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The 72nd Annual Hay Rodeo

The Hay Rodeo, one of NSW longest-running rodeos, is set to celebrate its 72nd year on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Hosted annually by the Hay Rodeo Committee, this event has become a much-anticipated fixture for locals and visitors alike. It draws crowds from across the state. Moreover, with its rich history and commitment to showcasing the best in rodeo action, the Hay Rodeo continues to be a highlight of the region’s sporting calendar.

Held at the Hay Showgrounds, located on Showground Road in Hay, NSW 2711, the event promises a thrilling day for the whole family. Whether you’re a rodeo enthusiast or a first-time attendee, you’ll experience an exciting blend of skill, strength, and adrenaline in one of Australia’s top rodeo venues.

Why Attend the 72nd Annual Hay Rodeo?

A Historic Event. The Hay Rodeo is a celebration of tradition, marking over seven decades of rodeo history in the region. As one of the longest-running rodeos in NSW, it has become a cornerstone of Hay Shire’s cultural and sporting identity.
World-Class Rodeo Action. This year’s event will feature top rodeo athletes competing in various events; including bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and more. The Hay Rodeo is renowned for its high-quality competitions that showcase the skills of both local and national competitors.
Family-Friendly Fun – With a range of activities for all ages, the Hay Rodeo is the perfect outing for families. Enjoy the excitement of the rodeo, explore the event’s activities, and make memories with loved ones.
Accessible to All – The Hay Rodeo Committee takes pride in ensuring that the event is accessible to everyone. Whether you have mobility challenges or other access needs, the venue is fully equipped to accommodate all guests, so everyone can enjoy the day.

Hay Rodeo Event Details:

Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Location: Hay Showground Road, Hay NSW 2711
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Event timings may vary)
Entry: Tickets available at the gate or online

Facilities & Services:

The Hay Rodeo is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Key amenities include:

Bar – Grab a drink and relax while watching the rodeo action.
Cafe – Enjoy delicious food and refreshments, including snacks and full meals, throughout the day.
Car Park – Ample parking is available for guests arriving by car, ensuring easy access to the event.
Coach Parking – For larger groups or visitors arriving by coach, dedicated parking spaces are provided.
Public Toilets – Conveniently located restrooms for all attendees.
Family-Friendly – A welcoming atmosphere for families, including special activities for children.

Stay at Corynnia Station – Your Ideal Accommodation Near Hay Rodeo

We warmly welcome guests to Corynnia Station, ideally located just a 1-hour drive from the Hay Rodeo. Our farm stay provides a tranquil, luxury retreat in the heart of the Australian outback, offering a unique experience to complement your visit to the rodeo. After an exciting day at the Hay Rodeo, unwind and relax in the peaceful surroundings of our working farm, complete with comfortable accommodations and a serene garden oasis.

At Corynnia Station, we offer a true outback experience, where you can rejuvenate, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the beauty of the region. Our location makes it the perfect base for exploring the Hay Rodeo and surrounding areas. Whether you’re planning to attend the rodeo or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Corynnia Station promises an unforgettable experience.

Making the Most of Your Visit to Hay

Whether you’re attending the rodeo for the first time or you’re a seasoned visitor, there’s much more to explore in the vibrant town of Hay. In addition, known for its rich agricultural heritage and charming rural landscapes, Hay offers a unique experience for those who take the time to visit. Be sure to check out the local shops, cafes, and attractions before or after the event.

Stay Updated and Plan Your Visit

Keep an eye on the official Hay Rodeo website and social media pages for more details, including ticketing information, event schedules, and updates. Furthermore a tradition of excellence and a passion for rodeo, the Hay Rodeo Committee ensures that every year’s event surpasses expectations. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this historic and action-packed day!

In addition, more information is available at Email: hayrodeo@bigpond.com Phone: 0405 063 353

Plan Your Trip Today!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 1, 2025, and join us for the 72nd Annual Hay Rodeo, an event that promises fun, excitement, and a true taste of Australian rodeo culture. And for the perfect stay near the event, book your accommodation at Corynnia Station – your ideal retreat just an hour away from all the rodeo action!

