RG & JM Fetherstonhaugh, Glendale, Bangor, SA
The Flinders Outback region is known to many to be a harsh and dry climate in which to grow wool. But on Richard and Jacinta Fetherstonhaugh’s property Glendale at Bangor in South Australia against the steep foothills of Mount Remarkable, the unique landscape creates an unexpected slightly higher rainfall than most. Despite the additional precipitation (at an average of 450 – 500mm) the careful management and sound genetics of the Glendale sheep allow them to handle the climate with ease.
Described as your typical 21 micron South Australian merino sheep, the 2,000 Glendale sheep are shorn roughly every 6 months and produce a soft handling fleece of around 4.5kg.
Mustering the sheep up for shearing is like the namesake of the mountain – a remarkable feat. A large portion of mustering can be done on foot with the hills far too steep and rough for motorbikes. Good working dogs that are well trained are essential to help with the process. Thankfully Richard says he enjoys both the training of working dogs and hiking – with the hiking more out of pleasure than necessity!
Q. What does it mean to you to know who is wearing your wool?
A. Knowing that our wool has been made into luxurious knitwear means “a job well done!”
Q. What would you like to say to the person wearing your wool?
A. You are wearing a world class Australian product. Buy some more!