Meet the Family
Miniature Scottish Highland Cows
WIlliam and Wallace - Less than 1 yr old Steers
Scottish Highland cattle are a heritage breed known for their long shaggy coats and distinctive curved horns. Orginally from the rugged Highlands of Scotland, they have been bred for centuries to thrive in harsh climates, making them one of the hardiest cattle breeds in the world. Their thick double coat protects them from extreme weather, while their calm and friendly nature makes them a favourite among animal lovers. One of their most charming features is the "doosan" - that falls over their eyes, helping to shield them from wind, rain and insects.
Highland cattle were introduced to Australia in the early 1980's, valued for their adaptibility to tough conditions and natural resistance to disease. They are well-suited to Australia's diverse landscapes, from cool mountain regions to open pastures. Unlike commercial cattle, Highlands are slow maturing, producing lean, high quality beef, though many now are raised purely as companion or show animals due to their gentle temperament and striking appearance.
As natural foragers, they can graze on a wide range of vegetation, making them an eco-friendly choice for sustainable farming. Whether they're roaming the paddock or enjoying a brush from visitors, William and Wallace are a beloved part of our farm experience.
Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys
Coco, Banjo & Mr EliasSon
Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys originate from Sardinia and Sicily, where they were used for farm work. Standing 30-36inches tall, they are gentle, affectionate, and easy to handle. Nearly extinct in their homeland they are now popular pets in the US and beyond.
They were first introduced to Australia in the late 20th century. They eat grasses in the wild and hay with supplements in human care. Their lifespan ranges from 20-25 years. Known for their loud vocalisations, they can be heard over a mile away and display a "flehmen response" (lifting up their top lip to show their teeth) when investigating new scents.
Pygmy Goats
LeBron, Becky and Buttercup
The Pygmy goat, originally from West Africa (Cameroon Dwarf Goat), was used for meat before being introduced to European and US zoos in the 1930's. It's small size and friendly nature made it a popular pet.
In 2014, Paul Hamilton (Semtech ABS) introduced US Pgymy genetics to Australia, leading to a genetic recovery program using Australian Miniature Goats. Overtime, the breeds signature traits - short legs, stocky build, straight coat, and frosted markings - become more prominent.
Pygmy goats are inquisitive, playful, and great pets for those with adequate space.
Max Height: 60cms (wither to hoof)
Lifespan: 10-15 years.
Valais Blacknose Sheep
Freya & Thor
The Valais Blacknose sheep originates from the Canton of Valais, Switzerland, where it thrived for centuries in steep alpine terrain and harsh weather. A hardy breed, it has provided meat and wool since the 1400's but was only officially recognized in 1962.
With long white wool, black facial markings, and spiral horns, it is both distinctive and attractive. Known for quality meat and coarse wool, it is commonly used for felting and carpets.
Though rare, the breed now exists in Switzerland, Germany, the UK, New Zealand and the USA with embryos and semen arriving in Australia in 2020. A large, slow maturing breed, ewes are bred from 18 months old averaging 1.6 lambs per year.