Join the Riverina Classic Fishing Competition

Join the Riverina Classic Fishing Competition -Planning a trip along the Kidman Way in 2025? Make sure to stop at the Riverina Classic Fishing Competition from February 7-9 in Darlington Point. This exciting event is a major NSW catch-and-release fishing competition. It’s also a family-friendly weekend with fun activities for all ages, including live entertainment, a boat raffle, and the release of native fingerlings.

Explore Darlington Point: A Beautiful Destination on the Murrumbidgee River

Known affectionately as “The Point,” Darlington Point lies on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. It offers some of the most scenic camping and leisure spots in the Riverina. Spend your days fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating before continuing your journey along the Kidman Way.

Discover Darlington Point’s History and Culture

Like many Riverina towns, Darlington Point started as a river-crossing settlement before evolving into an agricultural hub. It now produces fruit, vegetables, grains, and rice. To learn more about the town’s past, visit the Darlington Point Museum, which showcases antique farm and domestic equipment.

Furthermore, the town’s Aboriginal heritage is celebrated at the Waddi Cultural Centre. This vibrant building, adorned with colorful Indigenous artwork by renowned artist Allan McKenzie, promotes and preserves the local culture, heritage, and arts of the Waddi people.

Explore the Iconic Kidman Way and Join the Riverina Classic Fishing Competition

The Kidman Way is a 400-mile (643 km) highway in New South Wales, Australia. Moreover, it’s a popular road trip destination for travelers eager to explore the Outback. The highway connects the Newell Highway to other major routes, passing through charming towns, historic pastoral stations, and expansive bushland.

What to Know About the Kidman Way:

The Kidman Way is certainly accessible by two- or four-wheel drive.
It is named after Sir Sidney Kidman, whose vision was indeed to open up inland Australia.
The highway runs north-south through New South Wales, from Bourke in the north to just north of Jerilderie in the south.
Key towns along the route include Cobar, Griffith, Hillston, Darlington Point, and Coleambally.

Things to Do Along the Kidman Way:

Visit Safari Park, located east of Darlington Point.
Fish for Murray Cod in the Murrumbidgee, Lachlan, and Darling Rivers.
Explore historic pastoral stations like Corynnia Station.

Stay at Corynnia Station: Your Authentic Outback Luxury Retreat and Join the Riverina Classic Fishing Competition

For an unforgettable outback experience indeed, stay at Corynnia Station. This historic working farm offers guests a truly unique and luxurious escape on the edge of the Australian outback. Moreover, with its stunning landscapes and peaceful surroundings, Corynnia provides an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic outback lifestyle.

All in all, as a guest at Corynnia, you can enjoy a range of activities, including the chance to participate in the Riverina Classic Fishing Competition. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, Corynnia Station is a prime location. After a day of fishing, relax in the comfort of your luxury accommodation, and soak in the beauty of the surrounding outback.

Certainly, Corynnia Station is the perfect base to explore the Kidman Way and all its offerings. The station provides an authentic outback experience with modern comforts, making it the ideal retreat for travelers seeking relaxation.

Make your stay at Corynnia Station part of your journey along the Kidman Way. It’s the perfect destination for an outback experience you’ll never forget!

Carrathool Races – A Long Tradition

The Carrathool Races are the epitome of the ‘bush race’ meeting. Organised by the Carrathool Jockey Club in the small town of Carrathool, located only 38 km from Corynnia Station. The small community of 99 friendly souls, bursts at the seams with over 2,500 excited race lovers and larrikins ready for the annual race meeting.

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.

The Carrathool Jockey Club was established in 1883 and has been successfully carrying on the tradition of country racing in western NSW for 135 years! This is a great achievement for a small but tight-knit and hard-working community.

Office Bearers

President – Scott Dixon
Treasurer – Mark Cameron
Racing Secretary – Boo Harvey
Public Officer – Boo Harvey

For additional information visit Carrathool Races

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.

Stargazing and Astrophotography at Corynnia Station: January is Special

Looking for an authentic outback luxury experience? Corynnia Station offers an unforgettable retreat on the edge of the NSW outback. Our 17,000-acre working farm blends natural beauty with modern farming, providing guests with an exclusive opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re here to relax, rejuvenate, or simply escape the busy pace of everyday life, Corynnia Station offers the perfect setting.

