The Glen Innes Experiment Farm was gazetted in 1901.
In his 1901 report, the Chief Inspector of Agriculture emphasised the importance of establishing experimental farms stating “the sites were selected for the purpose of ascertaining (by experiment) the most suitable crops for the district, to collect facts for determination of best times to sow and plant, and various matters of that sort”
The Farm set about primarily to study and improve the agricultural and pastoral issues of the New England Tablelands, and to conduct suitable research on such that was deemed too expensive for private landowners.
The site was heavily timbered, so clearing was not easy. Predominant trees were large white gum and peppermint which do not burn easily. Some large stumps required 40 bullocks to help remove them!
Initially, paddocks were set aside for the Wheat Experimentalist, and land provided for orchard, sheep and dairying purposes. Ten acres of apple trees left from previous land use was retained. Dams and tanks were completed by June 1904.
The workmen’s hut “Mess Hut” was the first building on site. The main administration building and Manager’s residence was constructed in 1911. All of these buildings are still part of the site today.
A Farm School for apprentices commenced 1 February 1912. The students were taught practical operations of the mixed farm which included dairy, piggery, sheep, stables, clearing, fencing, garden and household work along with caring for fowl and bees.
During 1928, an Advisory Committee was established. This Committee comprising of members representing the local farming community and a representative of the Experiment Farm. This Committee met regularly to discuss work either proposed or current at the Farm with the object of obtaining a closer knowledge of the work and exchanging advice.
The New England Experiment Farm became the Glen Innes Agricultural Research Station. Since 1982 it has been referred to as the Glen Innes Agricultural Research and Advisory Station (GIARAS).
Keep an eye out in upcoming issues of Glen Innes News for more history of the Ag Station including beef cattle, pasture and sheep research.
