Gulbarn founder Samara Billy launched the Gulbarn tea business in 2015 with a stall at Barunga Festival. 

Samara has lived in Minyerri all of her life, she is passionate about creating opportunities for the young people in Minyerri including her three daughters: Jayzena, Ashlene and Letty.

Gulbarn has always been a family operation, with Samara supported by a big team of family members who assist with a variety of tasks including harvesting, operations and marketing.

Six years on, Gulbarn is still going from strength-to-strength with stockists around the country. Gulbarn is also served at top restaurants including Attica, Fleet, Navi and Poly.

Samara and her ancestors have sustainably managed and harvested this ancient medicinal plant since time immemorial. The community leads local biodiversity conservation efforts, ensuring Gulbarn is collected (it is still picked by hand) and protected in line with cultural values and traditional ecological knowledge. 

Gulbarn has an unmistakably Australian aroma, and a subtle flavour with notes of sweet citrus, tea tree and eucalyptus. High in antioxidants, caffeine-free and a rich source of calcium, magnesium and potassium, it can be enjoyed hot or cold.  

ELP is currently managing an ownership transition process with Gulbarn. You can read more here.