The Ultimate Stargazing and Astrophotography at Corynnia Station: January is Special Destination

Corynnia Station is more than just a place to stay—it’s a stargazing paradise. With clear, expansive skies and no light pollution, our station is one of the best places in Australia to gaze at the stars and capture breathtaking photos of the night sky. If you’re passionate about astrophotography, our outback location is an ideal spot for you. Here, you’ll find a perfect canvas for capturing the cosmos in all its glory.

The vast, 360-degree views offer stunning opportunities for stargazers and photographers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or simply a lover of the night sky, the celestial displays above Corynnia Station will leave you in awe.

Stargazing and Astrophotography: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

Astrophotography enthusiasts flock to Corynnia Station year-round, but January is an especially exciting time. In 2025, January offers a spectacular opportunity to photograph the night sky, with a rare alignment of four planets visible to the naked eye.

Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars will all align throughout the month, making for a stunning celestial event. According to NASA, this four-planet conjunction will be visible in the evening sky during the first few hours after dark. Venus and Saturn will be in the southwest, Jupiter will shine brightly overhead, and Mars will rise in the east. It’s a rare sight that’s sure to thrill both amateur and professional astronomers.

Don’t Miss the Four-Planet Alignment

The planetary alignment will occur every night throughout January 2025. While a telescope isn’t necessary to view the four planets, it will enhance the experience. For those with telescopes, you can also spot Uranus and Neptune—though they will appear dimmer than the other planets.

These alignments, while not extremely rare, offer a chance to observe our solar system in a way that doesn’t happen every year. As NASA explains, the planets will appear to line up along the ecliptic, the plane of our solar system, giving stargazers a stunning view of the night sky.

A Special Event: Super Close Approach and Mars Opposition

In mid-January, both Venus and Saturn will gradually get closer to one another, culminating in a “super close approach.” This will make them appear even more spectacular in the sky. At the same time, Mars will reach opposition, appearing larger and brighter than usual. These astronomical events will align, creating a mesmerizing sight as the planets form a straight line across the night sky.

Remember, despite how close they seem, these planets are still hundreds of millions of miles apart, and observing them is like staring deep into the vastness of space. It’s an awe-inspiring experience, especially when viewed from the unspoiled skies of Corynnia Station.

Capture the Cosmos: Astrophotography at Its Best

For astrophotographers, Corynnia Station offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Stargazing and Astrophotography and to capture the stars and planets in stunning detail. With no light pollution and expansive, unobstructed views, the station provides the perfect backdrop for your celestial photography. Whether you’re photographing the alignment of four planets or simply capturing the beauty of the Milky Way, Corynnia Station’s clear skies create an exceptional environment for your astrophotography endeavors.

Plan Your Stargazing and AstrophotographyTrip Today

Corynnia Station offers far more than just a luxury outback getaway. It’s a destination where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big smoke, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, and witness the spectacular wonders of the night sky. Whether you’re visiting for stargazing, astrophotography, or simply to enjoy the serenity of the outback, our station offers an experience unlike any other.

Take advantage of the rare planetary alignments and clear skies this January. Plan your visit to Corynnia Station for an unforgettable stargazing and astrophotography adventure. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the cosmos like never before.

Exclusive Promotion for Three Night Stay

Experience Authentic Outback Luxury at Corynnia Station

Escape to Corynnia Station with this Exclusive Promotion! Here, authentic outback luxury meets the serenity of nature. Located on the edge of outback NSW, our beautiful property offers the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and modern comforts.

Relax in Our Tranquil Gardens & Premium Facilities

At Corynnia Station, we’ve created a peaceful retreat that invites you to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Stroll through our expansive gardens or take a refreshing swim in our heated pool. Furthermore, for a bit of friendly competition, enjoy a game of tennis on our well-maintained court. Moreover, you’ll find our animals adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the property, making your stay feel like home.

Discover the Beauty of Native Flora and Fauna

Take a leisurely walk through the stunning Australian bush and discover the native flora as well as fauna that surround our property. Whether you prefer a peaceful bushwalk or a relaxing bike ride, the natural beauty of Corynnia Station offers the perfect backdrop for reflection and tranquility.

Enjoy Spectacular 360-Degree Vistas

Indeed, one of the highlights of Corynnia Station is our awe-inspiring 360-degree views. From every angle, the vastness of the outback stretches to the horizon, offering panoramic vistas that captivate the imagination as well as the senses. Furthermore, the open night skies and sweeping landscapes create a sense of peaceful solitude, making it the ideal setting for relaxation and unwinding.

