Living a slower life, supporting and supported by the land. Oh and... growing Truffles.

why frankie + fender?

Francesco (Frankie) and Fender are the OG Truffle Hunters. Brothers from another mother these Lagotto Romagnolos grew up together, and when the time came that we found our perfect site for cultivating Tuber Melanosporum (French Black Truffles) what to name our little piece of Gippsland was staring straight back at us.

why grow truffles in gippsland?

After several trips to Europe - including a visit to the renowned White Truffle Fair in Alba - Simone became completely enamoured with truffles.

What began as a distant dream slowly took shape after meeting Cole, convincing him it was a very good idea!! and together deciding they were ready to trade city life for something new. As two (former) city dwellers, there was plenty to learn—but also the opportunity to start with a clean slate and build something truly their own.

Gippsland quickly stood out: free-draining soils, generous annual rainfall, and close proximity to Melbourne made it an ideal location for a truffière. That said, they’d be lying if they said it was all practical. The sweeping views, the unmistakable Gippsland charm, and the incredible local food and wine sealed the deal.

what do we know about growing truffles?

Lots now, but it’s not their first stock in trade.

Simone, the brains of the operation. A Dentist by day, her strong scientific and biological background plays a vital role in how our Truffiere is cultivated and managed.

Once known for spinning vinyl in some of Melbourne’s top nightclubs, Simone now brings her signature smooth house beats to our events in the hills - creating an atmosphere that’s as memorable as the experience itself.

Cole, the hands-on force behind the day-to-day running of the farm. A reformed corporate warrior, he has traded boardrooms for boots and now spends his days chasing cattle, fixing whatever needs fixing (which, on a farm, is always something), and tending to the land.

From foraging and cleaning to speaking with customers and personally delivering truffles, Cole is involved in every step of the journey - ensuring each Truffle makes it from our farm to your table with the love and care that it deserves.

Fender, the nose that guides our operation, our 13-year-old Lagotto Romagnolo. With a sense of smell second to none, he is focused and determined when working in the Truffiere - an expert at uncovering our hidden treasures.

At home, it’s a different story. Known to swipe the occasional steak, swallow a sock or two. Fender is an adorable nuisance - but you wouldn’t have it any other way.

Francesco (Frankie), RIP Ciccio 20/07/2023.

Brunello (Bruno), joined the Frankie & Fender clan in June 2026. He is starting his training this season, learning from the master (Fender). Look out for him on truffle forages from 2027 onward.