Cobbitty Turf Celebrates 40 years
More than 40 years ago, Geoff Hatton Senior made a decision that would shape not only his future, but that of an entire family business. After years in greenkeeping, he was ready for a change.
“I was sick of working under committees. I wanted to go into business for myself.”
With a strong background in golf course construction and landscaping, Geoff began working across large-scale projects while holding onto a bigger ambition, owning his own turf farm. That vision stayed with him for years as he searched for land up and down the coast. An early opportunity in Cobbitty in 1985 slipped through his fingers, but not long after, a chance conversation led him to approach Sydney University with an idea. He offered to lease land to start a turf farm. They agreed, and from there everything began to unfold.
Building the Foundations of Cobbitty Turf
By 1987, Geoff and his family had purchased their first property, 43 acres at Theresa Park. The land had previously grown turf, but only a poor-quality kikuyu that was not suitable for harvesting. Undeterred, Geoff worked tirelessly, balancing farm work with landscaping jobs and council contracts while building the family home on weekends.
In the early years, progress was slow. The original kikuyu failed to meet expectations, prompting a fresh start. A new variety, Greenlees Park couch, was planted along the river flats and marked a turning point. “I will never forget mowing it with my little three gang trailing mower. They were some of the best days of my life.”
A Defining Moment in 40 Years of Cobbitty Turf
From there, the farm steadily expanded. The mid 1990s brought a pivotal moment for both the business and the wider turf industry. Alongside respected industry figures, Geoff was introduced to a new buffalo grass variety being developed by Brent Redman.
Recognising its potential immediately, the group encouraged formal registration and patenting. Soon after, licences were issued for what is now known as Sir Walter DNA Certified, a variety that would go on to become one of Australia’s most recognised turf grasses. The Hattons were among the first licensed growers.
Expanding the Reach of Cobbitty Turf
As the business grew, so too did its reach. Over the next two decades, the Hattons remained closely connected to their roots in sports turf construction. It was during this time that Geoff Hatton Junior became more involved in the overall management of the business.
From Adelaide to Darwin, they delivered high-quality sports fields, contributed to major golf course projects, and played a significant role in horse racing track construction. Their expertise led to involvement with five Olympic venues for the Sydney 2000 Games, including acting as principal contractor for two and maintaining the softball and baseball facilities in Blacktown throughout the event.
During this period, Geoff Snr also identified an opportunity that would expand the business further. After attending an international turf conference in the United States, he discovered the Koro Field Topmaker system, now known as Koro by Imants FTM.
Bringing this technology back to Australia helped transform turf renovation practices. The family became Australasian distributors and continue in that role today through their sister company, Sustainable Machinery, which represents brands including Imants, Foley and Vredo.
From walk behind Ryan turf cutters and manual loading to robotic harvesters and mechanised delivery systems, the evolution of Cobbitty Turf has reflected the broader changes in the industry. Throughout it all, the focus has remained on producing high quality turf. Joining the Lawn Solutions Australia network strengthened this commitment, providing Cobbitty Turf with access to some of the most amazing cultivars and species in turfgrass available, keeping their pride of product intact.
For the next generation, Geoff Jnr’s children Alex and Allira Hatton, the journey has included significant challenges. In 2022, devastating floods brought operations to a complete stop. Three major flood events within 12 months caused widespread damage and left a lasting impact. “Hearing the air rising from the ground for days after the water went down, and dealing with the aftermath is something that stays with you.”
For nearly six months, not a single roll of certified turf was sold. What followed was two years of rebuilding, paddock by paddock, with a small team of just Geoff Jnr, Alex and Allira. It was a defining period for the business.
The Future of Cobbitty Turf
Today, the farm is thriving once again. Lush green paddocks are back in production, turf is being harvested daily, and deliveries are running six days a week. For Alex and Allira, the transformation has been remarkable. “It is the best we have ever seen the place. The people we work with now are amazing and we have built a strong culture where everyone has each other’s backs.”
More than just a business, Cobbitty Turf remains a family legacy built on hard work, innovation and a genuine passion for turf. Alex and Allira reflect on this journey, “There are still challenges ahead, but that is how we have always grown, and we hope that’s how it will always be. If we are honest with you, we are proud to be a part of it.”
“After 40 years doing what we do best, we just have one question… where did the time go?”