Exclusive Promotion: Stay 3 Nights and Save 18%!

To make your stay even more special, we’re offering an exclusive promotion of 18% discount on a three-night stay at Corynnia Station. There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Outback while saving on your accommodation.

Book Your 3-Night Retreat Today! Exclusive Promotion!

Don’t miss out on this impressive offer! Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or simply want to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Australian outback, Corynnia Station is the perfect destination. Book your three-night stay today and take advantage of our 18% discount. Experience Outback luxury, spectacular views, and absolute tranquility — all at a special price.

An Irish Success Story – Ollie Geraghty

Ollie Geraghty’s story begins on a scenic farm in the heart of rural western Ireland. The youngest of eight children in a hardworking family, Ollie grew up surrounded by the rhythms of farm life, with horses and sheep as part of his everyday world. Despite the love and care his parents gave, there were few luxuries—family holidays were a distant dream. Yet, Ollie’s childhood was filled with the richness of imagination, especially when it came to aviation.

As a boy, Ollie and his best mate Dave shared a passion for building model airplanes. With a sense of wonder and devotion, they would spend hours assembling these kits, their little hands working tirelessly, and their minds dreaming of the skies. For Ollie, the only real contact with planes came during rare trips to town with his father, when he would ask to stop by the airport to watch the planes take off and land. This fleeting moment was a precious treat, fueling his dreams and leaving a deep longing to one day soar through the skies himself.

In his teenage years, Ollie took a different path, signing up to be a carpenter’s apprentice. His dedication and hard work over the next five years paid off, and Ollie became a highly skilled carpenter, ready to begin his career. Seeking new opportunities, he made the bold decision to emigrate to Australia in his mid-twenties. He quickly found work in his trade and gained a reputation as an exceptional craftsman. However, the challenges weren’t far behind. The company he worked for was led by a boss who took advantage of his hard work and expertise, underpaying him for his skill. Rather than let this injustice define him, Ollie made the courageous decision to venture out on his own.

As an independent contractor, Ollie’s business flourished. He soon employed 23 carpenters and secured lucrative contracts from builders around Sydney. His business acumen was evident, and success seemed to follow him at every turn. Yet, even with such a thriving enterprise, Ollie never forgot the dream that had lingered in his heart since childhood: aviation. He enrolled in a flying school and, ever the savvy businessman, decided to purchase his own plane, making the lessons more affordable and personal. That’s when Ollie’s passion for flying truly took flight.

But Ollie’s journey didn’t stop there. His heart yearned for a very specific kind of aircraft: the Vans RV-7, a custom-built plane renowned for its aerobatic capabilities. These planes were rare, and Ollie’s search for one was relentless. Then, during the global turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic, tragedy struck. Ollie’s mother was diagnosed with cancer, and he moved mountains to be allowed to travel and return home to Ireland and be by her side. After a brave but short battle, his mother passed away, leaving Ollie with an aching heart as he returned to Australia to continue his life and business without her.

Once back down under, Ollie’s perseverance paid off, and he finally found the Vans RV-7 of his dreams. With it, he earned his RPL license and aerobatic endorsement, fulfilling a childhood dream he had never let go of. No longer was Ollie simply watching planes from the sidelines—he was in the cockpit, performing thrilling aerobatics, living the life he had once only dreamed of as a boy.

Amidst his busy business life and aviation pursuits, Ollie met Marita, the woman who would become his partner in both life and love. Marita, a rare gem with beauty inside and out, captured Ollie’s heart. They met at the iconic Scruffy Murphys pub, and from there, their love story unfolded. Together, they make a stunning couple—working hard and playing hard, balancing their shared passion for life, adventure, and each other.

It was our privilege at Corynnia Station, a luxury outback retreat, to host Ollie and Marita. They flew in on Ollie’s striking Vans RV-7 with its red wings and black-and-white checkerboard pattern, a plane that represents not just his passion for aviation, but his determination and commitment. The couple spent a serene afternoon at the station, enjoying the pool and the lush garden oasis before gathering for drinks on the Homestead terrace. Laughter echoed into the evening, thanks to Marita’s sharp wit and infectious humor. Marita, a talented photographer, also took advantage of the breathtaking surroundings to capture the night sky through astrophotography, witnessing an awe-inspiring sunrise that painted the endless plains in magical light.

