Central West’s Premier Mixed-Farming Operation Hits the Market
The Jones family’s renowned Darriwell Aggregation, spanning 8,828 hectares in New South Wales’ Central West, is poised for a transition as it hits the market. This extensive cropping and livestock operation, situated adjacent to Trundle and strategically positioned between Parkes and Forbes, has been a cornerstone of the Jones family’s farming legacy.
The Darriwell Aggregation represents a significant achievement in mixed farming, having been meticulously managed by brothers Russell, Lloyd, and Geoffrey Jones. Each brother oversees a specific component of the operation: Lloyd focuses on cropping, Russell manages the Merino stud, and Geoffrey runs the crossbred lamb production. Together, their efforts have propelled Darriwell to be a powerhouse in the region’s agricultural sector.
According to Elders agents Chris Malone and Brian McAneney, the aggregation’s scale and productivity are exceptional for the region. “The Jones brothers have achieved efficiencies and production levels well above district averages,” they noted. “These accomplishments have not only underpinned the profitability of their operation but also facilitated significant expansion over the past 66 years.”
The market response to the Darriwell Aggregation has been positive, with interest expected from both farming families seeking expansion opportunities and institutional investors. While no price guide is available, nearby undeveloped land has recently sold for between $1,600 to $1,900 per acre. However, the Darriwell Aggregation offers unparalleled scale and improvements not seen in comparable properties.
Key features of the aggregation include:
- A developed cropping program featuring 1,083 hectares of canola and 2,355 hectares of wheat.
- 2,500 hectares of established lucerne, with an additional 1,000 hectares undersown this year.
- The prestigious Darriwell Merino and Poll Merino studs, housing 7,000 breeding ewes.
- A successful crossbred lamb enterprise with 2,000 head.
- High-quality infrastructure including four shearing sheds, 4,000 tonnes of grain storage, multiple homes, cottages, and well-watered land with numerous dams.
The Darriwell Aggregation is currently in full operational mode, benefiting from favorable seasonal conditions and a comprehensive cropping strategy. Expressions of interest for this outstanding property are due by August 15.
