Activities | CORYNNIA STATION

Cotton Gin – RivCott in Carrathool

RivCott Cotton Gin: A Success Story

In 2014, a group of 59 cotton growers in the heart of south-west NSW came together to build a new cotton gin. This collaborative effort resulted in the establishment of a $24 million gin. Located just south of Carrathool on the Sturt Highway, with the capacity to process 150,000 bales of cotton annually. At that time, the gin was a major step forward for local cotton growers.

Fast forward to 2024, and RivCott, located just 20 minutes away from Corynnia Station, has far exceeded expectations. Furthermore, RivCott surpassed the original target of 150,000 bales; it has also grown to become the world’s largest producer of cotton. This impressive transformation highlights the ongoing success and innovation within the cotton industry in south-west NSW.

Today, RivCott is a grower-owned cotton gin, with over 60 grower-owners. Moreover, they contribute over 90% of the cotton processed at the facility.

The cooperative offers contract ginning at competitive prices. The focus is on ensuring that grower-owners benefit from the low ginning fees and from the profits generated by their cotton. Through bale rebates and dividends, grower-owners share in the financial success of RivCott, making it a truly cooperative and rewarding model.

Benefits of Being a Grower-Owner at RivCott

1. Cheaper Ginning Costs

Grower-owners enjoy reduced ginning fees while also benefiting from profits through bale rebates and dividends, ensuring that they receive a fair return on their investment.

2. Control

A grower-owner has a say in how the cotton is ginned. And has the opportunity to be directly involved in the process. This level of control ensures that the cotton is handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

3. Confidence: Being an owner means that you can trust RivCott to treat you and your cotton right. The cooperative’s ethos is on ensuring respect for the grower-owners at every step of the process.

4. Quality Ginning

RivCott is committed to providing the highest quality ginning services. The gin is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of Riverina cotton, boasting advanced features like superior drying and cleaning capabilities.

With more drying and cleaning than any other gin in Australia, RivCott also employs an accurate cotton seed weighing system to ensure optimal results. The use of state-of-the-art technology in air control, automation, drying, as well as cleaning makes RivCott the best choice for cotton growers.

An Exclusive Cotton Gin Tour at Corynnia Station

When you stay at Corynnia Station, you will have the opportunity to experience an exclusive cotton gin tour at RivCott. Conveniently located just a short drive from our farm stay, RivCott offers guests an inside look at the fascinating world of cotton production. Furthermore, this unique tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the cutting-edge processes that have established RivCott as the world’s leading cotton producer.

At Corynnia Station, we take great pride in offering an authentic outback luxury retreat. In fact, a visit to RivCott is the perfect way to enhance your stay with us. Our farm, a working, historic property, provides guests with an exceptional and immersive experience of Australian rural life. Whether you’re here to rejuvenate, reconnect with nature, or simply unwind, Corynnia Station is the ideal destination for a peaceful, restorative, and rewarding escape.

Your Perfect Outback Retreat: Corynnia Station

Corynnia Station is more than just a place to stay – it’s an experience. Located on the road from Sydney to Adelaide on the edge of the outback, our property is a serene oasis that provides a genuine connection with the Australian landscape.

All-weather roads make us accessible to guests arriving by car in all types of vehicles. For those who prefer a more direct route, we also offer two private dirt airstrips. The main airstrip is just steps away from our guest accommodations nestled in a lush homestead garden.

Indeed, our location ensures that you can easily unwind and disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. The tranquil atmosphere of Corynnia Station allows you to relax and recharge, whether you’re spending time outdoors or enjoying the comfort of our luxurious guest accommodations. Corynnia Station is the perfect setting for anyone seeking a true outback luxury retreat.

RivCott’s growth and success exemplify the strength and collaboration of local cotton growers.

Corynnia Station offers the perfect base for exploring this fascinating industry. With exclusive access to RivCott’s cotton gin tour as well as the unparalleled beauty of our outback property, we provide guests with unique opportunites.

Discover Carrathool

Nestled between Narrandera and Hay, Carrathool is a small village 38 km from Corynnia Station. It has a rich history and charming attractions that are waiting to be discovered. Once positioned on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, this quaint settlement has seen its share of transformation, yet it retains a unique character that captivates visitors.

