Luxury farm stay in outback NSW

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

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

The unique charm of 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:

CORYNNIA STATION

We drove upstream along the river from Hay for about 40 miles and then crossed the Murrumbidgee. It was then just about lunchtime, so we stopped for a picnic lunch on the riverbank beside a very striking-looking bridge. I had packed a cooked leg of lamb and roasted veggies, the leftovers from last night’s dinner and when we had stopped in Hay I had bought tomatoes and fresh bread. Jim set a fire and the boys helped him boil the Billy. We all liked our cup of tea with a picnic. The dogs were left off for a short run but were tied up after a while so that they wouldn’t go wandering off. After our welcome lunch break, we packed everything up again and set off to drive the mile or so to Carrathool which would be our nearest Township. What a tiny village! It had a police station, general store, railway station, small hall and a few houses. We pulled up in front of the store and Jim hopped out and went inside. He was in there quite some time and when he came out he said I have just opened a grocery account for the station so we can order stuff. It also lets people know who we are. The railway line and station went down one side of Main Street, and everything else was on the other period this was one of the little places we must have passed through on the tram some two years earlier when we traveled from young to hate. What a quaint little place!

There wasn’t a soul in the streets so Jim turned the ute around and drove over the railway crossing and headed north. Another 10 miles over open plains the gateway to Corynnia came into view. The boys jumped down and opened the wire gate, and as we drove through I looked at the fence line and thought to myself “There is no fence there just the tops of the posts poking out of the sand”. A couple of miles later we passed the woolshed on the left then shortly afterwards on driving up a sandy rise the Homestead came into view. What desolation! We drove up to the front gate of the house and Jim alighted from the ute with great enthusiasm saying Here we are! The boys and I got out and I just stood there and wept while the boys tried to console me. But I knew my husband! He had a drive in him that made him want to take on any challenge, and who was I to stop him?

Blowing sand had covered nearly everything and we were able to step right over the top bar on the front gate and surrounding saltbush hedge. There was over 8 feet of sand in the front garden and a very plain building with gauzed verandahs, in the middle of it all. I don’t think I had ever seen anything as desolate as this Homestead. I felt like turning around and leaving straight away from the shock of seeing the state the place was in. What a disappointment after our lovely Toogimbie. No wonder Jim had kept quiet about the place! I turned to him and asked What are we supposed to do with this? Goodness only knows! I then took a deep breath walked down the sloping sand to the front door and went inside.

What a mess! It was evident that there had not been anyone living in the main homestead for quite some time. An old man was camping in the quarters beside the kitchen and had been keeping an eye on things until someone turned up. Dalgetys had been paying him to caretake the place and as soon as we showed up he wanted Jim to take him straight into town! He couldn’t get away soon enough! Tomorrow – he was told – as Jim had to go back to Carrathool anyway to pick up materials.

The homestead was big and sprawling and must have been very comfortable in its heyday. The kitchen was just behind the main house and was joined to it by a covered walkway. A big wood stove the biggest I had ever seen was down one wall in the kitchen; The sink and cupboards were under the window and there were ample storage cupboards and a big pantry. It had three doorways leading from it and a big wooden table stood in the middle of the floor. There were a number of cats about and talk about a mess! What had we got ourselves into this time?

I don’t know where to start.

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.

Exclusive Discount Offer

Experience Authentic Outback Luxury at Corynnia Station

Discover the ultimate blend of authentic outback luxury and nature with this Exclusive Discount Offer at Corynnia Station, where relaxation and tranquility await. Nestled on the edge of outback NSW, our stunning property offers guests a unique opportunity to unwind in a tranquil setting while enjoying all the comforts of modern amenities.

Unwind in the Beautiful Gardens & Enjoy Fantastic Facilities

Furthermore, our expansive Homestead garden provides the perfect retreat for guests seeking peace and relaxation. Dive into our heated pool for a refreshing swim or challenge a friend to a game of tennis on our well-maintained court. With friendly animals roaming the grounds, there’s no shortage of charm and warmth here at Corynnia Station.

Explore Australia’s Unique Flora and Fauna

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, with unique Australian native plants and wildlife surrounding our property. Take a peaceful bushwalk or ride a bike at your leisure while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the outback. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, Corynnia Station offers the perfect environment to reconnect with nature.

Breathtaking 360-Degree Vistas

Prepare to be amazed by the panoramic 360-degree vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The vast, unspoiled outback skies are truly awe-inspiring, offering a serene and peaceful backdrop to your stay.

Exclusive Discount Offer: Save on Your Stay!

