Roadside trays of fresh mangoes have become a familiar sight for drivers along Brookfield Road, but behind the seasonal fruit stall lies a story stretching back nearly a century. As one Upper Brookfield family prepares to celebrate 100 years on their land, they are reflecting on their legacy while navigating the modern challenges facing small local farms.
The Mohr Mountain Farm has been part of the Upper Brookfield landscape for generations. First established in the mid-1920s, the property has remained in family hands ever since, evolving alongside changes in farming, the local community and consumer demand.
Now, as preparations begin for a centenary celebration with extended family members, the farm represents both a proud history and a hopeful future.
Photo Credit: Mohr Mango Farm/Facebook
A legacy shaped by the land
Over the decades, the farm has adapted to changing conditions and markets. Earlier generations grew a range of produce, reflecting the farming trends and economic pressures of their time. Today, the focus has shifted to mangoes, custard apples and several varieties of avocados.
The farm continues to operate as a family enterprise. While Jenny Mohr and her husband remain actively involved in daily operations, the next generation has assumed primary responsibility for running the business.
Their son, alongside his wife, is leading the farm into its next chapter while balancing the realities of modern work and family life, with him operating a plumbing business and his wife working as a physiotherapist alongside managing the farm. Balancing farming with other careers is now a reality for many rural families. Together, they are raising three young children, adding another layer of complexity to maintaining the family enterprise.
“So now, it’s the fourth generation. Our son is running it with his wife. And my husband and I are helping,” Jenny told Brisbane Suburbs News Online.
Despite stepping back from full-time management, Jenny and her husband remain deeply connected to the land, helping with harvesting, packing and farm operations. Their ongoing involvement reflects the strong generational ties that have defined the farm for nearly 100 years.
Adapting to modern farming
Like many small-scale farms, the Mohr family has diversified its customer reach. While wholesale markets remain important, direct sales have become a significant part of the business.
Mango trays are sold roadside during the season, offering locals fresh produce straight from the orchard. The farm also sells fruit through local country markets, including the Brookfield Country Market, which features locally grown produce and handmade goods from regional vendors. Social media has also become a valuable tool, allowing the family to communicate with customers about harvest times and availability.
Modernisation is also occurring behind the scenes. Plans are underway to build a new packing shed to replace an ageing facility from the 1980s. The updated infrastructure aims to improve efficiency and ensure the farm can continue operating sustainably as the next generation takes over.
New challenges for long-standing farms
While the farm’s history reflects resilience and adaptability, new environmental and operational challenges continue to emerge.
One recent issue has been the discovery of fire ant nests on the property. The invasive species, which has spread across parts of South East Queensland, has added pressure on landholders managing large rural properties.
According to the family, fire ants were first identified on their land in 2024, particularly in bushland areas at the rear of the property.
“We had fire ant nests… and there were nearly 200.”
The treatment process involved multiple visits from authorities and ongoing monitoring over an extended period. While the family welcomed efforts to control the infestation, they described the process as lengthy and sometimes inconsistent, with different teams attending the property over time.
“There were big gaps between when they came and every time they came out, it would be someone different.”
As the conversation turned to fire ants and treatment programs, a neighbour offered a printed handout arguing that insect populations are under pressure and urging caution about pesticide use. While the sheet was a general commentary rather than a farm-specific report, it captured a sentiment heard across the district: that managing invasive pests is becoming entangled with wider community anxiety about chemicals, ecosystems, and water quality.
The issue highlights how invasive species and biosecurity threats are becoming a growing concern for farmers across the region. For long-established family farms, managing these risks adds to the already demanding nature of agricultural work.
Community connections remain strong
Despite the challenges, the Mohr family continues to enjoy strong ties with the Upper Brookfield community. Roadside mango sales often bring returning customers each season, many of whom have supported the farm for years.
Local markets also provide an opportunity to connect with residents and visitors seeking fresh, locally grown produce. These interactions reinforce the importance of maintaining small farms within the region.
The farm’s produce has even been used by local craft producers, further strengthening its connection to the local economy and food culture.
Thriving into the next century
The next generation’s involvement, combined with planned infrastructure improvements, signals a determination to keep the farm operating despite the challenges facing small agricultural businesses.
For the Mohr family, the land represents more than a workplace. It is a place shaped by family history, community relationships, and a deep connection to the natural environment. They hope their story reflects not only endurance, but also the evolving role of local farms in a rapidly changing world.
Published 4-Feb-2026