Ollie’s plane is not only a personal treasure, but it is also part of the Freedom Formation—a renowned aerobatic display team that has wowed audiences with their stunning performances at the Pacific Airshow on the Gold Coast. As part of the largest formation aerobatic display team in the Southern Hemisphere, Ollie and his fellow aviators showcase their incredible skills, thrilling crowds with their daring routines. The team consists of 16 passionate pilots from all walks of life, including retirees, former airline captains, tech professionals, and small business owners, united by a shared love of aviation and a desire to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Ollie’s journey, from a boy watching planes at an Irish airport to becoming a successful business owner and aerobatic pilot in Australia, is nothing short of extraordinary. He is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and following one’s dreams—no matter where life leads. Together with Marita, he is building a life filled with love, adventure, and success. The sky is truly the limit for this remarkable entrepreneur, aviator, and dreamer.

The Unique Charm of Corynnia Station in “Days After Bourke – a Bushwoman’s True Story” Part Three

The central character in Joy Robertson’s Days After Bourke.

Corynnia Station, a working sheep station in the Australian outback, stands as a central character in Joy Robertson’s Days After Bourke – a Bushwoman’s True Story. When the protagonists arrive, they find the farm in a state of disrepair—run down and struggling to cope with the harsh elements of the outback.

In dedicating a significant portion of her book to Corynnia Station, Robertson highlights its unique charm and the profound impact of the outback on those who inhabit it. Corynnia Station is a compelling reminder of the challenges and beauty of rural life, making it an unforgettable element of Days After Bourke.

Here are excerpts from the book:

After a makeshift tea we started to clean the kitchen up. No matter what men say the kitchen is the hub of any house and it had to be put to rights straight away. If the men aren’t fed properly, they cannot be expected to work.

We made our beds in a couple of the rooms and fell into bed exhausted. What a big day we’ve had! I cried during that first night partly from sheer weariness but also from thinking about what we had left behind. Next morning I walked around the verandah of the house and all I could see was sand and couldn’t see beyond it.

Ohh! What a mess! No wonder Mr. Crawford had doubled Jim’s salary.

Jim went to Carrathool early next morning to take the caretaker into town and while he was gone the boys and I wandered around outside. The landscape reminded me of pictures I’d seen of the war when our men were fighting in Egypt or other desert areas. Sand and more sand.

Jim was to take Bluey back to school a few days later and said that while he was in Hay he would make arrangements with a contractor to get rid of the sand in the yard and also get someone to look for water. The water situation was critical as the old bore at the homestead was caving in and needed replacing. The only water we had at the house was 3 rainwater tanks and they were full of frogs!

The house yard by the look of it had at one time had a 7- or 8-foot-high saltbush hedge down its western and southern sides. Jim was able to get a man with teams of horses that did delving who said that they could shift the sand. It took over two weeks for the two teams to pull all that sand out. The teamsters saved as much of the saltbush hedge as they could and later, we were able to replant the gaps. Jim wanted the sand spread over the area outside the homestead yard instead of just being piled up outside. In time it just sort of disappeared the biggest quarterly wins I’ve ever seen were at Corynnia.

They would be over 100 yards across and hundreds of feet high. We were told to keep away from them. They became less as the seasons improved and things weren’t quite so dry period the Crawfords had also bought a neighbouring place called Glenorie and made it part of Corynnia. That extended the total grazing area but it was still not as big as Toogimbie.

The boring contractors had to drill to 300 feet through very fine sand before striking water and had to put on sand filters to stop the pump from picking up sand while it was pumping. A new mill was erected and a big ground tank and a high overhead tank were built. What a big job! The high one was for the house and garden and the other one was for stock. The water was plentiful and I was keen to start shaping the garden.

