When two people from farming families came together, driven by the same desire to regenerate and protect their land for future generations, something remarkable emerged. For Andrea Hawkes and Vince Lamattina, that “something” became Clyde Compost. Established in 2016, the business began as a need for a natural, premium compost that improved soil health, as one didn’t exist in the market.
Clyde Compost grew from their challenges watching soil health decline despite management. Wanting a long-term, natural solution, not another quick fix, they began experimenting with compost blends that restored biology, structure and resilience. Months of trialling and refining delivered a product that worked so well on their land it attracted the attention of gardeners, landscapers and commercial growers.
“We understand the importance of providing a safe and healthy environment for families,” Andrea said. “That’s why we’re dedicated to producing a natural, organic compost that’s proudly a certified allowed input for organic farms and gardens.”
A simple philosophy: feed the soil first. Clyde Compost’s premium thermal compost delivers nutrients in a plant-available form immediately, something synthetic fertilisers can’t achieve without microbial activity. Without microbes, nutrient conversion stalls, yields decline and soil becomes depleted. Synthetic inputs can lead to nutrient loss through evaporation and leaching.
By contrast, soils enriched with Clyde compost hold moisture and retain nutrients longer and require fewer additional inputs. Improved soil architecture means growers can reduce watering and fertiliser use while naturally boosting plant strength.
For Vince, this approach runs deep. “My grandfather believed in putting back into the soil, just as you would into a person,” he said. “Dad believed the same. When you give to the land, it gives back more.”
Today, every batch of compost is refined and tested for consistency, safety and biological diversity. The range includes compost blends, topsoils and organic potting mix, available online, through more than 40 stockists including selected Bunnings, and in bulk from their Clyde and Wonthaggi outlets.
Locally produced and family-owned, Clyde Compost is more than a product; it’s a commitment to giving back. Back to the soil. Back to growers. Back to the future of farming and gardening.
