With Christmas right around the corner, those looking for the perfect tree for their home need to look no further than their own backyard.
A local has established an experience where people can pick their own Christmas tree straight from his Barooga property.
Rob Hocking started growing Christmas trees about eight years ago, initially planting 1000 trees.
He said the trees take about five years to grow to a usable height.
“People can come and pick their favourite and I’ll cut it down for them,” Mr Hocking said.
“Since we started selling them about three years ago, it’s been great having families here with the kids running around all excited ― that feels like Christmas.
“Everyone is looking for something different, so this gives them the freedom to find the right tree for them.
“We even had people from Yarrawonga buy a Christmas tree last year.”
Every July, Mr Hocking plants new trees he receives from a friend based in Kialla.
The Christmas trees cover about one hectare of the Barooga property.
While they grow, the trees need to be regularly watered and pruned.
Despite the effort required, Mr Hocking is happy to deliver Christmas cheer to the wider community.
“People love them, they smell nice, they’re fresh and last a long time ― well into January,” he said.
Mr Hocking has taken on the job of running the Christmas tree farm on top of being employed as an Elders stock agent.
His wife Nicole Hocking also runs Floral Love in Cobram.
Mr Hocking said he would try to keep up the tradition of growing Christmas trees over the coming years.
Each tree will be sold for about $60.
Head on over to 276 Kennedys Rd Barooga for a fun, family outing to pick your perfect tree.
To book a visit to the farm, phone Rob Hocking on 0428 712 441.