One of the first things we had to do after settling in was to sort out the multitude of wild cats that were living around the house area. There must have been over a hundred in all. They were everywhere, all colors sizes and sexes. There wasn’t any wildlife left around this area with such a mob of cats running loose. Jim was able to clean them out with a lot of shooting. We were not going to keep even one! Jim asked Dalgetys in Hay if they knew of any suitable workers and two weeks later he received a telegram saying a family of three workers would be arriving from Melbourne. There was Frank the father Pat his daughter and a sturdy son called Kevin. Pat was to help me in the house and with the cooking. Kevin was the groom and Frank the handyman. They lived in a cottage just off the quarters. Jim was able to buy 2 Nissen sheds from army disposals and planned to use one for storing machinery and vehicles. There were two old wooden sheds out the back and one was pulled down to make room for the first Nissens. Much later the other one was put up for hay and grain storage when farming was commenced on the northern part of the property.

After Christmas Bluey wasn’t ready to go on to high school and he hadn’t done very well in Hay. I put him on correspondence with Alan and he repeated 6th class period. Having Pat to help with the cooking meant I was able to spend more time with the boys on their lessons and we saw some marked improvement. I was also able to devote more time to the house and garden. The correspondence lessons sent fortnightly from Sydney were very interesting. They arrived via the mailman and when finished were sent back to the school. The only trouble I’ve found was actually keeping the boys in the classroom as there seemed to be so much going on around the place. If it wasn’t a broken-winged bird it was a lamb or our pet crow. This crow delighted in walking around the flower garden chopping off flower heads and dropping them to the ground. We also had a greyhound that someone dumped on the place and this was another distraction. Her owners had cut the tips of her ears; But why? Jim said that she must have become too hot to run anymore in Griffith as at that time it was a practice to dope dogs for racing and then bleed them afterwards by nicking the tips of the ears. In time the ears became quite marked. Little did her owners know when they left her in the bush that she would be found by my Bluey! They picked the one boy that would do anything for her. He thought the world of her.

She became known as Lady, Lassie or Sally. She would answer to any of those names. When she first turned up she had a big yellow pup with her but the men did away with it. Jim was quite happy to keep Sally because he had never had a pet dog and he thought it would be good for the boys to have a dog with them about the place.

Some days they would go out chasing kangaroos with Sally. She wouldn’t go for the last one as they took off across the paddock, but always went for the big one in the lead. By the time the boys could catch up with her on foot, she would have killed it. They would drag the kangaroo home the best way they could and the boys always wished she would pick one of the smaller ones towards the rear instead of the leader. Usually one of the men would cut it up to feed all the dogs.

One time Sally and I locked horns.

The boys were supposed to be having a rest on a couple of beds out near their school room but there seemed to be a lot of noise coming from that direction. It only settled down when I sang out but it wasn’t long before it started up again. I crept out to see what was going on, and there was Sally on the bed and under the covers with Bluey. I saw red and went out wielding a straw broom. Did she jump! She took off from under the covers when I hit the bed and flew straight out through the gauze on the veranda taking out a whole section.

Bluey jumped when I hit him with a broom and Allen dived under his bed and stayed there. It wasn’t the poor dog’s fault really and it took ages for me to get near her again. At times while the boys were out hunting, they’d come across rocks in little heaps and wonder what they were there for. The heaps usually showed up on some of the big clay pans that were made from the results of the big droughts and dust storms some years before. Jim explained that the small heaps of rocks, usually two or three together, where aboriginal burial sites, and the boys were not to touch them.

Wine Production in the Riverina Is Facing Uncertainty

The Riverina, Australia’s second-largest wine-growing region, has long been a powerhouse in the global wine industry, exporting more than 12 million cases of wine each year. However, its prominence in the sector is now at risk, with troubling signs of decline according to industry experts. In recent years, both economic factors and extreme weather events have severely impacted the region, leading to a dramatic shift in its wine production capabilities.

Declining Vineyards and Grower Numbers in the Riverina

As of three years ago, the Riverina boasted 22,000 hectares of vineyards and 275 independent grape growers. However, these figures have now dropped to under 19,000 hectares and just 225 growers. Reflecting a significant reduction in the region’s production capacity. According to Riverina Winegrape Growers CEO Jeremy Cass, these losses are not only a result of economic pressures but also the devastating impact of unpredictable weather patterns.

Severe Weather Events Wreak Havoc on Vineyards

The Riverina has experienced a series of major climatic events in recent years. Hailstorms and floods to extreme rainfall, all of which have contributed to increased disease pressure and crop losses.

“This year, we faced the worst and most widespread frost event I have seen in the region in over 30 years,” Cass said. Adding to the devastation, a violent storm recently tore through the Yenda area. It caused severe damage to infrastructure and crops alike, further threatening the region’s wine industry.

