S4 Ep 25 - One Family One Flock
One Family. One Flock. That's the extraordinary history that belongs to the Dennis family. Since 1840, each generation has added their own touch to this unique sheep farm and historic homestead, Tardwarncoort in south-western Victoria. It's also home to Australia's first breed of sheep – the Polwarth. And everyone is invited to share in the property's rich history with accommodation and a wool shop open to the public. To learn more, Tom Dennis of the place affectionately known as Tarndie, joins me now.
- Tom's favourite place on the farm is the courtyard.
- His family history on the property goes back to 1840, and they are now the 6th generation on the farm.
- Tom gets us up to speed on what has been happening in the family's farm operation.
- Adapting and "farming people," as Tom says.
- The history of the farm and how it has evolved over the generations, beginning with three brothers.
- The Polwarth breed of sheep, and how this same flock is still flourishing today.
- Their wool is naturally coloured, and the 1970s played a role in influencing this special adaptation.
- The Tarndwarncoort Wool Shop is open four days a week, and they also host guests on the farm.
- The changes in weather and climate over the generations and the pivots the family has made.
- Tom didn't expect to live his life on the land, but he shares how his passion for tourism grew over time and eventually brought him back home.
- The historic homestead, including the preservation and conservation efforts.
- Reflecting on the last 185 years, and how the family is preserving its history and name.
- Tom loves the opportunity to meet people and to be creative.
- He has been surprised by how his love for sheep has grown over the years.
- Succession planning—the process and the reasons behind their approach.
- Agritourism and the common misconceptions surrounding it.
- The most unexpected aspect? Tom has learned to knit!
- The ultimate future for Tarndwarncoort.
We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.
Links:
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Learn more about Tardarncoort
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Published on 6 hours ago