In November 2015, a humble article about sheep milking, clipped by Dad Jeff, sparked a curious interest among his children—an unusual yet compelling concept in agriculture. This moment marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the family.
The nutritional benefits of sheep milk captivated them—it was not only wholesome but aligned perfectly with their values of health and sustainability. What intrigued them the most was the minimal environmental impact of sheep compared to other livestock, reinforcing their commitment to tread lightly on the earth.
With a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and a profound respect for nature, Jeff and Shirley’s children Ben, Baeley, and Cameron embarked on a mission to convince them that retirement could wait. Thus, began a new chapter at Fernglen Farm, their home for nearly three decades—a sanctuary where sustainability is not just a practice but a way of life.
Fernglen Farm spans a diverse landscape of flatlands, terraces, and hills, each carefully tended to ensure productivity while preserving biodiversity. Over the years, the family have planted native bush, managed streams, and implemented erosion control measures to safeguard their precious land for future generations.
Just kilometres away, another parcel of land extends their stewardship—a mosaic of flat country, hill terrain, and retired native bush, fostering a rich tapestry of wildlife and agriculture. This expansion allows them to deepen their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable farming practices.
The family’s efforts extend beyond the farm gates by actively reducing carbon emissions through reforestation, manage fertilizers and effluents to protect water quality, and continuously improve our environmental stewardship practices. Awards, such as the Beef and Lamb Livestock Award in 2011, validate their dedication to holistic farming methods that prioritize both environmental sustainability and product excellence.
As they look ahead, their mission remains steadfast—to produce high-quality sheep milk products that reflect their values of health, sustainability, and ethical farming. The journey of Fernglen Farm is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and the land, a commitment that echoes through the verdant hills and flowing streams of their beloved home. Each day, the family together strives to nurture not just a farm, but a legacy of responsible stewardship that honours the land and its bounty for generations to come.
The Cheese Wheel is proud to join the Fernglen Farm family on their journey to artisan cheese making.
DISCOVER NZ ARTISAN CHEESE EACH MONTH
Either as a MONTHLY CHEESE BOX SUBSCRIPTION (make the most of our $10 OFF welcome offer, code WELCOME2TCW) or AS A ONE-OFF BOX, you’re just one click away from receiving delicious NZ artisan cheese straight to your door.