Global Demand Decline and Ongoing Tariff Issues

Beyond the challenges posed by nature, the Riverina’s wine industry has been hit by a combination of reduced global demand, rising costs, and the lasting repercussions of past Chinese tariffs. The tariffs, imposed by China in response to political tensions, led to the loss of Australia’s largest wine export market virtually overnight. This drastic change continues to reverberate across the sector.

Jeremy Cass recently expressed his concerns on social media, questioning whether the Riverina’s wine production could soon come to an end. “Are we looking at the end of wine production in the Riverina MIA?” he wrote. “The tariffs imposed by China have led to the single biggest downturn the Australian wine industry has seen in living memory.”

A Nationwide Crisis: Challenges for the Australian Wine Sector

The Australian wine industry’s struggles are not limited to the Riverina. Earlier this year, the University of Adelaide’s Wine Economics Research Centre highlighted the nationwide malaise affecting the sector. Their research pointed to a looming crisis that has been threatening the industry for nearly two decades. Although the sector briefly saw relief through rapid export growth in the early 2000s, the rise of China as a significant wine market, and the success of Yenda’s Yellow Tail brand, these gains were undone by a combination of factors.

In particular, China’s punitive tariffs on Australian wine, a steep decline in wine consumption within China since 2017, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and war-related logistical challenges have all contributed to a huge surplus of bulk red wine. These factors have collectively depressed export prices and put further financial strain on Australian winegrowers.

The Future of the Riverina Wine Industry

With the global wine industry in turmoil, and the Riverina region facing numerous obstacles, the future of wine production here remains uncertain. The combination of environmental, economic, and political pressures is threatening to dismantle the region’s once-thriving wine industry. If these challenges continue, the Riverina may soon find itself unable to sustain its wine production at the scale it once did.

For the Riverina’s grape growers and wine producers, the need for solutions is more urgent than ever. With reduced global demand, fluctuating export prices, devastating weather events, and the lasting impacts of Chinese tariffs, the region’s wine industry is grappling with its most difficult period in decades. As the industry continues to fight for its survival, the question remains: how much longer can the Riverina’s wine production endure?

The Riverina wine industry is facing an uncertain future; as it grapples with severe weather conditions, economic pressures, and the lasting impact of international trade disruptions.

With the loss of key export markets, particularly China, and the increase in unpredictable climatic events, wine production in the Riverina may soon become a thing of the past. As growers and producers continue to face these mounting challenges, the future of this once-thriving industry remains in the balance.

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.

An Overview of Our Sheep Farming Operation

At Corynnia Station, our sheep farming operation is a year-round process that requires attention to detail, as well as precision, and careful planning. With 4,200 breeding ewes and 2,000 followers ( maiden ewes), the station is a hub of activity throughout the year. The key to our success lies in our carefully managed sheep husbandry practices, which include shearing, lambing, weaning, joining, and sales. Each step is vital to ensuring the health of our flock and the profitability of our operation.

Joining and Lambing: Starting the Cycle

Every year, we begin our breeding cycle by joining our ewes on November 1st. This process is a very important step in sheep farming. It lasts for six weeks, during which we introduce the rams to the flock. After the six-week period, we removed the rams. The ewes undergo a process known as pre-testing. Pre-testing involves scanning each ewe to identify which ones are pregnant and, more importantly, which ones are carrying twins or singles.

Once we identify the pregnant ewes, we divide them into categories based on whether they carry twins or singles. This division allows us to provide extra care and attention to the ewes carrying twins; as they are feeding two lambs instead of one. We aim to have our lambing season take place between the end of May and early June. This ensures the lambs are born during optimal conditions.

Farm tour our enormous flock of Merino sheep, sheep farming — Our Merino sheep

Lamb Marking: Early Care and Vaccinations

Once the lambs are born, we focus on lamb marking, which typically occurs at the end of June. Lamb marking involves several critical procedures to ensure the health and identification of each lamb. We dock the tails of the lambs, castrate the males, and assign an identification tag to each one.

During this time, the lambs also receive important vaccinations to protect them from diseases like black leg, scabby mouth, malignant edema, and pulpy kidney. The latter is a disease that can occur when there is an excess of nutrition due to favorable seasons. It can cause the kidneys to fail. The vaccinations help prevent such health issues and ensure that the lambs grow strong and healthy.

