8 | RURAL PEOPLE » Clayton Station Innovation and adaptation are the key The property supports a complex and evolving operation. Karen Phelps At the head of the Fairlie Basin, Clayton Station is proving that innovation and adaptation are key to sustaining a modern high-country farming business. While its history stretches back generations, its current direction is firmly focused on forward-thinking systems, new genetics and diversified income streams. Now spanning 3900 hectares, reduced from its original 9140 hectares through tenure review and land sales, the property supports a complex and evolving operation. Under the stewardship of Hamish and Anna Orbell, a third-generation farmer on the land his grandparents once purchased, the focus has shifted towards maximising efficiency and embracing change. “There’s always been a need to adapt up here,” says Hamish. “The environment and the market both demand it so we’ve tried to stay open to new ideas and opportunities that make the business more resilient.” One of the most significant innovations at Clayton Station has been the development of the Changus cattle breed, a cross between Angus and Charolais, created in partnership with Kakahu in 2016. Designed specifically with the dairy industry in mind, the breed combines low birthweight and short gestation with strong growth performance. “In conjunction with Gerald Hargreaves from Kakahu we saw an opportunity to produce a calf that would not only be easy calving for dairy farmers but also have real value afterwards,” explains Hamish. “They grow exceptionally well and command a better price early on, which is important for the dairy sector.” The Changus programme has grown steadily with Clayton Station selling bulls and Kakahu selling semen there is around 140 bulls now sold annually across the South Island. A unique genetic trait appearing in some of the cattle, known as the double dilution gene, ensures calves are born silver or white when crossed with Friesian or Jersey cows, providing a clear visual marker. “It gives farmers certainty,” says Hamish. “They know exactly what they’re getting, and that’s been a big part of the demand.” Innovation is not limited to cattle. The station’s sheep system has also undergone significant refinement in recent years. After reaching the limits of traditional crossbred ewes, the focus shifted to quarterbred genetics sourced from Craigneuk Sheep Stud and The Gums. The result has been strong wool performance, with contracts secured at $17 per kilogram, alongside lambs that maintain solid weights. “We felt our ewes were becoming too large and inefficient,” says Hamish. “Moving to quarterbreds has allowed us to fine-tune the flock, improve consistency and still hit our production targets.” Cropping has emerged as another area of development with 250 hectares now producing barley, wheat, oats and oilseed rape at high yields. However it is hemp that represents the most innovative step forward. Introduced just two years ago the crop is supplied directly to The Brothers Green for use in oil and protein products. “Hemp is a really exciting niche business to be part of,” explains Hamish. “It’s been challenging at times, as it can be quite fickle with yield and harvest timing, but there are learnings every season. If consistency can be improved, it could become a much larger component of our cropping programme.” Diversification extends further, with deer farming and a trophy park operation, as well as the grazing of around 600 Wagyu cattle for additional cashflow. Across the 800 hectares of flats and 3100 hectares of hill country, flexibility remains a central theme. Behind these innovations is a strong family and team foundation. Hamish’s wife Anna manages the accounts, while their three children - Alice, Get in touch Brent Love Christchurch 027 528 1537 Michelle Martin Ashburton 027 693 1103 Charlotte Blackman Timaru 03 684 0235 Find out more 17, Arthur, 15, and Jack, 13 - represent the fourth generation connected to the property. Four full-time staff, alongside casual workers, support the day-today running of the station. “None of this happens without good people,” says Hamish. “Innovation is important, but it’s the team and the willingness to keep improving that really drives the business forward.” 021 0849 7055 | whittakerag@gmail.com For all your ground spraying needs Locally owned and operated by Tom & Jess Whittaker. For all your spraying needs & questions, give us a call! Proudly supporting Clayton Station Proud to support Clayton Station Ph: 021 523 291 | Email: info@bhfencing.nz Ben Haugh Fencing MEMBER • High country fencing • Farm fencing • Line preparation • Shed Building • Deer, cattle & sheep yard construction
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