To make your stay even more memorable, we’re excited to offer a special 10% discount on your second night at Corynnia Station. Simply book any of our luxurious accommodations, and when you reserve a second night, you’ll receive 10% off the regular price. It’s the perfect opportunity to extend your escape and enjoy even more of what our beautiful property has to offer.

Book Your Outback Getaway Today! and receive an Exclusive Discount Offer

Don’t miss out on this great offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an adventure filled escape, Corynnia Station is the ideal destination. Book your stay today and enjoy authentic outback luxury, nature, and savings all in one place.

Wheat harvest season at Corynnia Station!

At Corynnia Station, nestled within the sweeping expanse of the Hay Plains, the wheat harvest season is a spectacle of nature and technology in harmony. The land stretches out in vast, undulating fields of golden wheat, swaying gently in the outback wind. Standing amidst this sea of golden grain, you can’t help but feel insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe. It is in this vastness that the true scale of human effort behind each wheat crop becomes apparent.

The temperature on this sun-drenched day is a blistering 35°C. The harsh rays of the Australian outback sun beat down relentlessly. But in the cabin of the John Deere X9 1000 combine, you might as well be cruising in a luxury vehicle. This modern marvel, a testament to how far wheat harvesting has come, allows the operator to comfortably oversee a complex, high-tech process from a seat of power.

The Evolution of Wheat Harvest Machines

The story of wheat harvesting is one of constant innovation, beginning with humble roots. The first combine harvester, invented by Hiram Moore in 1835, revolutionized farming by combining the reaping, threshing, and winnowing of cereal grains in one machine. Originally pulled by horse teams, it laid the foundation for future advancements in agricultural machinery.

Several key machines paved the way for today’s harvesting giants:

The Bell Machine (1826): Designed by Reverend Patrick Bell, this horse-drawn reaper used a scissors principle to cut plants.
The Sunshine Harvester (1885): Hugh Victor McKay’s creation, one of the first commercially viable combine harvesters, changed the game for wheat farmers.
The Ridley Stripper (Late 1800s): Invented by John Ridley, this horse-pulled machine was used to strip wheat from plants.
The Header Harvester (1892): Another McKay invention, it was the first to cut, thresh, and collect the grain all in one go, a breakthrough that would shape modern harvesting.

Fast forward to today, and John Deere has taken the reins with their premier X9 1000 combine harvester, valued at over 1 million dollars. This powerhouse is the epitome of modern farming technology; it combines precision and power in one giant yet sleek machine.

A Dance of Machines and Technology

Harvesting wheat today is a well-orchestrated operation, where human skill and machinery work in perfect harmony. Watching the process unfold is nothing short of mesmerizing. The combine harvester, with its spinning blades, cuts through the wheat fields with the precision of a surgeon. The ripe grain flows into the machine like waves in a sea of gold.

Behind the impressive exterior of this cutting-edge machinery is a complex, digital brain that manages every aspect of the operation. The choreography between the header, the tractor pulling the wagon and collecting the grain, and the awaiting truck is seamless. All is coordinated by a sophisticated system that ensures efficiency and precision.

Inside the cabin, the operator is focused and alert. Sitting comfortably in the air con he operates the machine with the flick of a joystick, while constantly monitoring data displayed on multiple digital screens. Though he may look like any gamer anywhere in the world, his job is far from a game. He is overseeing the mechanical activity of this hi-tech giant, ensuring the smooth operation of the harvest, and being ready to intervene if necessary.

The Future of Wheat Harvesting

The wheat fields of Corynnia Station may seem endless, but they are no match for the power of modern technology. As harvesting techniques evolve, the marriage of precision machinery and digital innovation is transforming agriculture in Australia and beyond. The future of farming is here, and it’s more efficient, sustainable, and awe-inspiring than ever before.

By optimizing the harvest process with modern machines, farms like Corynnia Station continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in agriculture.

As modern machines like the John Deere X9 1000 transform the way we harvest, the future of farming looks more efficient and sustainable than ever. These technological advancements are revolutionizing agriculture, bringing precision, speed, and environmental awareness to the forefront. Moreover, from the fields to the table, the journey of wheat is now powered by innovation ensuring that what once seemed impossible is now part of our everyday reality. The future of wheat farming is here, and it’s an exciting time to witness the evolution of this essential industry. What will be next?!?

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

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.

Robertson vividly describes the dilapidated buildings and neglected garden, painting a stark picture of the challenges faced by those living in such isolation. This setting serves as a backdrop for the characters’ journey of revitalization, both of the land and their own lives.

