Blue Lake Turf Supplies Begins Its Next Chapter
In the thriving regional hub of Mount Gambier, a new chapter in turf production is taking shape, driven by hard work, family values, and a willingness to embrace change. Blue Lake Turf Supplies, the latest member of Lawn Solutions Australia, is a business built not just on quality turf, but on resilience, reinvention, and a deep connection to the land.
For the Chapmans, the family behind Blue Lake Turf Supplies, the move into the turf industry marks a significant transition. Long-time lobster fishermen operating out of the coastal township of Port MacDonnell, they also balanced beef cattle operations while navigating the uncertainties of overseas markets. Like many in primary industries, shifting global conditions prompted a reassessment, and ultimately, a bold new direction. That direction led them inland and into turf.
After developing a strong interest in the industry and engaging with a respected local grower, the opportunity arose for Tim Chapman to purchase Blue Lake Turf Supplies. While the acquisition provided a foothold in the market, it came with a unique challenge. The established turf farm itself was not included. Rather than deter them, this became the foundation of their story.
Starting from a blank canvas, the family secured a neighbouring parcel of land and set about building a turf operation from the ground up, establishing grass varieties, irrigation systems, and all supporting infrastructure. It has been a steep learning curve, but one embraced with enthusiasm.
At the centre of this transformation is Tom, Tim’s son and Turf Farm Manager, who has taken the lead in developing the farm. His hands-on approach and rapid growth in knowledge have been instrumental in bringing the new operation to life, laying a foundation that will serve the business well into the future.
Support from within the industry has also played a crucial role. The family is quick to acknowledge the guidance of former owner Adam Little, along with the broader Lawn Solutions Australia network. Access to this collective expertise has provided invaluable insight across all aspects of turf production, helping fast-track their development in a highly technical field.
The decision to invest in Blue Lake Turf Supplies was driven by a genuine alignment with the turf industry itself, an industry they see as grounded, forward-looking, and full of opportunity. Combined with the strength of their local region, the outlook is promising. Mount Gambier and the surrounding South East boast fertile soils, abundant underground water, and a growing population, all key ingredients for turf production success.
Blue Lake Turf Supplies is establishing a strong varietal offering tailored to local conditions. They have planted Eureka Kikuyu, RTF tall fescue, TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda, and the newly developed Stampede Hybrid Buffalo, providing a balance of durability, performance, and visual appeal to suit a wide range of applications.
Their alignment with Lawn Solutions Australia further strengthens this offering. As part of the network, Blue Lake Turf Supplies has access to some of the best turf genetics available, alongside rigorous quality assurance systems, best-practice protocols, and ongoing technical support. For customers, this translates to confidence, knowing their turf is backed by one of the most respected organisations in the Australian industry.
From the outset, the business has placed a strong emphasis on doing things properly. Every aspect of the operation has been approached with care and intention, with a clear goal to deliver consistently high-quality turf, every time. Whether for residential lawns, commercial landscapes, or large-scale recreational spaces, the focus remains the same, quality product backed by reliable service.
Looking ahead, Blue Lake Turf Supplies has clear ambitions. Plans are already in place to expand production areas and continue building recognition of the brand across the region. Growth, however, will not come at the expense of standards. The team remains committed to maintaining quality as the cornerstone of their business.
While proud of what has been achieved in a short time, the family is quick to acknowledge that there is still much to learn. It is this mindset, open, grounded, and driven, that will likely define their long-term success.
As they continue to establish themselves within the industry, Blue Lake Turf Supplies represents something many in turf can relate to, a new generation stepping forward, bringing fresh energy while respecting the foundations that came before.
“We look forward to meeting fellow ‘turfies’ from across Australia, and we welcome you to reach out or drop in to say hello if you’re ever in our part of the world.”
