Our Farm

Land of grass and dust

Our property, Redbank, was established in the 1940's by Ron and Sylvia Harris, grandparents of the current owner, Dale Harris. 

The farm location, around 1 hour north of Perth and 30 minutes inland from the coast, the Mediteranean climate, and combined with heavy clay soils, make this area extremely productive and reliable between June and September every year. In good seasons, rains in late April or early May can start the growing season and result in excellent grazing conditions heading into winter. The average break of the season is mid-May, with reliable rains through to September. A late start can be early June, which means a short growing season.

Spring rains in September and October are essential for us to finish lambs to slaughter weights. If grass production is limited by dry conditions in Spring then lambs are sold as stores. Retained ewe lambs and ram lambs have to be supplementary fed, usually with lupins and silage, to get them heavy enough for joining as lambs the following February.

We endure a very dry period, usually lasting from November to April, every year. In this 6 month period every year we can usually expect around 20 to 50mm of rainfall in total. 

Redbank Grazing Co.

Our farming operation is focused on improving the soils and the natural environment we manage, as well as the quality of the sheep we breed. We also want to create an environment that is safe, welcoming and encouraging for our staff, family and visitors.

Our Property

Our 580 ha property is located in Beermullah, with mainly heavy clay flats, some sand over clay soils and a small section of deeper sand. Originally developed in the 1940's by Dale's grandparents, Ron and Sylvia Harris, the property was them managed by Dale's father Rob. The property is now shared with Dale and his brother Clint, who runs angus cattle and sheep, as well as some cropping on lighter soils. Dale is focused soley on sheep production on the 280 ha of the family property he manages. Developments have included fencing and water reticulation to reduce paddock sizes and support rotational grazing practices, additional yards and laneways to improve labour efficiency and remote monitoring of critical water infrastructure. 

Our Pastures

Being north of Perth, the warmer temperatures and reliable 500mm growing season rainfall allows us to grow large quanities of pasture for grazing. Annual ryegrass and clover are the mainstay of our pasture production. The very hot, dry summer and autumn and our cracking clay soils make it difficult for perennials like phalaris, fescue or cocksfoot to persist. On sandier soils kikuyu roots tap into the moisture at depth and provide some additional grazing each side of the main growing season. Pasture growth rates of over 100 kg DM/ha/day in September allow us to cut excess pasture for silage, which we feed to the ewes over the late summer and autumn period. 

Our Environment

Improving the environment is a key area of focus at Redbank FX Rams. Tree planting, fencing and increasing groundcover are all high on the priority list. Areas of grazing shrubs like weeping tagasaste provides habitat for native birds and other animals, as well as providing feed in the drier months of the year. Block tree planting is underway to increase shade and shelter, and native shrubs and rushes have been left to regenerate and provide refuge for native animals and lambing ewes. A winter creek through the property is a beautiful place to hear the birds and trickle of water. A calm peaceful place perfoect for a bonfire, billy tea and a bbq (and maybe a beer or two).

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