Animal Health, Welfare & Nutrition

At Chatsworth, we prioritize the health and wellbeing of our livestock. Our stock management program includes regular on-farm testing, routine vaccinations and ongoing vitamin and mineral supplements to meet the nutritional needs of both sheep and cattle.

During lambing and calving seasons, our team in on hand, supervising the process morning and evening, seven days a week. Trained and fully equipped, we are ready to assist and intervene as needed, ensuring the welfare of both mothers and their offspring, maximizing health and survival rates.

No sheep born on Chatsworth are muelsed.

We have a deep respect for both the land we farm and the animals we grow, and we are committed to sustainable environmental practices. We work closely with agronomists and other experts on soil care, crop management and weed control. Tree planting is a key focus for us, as we work to enhance biodiversity and regenerate the natural environment by planting native trees, shrubs and bushes in the area.

We are committed to ethical and sustainable farming practices and handle all livestock gently to help minimize stress. All ewes and lambs bred for meat purposes are un-mueseled.

Supplementary feeding

Winters in the high rainfall southern tablelands can be harsh, making supplementary feed essential for sheep and cattle, especially during pregnancy. At Chatsworth, we have a comprehensive annual program that includes fodder cropping for both sheep and cattle, as well as haymaking to ensure our cattle have enough feed through the winter months.

Our fodder crops are rotated regularly and include brassica and rye, canola, wheat, barley, millet and oats. We’ve found that growing young cattle on a barley crop during winter results in impressive weight gain, surpassing the traditional feed options such as dry pellets and hay.

Our haymaking program revolves around rye, oats and clover blends, with our own hay production supplemented by hay blends sourced from quality hay producers when needed. Animal health and welfare is a top priority and we take great pride in maintaining the highest standards of care and nutrition for all our livestock.