A shortlist of Australia’s top primary producers has been revealed for The Weekly Times Coles 2024 Farmer of the Year awards. Representing the best in beef, cropping, dairy, horticulture, and sheep farming, as well as agricultural innovation, these awards celebrate those who are shaping the future of Australian agriculture.
Among the esteemed finalists is the McFarlane family of Wellington Lodge, Tailem Bend, South Australia, who have been nominated for Beef Farmer of the Year. The McFarlanes, long-standing members of Team Te Mania, run one of South Australia’s oldest Angus herds, spanning 7,600 hectares. Their operation integrates 600 breeding cows with an 800-head cattle trading system, combining flexibility with efficiency to navigate seasonal conditions while maintaining profitability.
A pivotal shift in 2010 saw them move away from high-input farming, discontinuing cropping and sheep in favor of a regenerative grazing model. Through rotational grazing, they have significantly improved pasture biodiversity, soil health, and overall sustainability—reinforcing their commitment to long-term land stewardship.
As proud participants in Team Te Mania, the McFarlanes have harnessed the power of superior Angus genetics to build a resilient, productive herd. Te Mania bloodlines provide them with market demand certainty, offering well-bred cattle that deliver on performance.
For producers looking to strengthen their own herds, over 1,000 Te Mania blood females will be available in the Team Te Mania Online Commercial Female Sale in late March. This sale presents a prime opportunity to invest in proven genetics and enhance the consistency and quality of your breeding program.
Congratulations to the McFarlane family and all the finalists—leading the way in innovation, sustainability, and profitability in Australian beef production. The winners will be announced at a special ceremony at the MCG in Melbourne on Friday, February 21.