Carrathool’s origins trace back to October 1852 when it emerged as a way station serving travelers between Narrandera and Hay. Initially bustling as a river port, it became a pivotal stop for river steamers starting in 1858; establishing the foundation for the community that would grow around it.

The village is steeped in history, with notable landmarks that tell the tale of its past. The Carrathool Bridge, constructed between 1921 and 1924, stands as a remarkable example of engineering. It is one of the last surviving bascule lift span bridges made from timber, and it’s heritage listed. Although it last opened for river traffic in the 1930s, the bridge still offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. It is a testament to the town’s rich historical narrative.

Must-See Attractions

Carrathool Bridge

This historic bridge, a marvel of design, features a counterweight mechanism that allows it to lift for boat traffic—a feature that hasn’t been utilized since the 1930s. Visiting the bridge offers a tangible connection to the past, and the surrounding area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Pinkers Beach – a Short Distance from Hay

Just 3 kilometers southeast of the village lies Pinkers Beach, an idyllic sandy retreat along the Murrumbidgee River. Here, families can enjoy picnics under the shade of tall Red River Gums, swim in the refreshing waters, or cast a line for a leisurely fishing experience. The vibrant birdlife adds to the area’s charm, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers.

The name “Carrathool” is believed to originate from the Wiradjuri language, meaning “brolga” or “native companion.” This connection to the Indigenous heritage of the area enriches the cultural tapestry of the town and serves as a reminder of the long-standing relationship between the land and its original inhabitants.

As you explore Carrathool, take a moment to appreciate the resilience of this community. The village, once home to over 2,200 residents, now has a population sign that claims 99—though many believe that number may be slightly inflated. Despite this decline, the spirit of Carrathool endures, evident in its welcoming atmosphere and the pride residents take in their heritage.

Carrathool may be small, but its history, charm, and natural beauty make it a captivating destination for those looking to experience a slice of rural Australian life. Whether you’re stopping for a drink at the Carrathool Hotel or enjoying a day at Pinkers Beach; this village offers a unique glimpse into the past, set against the stunning backdrop of the Riverina plain.

Guided Group Garden Tours with Morning Tea served on the Homestead Terrace with your Hostess

Over the years, numerous groups have visited to enjoy Garden Tours in this extraordinary garden, and each guest has been inspired by its splendor. Julie’s garden is more than a visual delight; it’s a place of respite, offering a serene escape from the dry outback landscape.

We invite your group to be part of this ongoing journey. Come and explore Julie’s labor of love, where the beauty of nature certainly meets the spirit of determination. Your experience awaits!

In 1982, Bruce and Julie arrived as young newlyweds. The undeveloped dry area block had been purchased by Julie’s parents, John and Pat Jones, in 1977.

By the time they arrived, there was little or no garden and the 12 square 1930s homestead was riddled with mice and their droppings as well as dust.

Over the years, this once barren and dry landscape has transformed dramatically; both on the busy working station and the homestead garden oasis. Now a well-managed and enchanting country homestead welcomes guests from all over the world to their authentic luxury outback accommodation.

As a young newlywed, Julie had never aspired to be a gardener but her creative spirit dictated she couldn’t live happily and make a home in such awful conditions.

At the heart of this transformation is Julie. Her creative flair and relentless spirit shine throughout the expansive garden she designed and nurtured herself. Armed with just a wheelbarrow, a shovel, some cuttings, and lawn runners—along with a hefty dose of determination—Julie embarked on a journey that would redefine this outback landscape with limited resources and problematic access to water. Rather than having a grand vision she tackled one project at a time. She drew inspiration from each completed endeavor.

This resulted in the vibrant oasis we see today – a refuge and welcoming environment for her family, friends, and visitors to enjoy. During the many drought years, Bruce would come in after a long, difficult day saying that the garden was what kept him sane.

This garden is not just a collection of plants; it’s a lifelong passion project that reflects Julie’s incredible creativity, dedication, and hard work. Each plant you see during the garden tours tells a story of perseverance against the odds, illustrating how beauty can emerge from even the harshest environments. Over the years, Julie has learned what plants thrive in the harsh climate and believes design is more important than the variety of plants. It is of key importance to choose plants that will thrive in one’s specific conditions.

Julie looks forward to welcoming you for one of those garden tours to share the Corynnia Station garden, a little of their lives, and knowledge of plants and garden design.