Glenross Station

Situated 20km North East of Millicent in South East, South Australia Andrew Kellock and his family manage Glenross Station. 

 

Across 3300 hectares the property runs a self replacing composite ewe flock, mating 10 000 mature ewes annually alongside a steer backgrounding operation of 2500 steers and 10 centre pivots used for stock feed and potato production. 

Andrew grew up on a sheep station in Western Australia and spent 3 years on a station in the Northern Territory after leaving school.His first venture into South Australia saw him working on a mixed livestock and cropping operation outside of Robe for 14 years before taking on a mangers role at Glenross. 

We spoke with Andrew to give you an insight into the Glenross operation and their fierce stance on responsible environmental management and animal welfare. 

 

What does a typical year look like for you?

We irrigate over Summer to maintain moisture for the summer crops in November and seeding and fertilizing of pastures in April.

Ewes lamb in June and hoggets commence in August with lamb marking taking place 8 weeks post lambing.

Steers move on and off the property all year, with hay and silage production starting in November, leading straight into shearing throughout late November and December. 

 

What has been your biggest challenge?

Bringing new properties on-line to run efficiently with current ones.

 

What is your favourite time of the year and why?

Spring, new lambs, fat cattle, green feed , good weather.

 

What has been the biggest change in the industry in your lifetime?

Removal of reserve price for wool and the wool market crash.

 

If you has your time over again, would you be a farmer or in a different career and why?

I would still be a farmer. It’s the most important job in the world, feeding people globally, caring for animals and taking care of the environment.

 

If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation / future farmers, what would it be?

Take care of the land and it will not let you down.

 

What is something unique / special about your story?

Managing an operation this size enables us to take livestock from the seedstock breeding operation right through to the consumers plate.

 

What is a regular meal in your household?

BBQ steak and lamb chops

 

Why do you love being a farmer?

Being outdoors in the fresh air.

I have a passion for breeding quality livestock.