About Us
Haddon Rig, a mixed-farming operation located 20km NW of Warren, NSW, was founded in 1882 as a Merino stud. Managed by George Falkiner, his daughter Olivia, and their team, the Falkiner family celebrated 100 years of ownership in 2016. As one of Australia’s top Merino studs, we uphold values of quality and integrity.
Producing 7,000 stud ewes and 2,000 commercial ewes annually, we sell around 1,500 Merino and Poll rams each year, with the best offered at our September auction. Haddon Rig has been a leader in objective measurement and scientific breeding since its inception.
OVER 100 YEARS IN THE MERINO INDUSTRY
On top of Merino breeding, we farm approximately 9,000 ha of mixed dryland crops as well as up to 800 ha of cotton. We also run up to 1500 commercial cattle and trade opportunistically.
Haddon Rig’s mission is to breed productive, fertile and high-yielding merino sheep that perform consistently for our clients. A lot of lambs. A lot of wool. A lot of meat. We achieve this through selective breeding from Haddon Rig genetics, utilising industry best practices in nutrition, husbandry and classing and combining the use of ASBVs, an extensive Artificial Insemination (AI) program and DNA testing.
OUR PURPOSE
through scientific breeding techniques, objective measurement and sustainable practices, is to breed genetics that meet the future economic, social and environmental demands of the wool and meat industry.
Our Genetics
We have the long-term future of the merino industry in our sights. Our genetic measurement and subsequent combinations enable us to identify and choose animals with desirable traits including superior fertility, meat production, wool quality and a resilience to extreme Australian weather conditions. The Falkiner family and team’s commitment to genetic progress over the last 100 years has led to greater consistency and accuracy in the progeny they sell.
Our Future
At Haddon Rig, we are committed to the future of the merino industry by applying best practices in everything we do. We focus on environmental sustainability, genetic progress, animal husbandry, land management, and human resources. The Falkiner family’s passion and dedication to the agricultural industry and the broader community are at the heart of our efforts.
Our Expertise
Our expert team brings extensive knowledge in customer service and breeding programs, working closely with producers to optimise productivity and profitability. We offer expert guidance in breeding and management to support our clients’ success.
Haddon Rig has trained many of the country’s top agricultural and business leaders, nurturing young talent in merino breeding, business management, animal husbandry, pasture management, and stud genetics. We take pride in educating and empowering the next generation.