Despite its rundown state, Corynnia Station is rich in potential and beauty. The vast landscapes, rugged terrain, and breathtaking sunsets illustrate the resilience required to thrive in this environment. Through her evocative writing, Robertson invites readers to witness the transformation of not just the farm, but also the deep connection the characters forge with the land.

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:

A MESSAGE TO MOVE ON

At “Toogimbie” we had the mailman calling once a week and naturally, we looked forward to his coming. He came about morning smoko time so Jim was always about to look at the letters straight away. One morning he thumbed through the mail and said There’s a letter here from Mr. Crawford and he wants me to go just a minute: I’m making the tea. I’ll bring smoko out onto the front steps I said, now what were you saying Jim? Mr. Crawford wants me to go and have a look at a property called Corynnia upriver. I think it’s somewhere between Griffith and Carrathool by what this letter is saying and according to this it’s pretty run down. They’re looking at buying it and they want me to go up there and take a look and then right back and tell them what I think.

Jim started to make arrangements to go up there two days later and asked Betty Taylor if she would mind staying with me while he was away. He thought he might be away for about four days so I made up a tucker box for him. I put in cooked corned mutton, a bag of potatoes, heaps of tinned stuff, a freshly baked cake, and some biscuits. He reckoned he was only going for a few days, not a month when I gave him his supplies! But I didn’t want my man to go hungry while he was away.

He was to call at the stock agent in Hay on his way through to find out exactly where the place was and he said that he would call and see Bluey as well.

Jim returned four days later, pleased to have seen Bluey at school but said he wasn’t very impressed with the property. He said that he had sent Mr. Crawford a report on his findings and then left it at that. Some 5 weeks later another letter arrived from Mr. Crawford saying that Berriwina Pastoral company had bought Corynnia and wanted Jim to move up there and do the same job as he had done with Toogimbie and that his wages would be doubled. He instructed Jim to take what he needed and to let him know when he could move. A young couple were to come here in about a week’s time to take over the management of Toogimbie. The mother was a local and her husband was the overseer on a ship station South of Hay and I knew they would fit in well. After their arrival, we stayed on for another 4 days with Jim showing young Bill things about the place. They spent a fair time out on the run as Bill was very keen to see and learn as much as he could before Jim left.

Bill’s wife Anne was a lovely girl and we found we had a lot in common. She loved gardening and cooking. It was nice to know that the garden I had rebuilt would continue to thrive. And couldn’t get over the beauty of the river and the homestead, and said that the property they had come from was way out in the middle of nowhere, had been dry and dusty most of the time and they never had enough water for gardening. Bill commented that Lin and his veggie garden was something else! Over dinner one night they laughed and thought it was a great joke when I told them about our arrival and when I first found out about Lin.

Bill and Ann had a baby girl only a few months old and it was such a novelty having a new baby in the house. This was a new experience for Alan and he wasn’t sure how to handle things when baby Elizabeth cried. I asked Anne how she felt she would cope with settling into a new place with her baby, but she said that her parents lived in hay and would come out for a while to help them.

We decided to have a dinner party for the new arrivals on our last night at Toogimbie and I set about inviting a number of the locals. It also gave us the chance to say goodbye to the very good friends we had made. The dinner was most enjoyable. We had drinks and little bits when our guests arrived then sat down to roast leg of pork with apple sauce, roast veggies, and greens. This was followed by sweets of apple crumble. Egg custard and whipped cream. Coffee was served in the lounge and billiard room later. A very pleasant evening was had by all and a new family was made most welcome.

Next morning we said goodbye to everyone at Toogimbie with my special thanks to Lin for his help. Bill took us and all our belongings into Hay where we were to pick up a new Ford utility to take us to Corynnia. We picked Bluey up on the way through Hay and told the matron that we would have him back to the hotel early the next week. The boys were very excited to think that we were moving to a new place, and I had become more and more curious as the time grew closer. Jim’s preparation for handing Toogimbie over to Bill had taken most of his time and I still had no real information. The utility was collected from the dealer and our things were transferred from the Toogimbie vehicle. There was a lot more room in this new Ute and the men gave it a good once over. There was room enough for the boys to fit inside with us and things weren’t at all cramped.

We had better get going – said Jim – because we have to travel about 50 miles and we better pick up some rations before we leave town. I was glad that Hay was still to be our main town and decided to do only enough shopping for the week. Bill wished us good luck as Jim headed down Main Street and across the bridge with all our worldly goods on board.

Where we were heading off yet again to… I knew not what. Little did I know what lay ahead!”

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.