Bellarine turkey's search for love begins

LOVE is in the air – and possibly the paddock – as Bellarine Farmgate launches an unconventional matchmaking mission to find a life partner for its most eligible bachelor: Bob the turkey.

Described as “fluffy with a strong waddle game” and rapidly approaching what some might call a midlife crisis, three-year-old Bob is officially on the market and on the lookout for a companion to “gobble with through life”.

“Feathers optional, sense of humour mandatory,” reads the farmgate’s cheeky callout, shared to Facebook last week, pitching Bob as a romantic soul with a love for karaoke (limited to turkey noises), gazing at his reflection and long walks at dusk.

He’s seeking a “sassy turkey hen”, or even a “single bird with a wild side”, to share in the joys of chemical-free compost snacking, and is purportedly protective, loyal and generous with compliments – but don’t mention Christmas and avoid the phrase “You look delicious”.

“He thinks he’s pretty handsome,” Bellarine Farmgate’s Ed Mylan said.

Described as “fluffy with a strong waddle game” and rapidly approaching what some might call a midlife crisis, three-year-old Bob is officially on the market.

“We want him to be happy because he’s lonely, so we want a nice partner for him – a good looking little turkey, that’s what we want. Only the best for Bob.”

The lovebird operation comes as Bellarine Farmgate, a cooperative of small growers from across the peninsula, marks one-year at its home in Murradoc Road, after making the shift from the nearby Tuckerberry Hill Farm.

Mylan said the farmgate’s market, which operates on Saturdays and Sundays and supports more than 60 local producers, had tripled its sales since the move and invited the community to help celebrate the milestone today (Saturday, July 5).

Live music will begin at 10am, kicking off a laid-back morning of tunes, tucker and banter, with a coffee truck, popcorn and barbecue on site.

“The quality of the food we offer here is second to none,” Mylan said.

“Come out for some food, do some shopping, enjoy the day and celebrate with us for our first-year anniversary.”

Bellarine Farmgate is at 218 Murradoc Road, Drysdale.