Letter from the farm – October 2025

Busy few months? Me too!

You wouldn’t believe how many times I have thought about writing to you over the last couple of months. I wanted to share with you what I see as the season changes and how that unfolds over the farm. I missed sharing with you how the vivid yellow canola paddocks of late August slowly faded into pastel yellow and green as their petals fell.

How the early spring rain and warmer weather transformed the short green pick of grass into lush paddocks. The intense sense of relief that washed over us as we realised we had options again, more than enough grass to feed everyone. I want you to know what is happening on the farm so you don’t feel so far away!

I once read about the challenge of work-life balance and the expectation that we can have it all, always. I learnt that maybe the balance is not perfect and there are times that the wind in our sails sends us in a direction so strongly that we can’t fight it. I also learnt that the wind changes, we get the opportunity to adjust our course and the new momentum balances out the old.

My challenge is that sometimes I don’t want to accept the power of the wind and fight to hold my course forgetting that the change is coming. Maybe I didn’t need to try so hard to never get my last few letters sent? I don’t have a lot of experience sailing but I do have plenty with loads of washing and have intimate experience fighting the hills hoist on a windy day! How often do you battle the wind and fight back when maybe you don’t need to? Please tell me I’m not alone!

Over the last couple of months while I was too busy to write to you, life on the farm has demanded as much attention as we can offer (just like kids!). Fly strike is a significant risk at this time of year and we have crutched our entire flock as a preventative measure. Our second drop lambs born in July/August have now been weaned from their mothers and our attention has moved to our main joining in November.

We have focused on the health and condition of our ewes, trying to give them the best opportunity to successfully fall pregnant. Thank goodness for the season and good quality feed in abundance. We are trailing some changes this year with our joining and I will keep you updated in November as the rams earn their keep on the farm!

September school holidays were busy at Avalon Farmstay and as usual we loved sharing the farm with our guests. A special thank you to David who left us a wonderful google review that put into words the experience we hope all our guests enjoy.

‘Our time at Avalon Farm Stay was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and genuine hospitality. The property is stunning, and I highly recommend taking in the breathtaking views from Avalon Hill - it’s a peaceful spot that truly captures the beauty of the countryside. A special thank you to Joel for going above and beyond to make our experience unforgettable. Joel’s guided tour of the farm was both informative and fun, and we especially appreciated how he got our son involved in the sheep work - it was a highlight of our trip and something Duncan will never forget Avalon Farm stay is the perfect blend of relaxation and authentic rural charm’. September 2025

Spring on the farm and in the NSW Riverina is a beautiful time of year. Warm days, cool nights and endless opportunities to keep busy with local shows, festivals and events. In just September and October alone we had the Lockhart Picnic Races, Lockhart Show, The Spirit of the Land, The Rock Show, Gears & Bears Wagga Wagga and more – all within 30min drive of Avalon Farmstay! If you are not able to come and experience it now hopefully we will be able to share some of these events with you next year?

As I watch the vivid green grass slowly yellow and develop seed heads I know time is moving fast and the summer is on it’s way. Making hay is on the top of the priority list and I’ll keep you updated on our progress.

Until then, enjoy the last of the October winds and the direction they are sailing you. I’m glad to say that the change has come and my winds have sent me back here with you!

Until my next letter, sending my love from the farm,

Em.