise tasks and delegate responsibilities when necessary, allowing me to maintain control over my schedule. I set aside specific work hours to focus on Woodlane Orchard, and once my workday is done, I shift my focus back to my family.
