HUMANS OF MURWILLUMBAH | PART THREE

FABIAN FABBRO

Fabian, born and raised in Cobar, a small mining town in far west NSW, embodies the spirit of resilience, adventure, and entrepreneurial drive. Growing up in a hardworking Italian family, Fabian’s formative years were steeped in the values of determination and togetherness. Weekday afternoons saw him working in the family business packing spuds in a hot tin shed, while Sundays were devoted to family, food, and wine around Nonna’s table. Spare moments were spent exploring the rugged outback with mates, on pushbikes, motorbikes, or on foot, trapping, hiking, and camping.

After completing high school, Fabian joined the Army, serving for 4 years before being honorably discharged in Canberra. At just 22 years old, inspired by his Nonno’s legacy, he launched his own food distribution business. In 2002, Fabian sold the business and transitioned into the pet industry, founding a pet accessory import company that, by 2018, had grown to 25 staff and distributed premium pet products across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.

An avid outdoorsman, Fabian embarked on an ambitious personal challenge in 2014: to climb the Seven Summits and run a marathon on all seven continents. He achieved the Seven Summits in 2018, culminating in the ascent of Mount Everest, and is set to complete the marathon goal in September 2025 at the Patagonian Marathon.

In 2018, after nearly two decades in the corporate world, Fabian and his partner Jodie embraced a new chapter, transitioning to regenerative farming. Their innovative practices include rotational grazing with cattle and chickens and cover cropping to rejuvenate the land. From the farm’s nutrient-rich eggs, Pasta'bah was born, blending Fabian’s Italian heritage with his passion for a sustainable future.

Fabian’s love for food is deeply rooted in his Italian heritage, shaped by his Nonna, a culinary force from Bologna, the world’s food capital. Her unparalleled repertoire of dishes remains a source of inspiration and is still talked about by many with reverence and passion today. Nonna’s influence instilled in Fabian a lifelong appreciation for the art of food, reflected in everything from his entrepreneurial ventures to the quality-driven creations at Pasta'bah.

1. What brought you to Murwillumbah and what do you love most about living in town or in the surrounding areas? Jodie and I first came to town looking for a camping venue for a work conference (Hosana). The drive into town along Tweed Valley Way, through the sugar cane fields, the river, Mt Warning and the boarder ranges in the background was truly captivating. I was born and bred in a small country town in Western NSW and Mur'bah just had that "I'm home" feeling to it.
   
   

2. What inspired you to start your business in Murwillumbah? I've been self-employed since I was 20 years old and enjoy the challenge of running a business. Murwillumbah is ideally located within a stone's throw of major population centres and infrastructure whilst still offering a laid-back country lifestyle. The strength of the "Tweed Valley" brand is still in its infancy, I believe the region has huge potential as a significant national brand when it comes to artisan food production and agrotourism. 
   
   

3. Can you share a story about a time when the Murwillumbah community came together to support one another? There's no doubt the Aussie spirit of community shines brightly when it comes to Mur'bah, and nothing exemplifies that like the past 2 flood events. But more than that, I love how the community comes together on a daily basis to the support local farmers and food producers. Whether it be through the local farmers markets, roadside stalls or thought one of the many retailers in town that stock local produce.
   
   

4. What are some spots in town that you would recommend to visitors? I love the outdoors and one of my favourite things was to sit and watch the sun rise from the summit of Mt Warning. It's a real shame that the ability to experience this has been taken away and is surrounded in such controversy. I'd say to anyone visiting, get out of the car and walk the town as there are lots of hidden gems, then get in the car and enjoy some of the outlying villages with their unique and quirky charm.
   
   

5. How do you envision the future of Murwillumbah? I only see awesomeness! It's important that Mur'bah keeps its laid-back country charm but at the same time, takes advantage of its unique location and beauty to bring economic benefits to the community. I'd love the town to be known for its thriving food scene, agrotourism, nature tourism and boutique accommodation. We need to ensure community infrastructure like the hospital and sporting facilities stay here and are further developed right here in Mur'bah.

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW FABIAN ON INSTAGRAM!