On The Land
11 April, 2026
Mareeba’s coffee capital status grows
MAREEBA region’s claim to be the “coffee capital” of Australia has taken a further step forward with the launch of Caamano Coffee facility near Emerald Creek.
Well-known farming couple Jose and Debbie Caamano certainly have seen many changes in the region’s cropping since 1982 when José Caamaño embarked on a journey from Spain to Australia, seeking new opportunities.
First settling on Groote Eylandt, José met Debbie, and together they planted the seeds of a lifelong partnership.
In 1983, they moved to Walkamin, where they established their first farm.
Despite facing farming and other challenges including the Black Frost of 1985 and Cyclone Winifred in 1986, the Caamaño family persevered.
By 1991, they relocated to Mareeba and transformed an ex-tobacco plantation into a thriving orchard.
Today, the farm boasts 18,000 lime trees and 800 pomelo trees, with a new venture into coffee cultivation beginning in 2020 as Caamano Farms embraced coffee cultivation, planting the first coffee plants and diversifying their agricultural portfolio.
“At Caamaño Estate Coffee, we are committed to sustainability, our local economy, and high-quality products,” Debbie said.
“Our coffee is Caamaño Estate Coffee is grown and roasted right here on the Atherton Tablelands, and ensures freshness and we also support our local economy.
“Through our Sustainable Farming Practices we employ eco-friendly methods, including shade-grown coffee, organic farming, and efficient water management, which promote biodiversity and reduce environmental impact and by sourcing locally.
“We minimise transportation emissions, support environmental sustainability and thereby reduce our carbon footprint,” she added.
Caamaño Estate Coffee has achieved Reef Certification through the Hort360 GBR Program, which recognises best management practices for protecting the Great Barrier Reef.
This certification is a testament to the Caamaño family’s commitment to sustainable farming practices.
The recent expansion into a new hi-tech sorting and roasting production train on site will guarantee their different coffee beans, grindings, roasting, blending and flavours are produced to the highest possible standards.
The company also produces coffee associated products including a coffee liqueur, chocolate-coated coffee beans and more to come.
The family’s commitment and focus on fully managed responsible coffee production means that at this stage at least, there is no onsite café, but Caamano Estate Coffee can be obtained via growing on line sales, serving local and interstate coffee clients and already there has been keen interest in overseas supply opportunities.
“Our coffee is becoming widely known for its rich flavour and freshness, thanks to careful roasting and quality control processes,” Debbie said.
Overall, Caamaño Estate Coffee’s dedication to sustainability, quality, and community makes it a unique and responsible choice for coffee lovers.
