Lives and Livelihoods

Outstanding achievements by outstanding Individuals

Chris & Marie Muldoon – Midway, Douglas-Daly

The innovative farming methods of Chris and Marie Muldoon, from the Douglas-Daly’s Midway Station, made the judges sit up and take notice when deliberating on who should win the inaugural National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Innovation in Agriculture Award for Sustainability in 2009.

The Muldoons beat stiff competition from around the country to clinch the award and were thrilled to be recognised for their work in implementing a long-term environmental sustainability plan. The plan has included introducing a cell grazing system, reducing herbicide and fertiliser use and carrying out pasture improvement.

By introducing such measures, the Muldoons have boosted their farm production while also achieving environmentally-sustainable results. They have saved significant costs due to pasture improvement and have also boosted their carrying capacity.

The Muldoons were the first Top End producers to adopt a cell grazing system and, in the space of four years, had not only met their key aims but, in some cases, exceeded them. They have led the way in introducing innovative grazing practices to the Territory and other Territory producers have followed their lead.

“We love what we do at Midway and we are passionate about our cattle and protecting our land,” Chris Muldoon says. “This is where we want to bring up our children so we are committed for the long-term.”

The Muldoons now have two young farmers for the future, Jock and Elizabeth, to carry on the family name and reap the rewards of the new-age methods their Mum and Dad are using to make sure the land their inherit remains in top shape.

Source: NTCA Cattlenews – May 2009