Weaning and Nutrition: Ensuring Growth and Health

In August, we conduct our general shearing, we shear all the sheep on the property. Furthermore, as another important step in sheep farming, we also wean the lambs off their mothers and administer a booster shot of vaccinations. The weaning process is crucial for both the lambs and the ewes, as it helps promote independence and ensures the lambs’ continued growth.

After weaning, we place the lambs into a special paddock with high-quality feed. This also helps them recover from the stress of weaning and promotes healthy growth, particularly in the bones. Just like human children, young animals require proper nutrition at an early age to support strong growth and development. The better the nutrition, the more profitable the operation becomes in the long run.

Shearing Shed Upgrade: Improving Efficiency and Well-Being

In addition to lambing and weaning, shearing is one of the most important tasks at Corynnia Station. We have recently invested in a state-of-the-art, six-stand shearing shed. This new, costly facility replaced our old shed. Together with the previous owners, we used it for over 90 years. The new shed was built with the health and safety of the shearers in mind, as well as to improve efficiency.

The design of the new shed minimizes strain on the shearers’ backs, knees, and hips. The sheep are brought into the shed with minimal drag, and the raised board ensures that staff can pick up wool without having to bend over. This design reduces fatigue and improves production by about 40%. The new shed is an investment that will last for another 100 years, ensuring that shearing operations are both more efficient and more comfortable for everyone involved.

shearing shed, sheep farming — Our wool shed

Lice Prevention and Wool Quality: Protecting the Flock

After shearing, we backline the sheep with insecticide to prevent lice infestations. Lice can cause sheep to itch, which leads to rubbing and results in “cottoning” of the wool. Cottoned wool becomes matted and difficult to shear, significantly lowering its value. By backlining our sheep, we prevent lice and ensure the wool remains in top condition, ready to be processed.

Sales: Auctions Plus and Market Opportunities

At the end of the shearing season, we turn our attention to the sale of older sheep. We remove from the flock ewes that are six years or older and sell them to other producers. We use the Auctions Plus platform for these sales, which allows us to list our sheep online for national buyers to bid on. Auctions Plus is a modern alternative to traditional auction yards, eliminating the need for transportation and reducing stress on the animals.

Our agent drafts the sheep, weighs them, and takes photos and videos for the online listing. The sale occurs every Thursday, and buyers can place bids until the auction closes. If the sheep reach the reserve price, they are sold. This system allows us to set the price, not just take whatever is offered, and it provides a more humane way of selling sheep without the added stress of traditional sale yards.

Classing and Flock Management: Ensuring Quality and Growth

Moreover, after the sales, we focus on classing the maiden ewes (the young sheep that have not yet lambed). A professional classer is brought in to assess each animal based on its constitution, wool quality, and overall health. We aim to produce high-quality sheep that can thrive in our operation, and the classing process ensures that only the best animals remain in the flock.

The classer evaluates each ewe for size, growth potential, and wool characteristics. We cull from the flock those that don’t meet our standards and sell them for meat production. We place the remaining ewes into a better-quality paddock to improve their nutrition and fatten them up for market. This process ensures that our flock remains healthy, high-performing, and ready for the next cycle of lambing and joining.

The Cycle Continues: Preparing for the Next Season of Sheep Farming

As soon as the lambing season is complete, the process begins again in sheep farmig. In early November, we put the rams back with the ewes, and the cycle of breeding, lambing, and shearing starts once more. The ongoing management of our sheep operation is a year-round effort that combines tradition, innovation, and a deep understanding of animal welfare. By continuously improving our practices, we ensure that Corynnia Station remains a successful and sustainable operation for years to come.

Conclusion – Succesful Sheep Farming

At Corynnia Station, we carefully manage every step of the sheep farming operation, from breeding and lambing to shearing and sales. Through investment in technology, careful flock management, and a commitment to animal welfare, we ensure the health and profitability of our sheep enterprise. By adopting innovative practices like Auctions Plus for sales and investing in a new shearing shed, we continue to push the boundaries of modern farming. Our goal is not only to produce high-quality wool and meat but also to create a sustainable and humane operation that will thrive for generations.