The Hills are alive…

Edit 8. Terra Rossa Truffle Farm, Cockatoo

On the outskirts of the Eastern Dandenong Ranges, opposite the towering Mountain Ash trees of Kurth Kiln Regional Park, lies Terra Rossa — a micro-farm established five years ago by Michael Russo and wife Vanessa.

Almost completely off-grid, Terra Rossa is still evolving, and despite working four days a week, Michael dedicates every other moment to managing and maintaining his land, and with the support of family and community, what he has built is nothing short of remarkable.

The Dandenong Ranges are renowned for their growing conditions, and it was this location that sparked Michael’s imagination: to cultivate something rare, highly sought after, and intriguing — the elusive truffle. With farming is in his blood, along with a career spanning two decades across some of Victoria’s largest Apple Orchards the challenge of becoming a supplier of truffles began to take shape in 2020.

Guided by the truffle-growing community, Michael’s vision steadily evolved. From balancing soil pH to planting 182 Evergreen Oak trees, establishing ideal growing conditions, and training Lexie, his devoted Border Collie, learning has been central to his journey, and within just three years, the unmistakable scent of truffles filled the air, and Terra Rossa’s first harvest — though modest — exceeded all expectations.

Two years on from Terra Rosso’s first harvest, Michael continues to nurture his truffle trees, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of wildlife and ensure future success. Beyond supplying a rare ingredient, his hope is to impart knowledge and confidence to those eager to incorporate truffles into an elevated culinary experience.

Follow Terra Rossa’s journey at @terra_rossa_farm and see how they prepare for the 2026 truffle season as it begins to take shape…