Andrew comes from a farming background and spends time in the country when he needs to escape the city.
Andrew has a long history of running successful farms throughout West Gippsland, and six years ago he expanded his agricultural interests to Strathbogie Shire, purchasing a farm at Nagambie which included an historic homestead positioned on the Goulburn River with Lake Nagambie frontage.
Best known as a successful real estate agent and property developer, Andrew’s early training after leaving school was in agriculture. He holds a Degree in Agriculture from Marcus Oldham College in Geelong, and his philanthropic work continues as a Foundation Executive of the College.
In a typical year, Andrew’s farms turnover around 1,200 cattle, 4,000 sheep as well as tonnes of wheat, barley and lucerne.
He escapes to Nagambie, 90 minutes from Melbourne, whenever he can for the great climate and relaxed country living.
He says the area offers “amazing water adventures and activities, award winning food and wineries, indigenous art, historic sites, pristine fishing locations, tracks and trails, cycling, sky diving, the Strathbogie Ranges, and a whole lot more”.
To further enhance the tourist potential of Nagambie, Parklea has plans to build a 16 hectare tourist park on a former winery at Kirwans Bridge. The river-front park will offer accommodation, dining and recreation. The project is currently in the planning stage.
On his own property, Andrew enjoys getting his hands dirty, working the land and chatting about cattle and sheep prices like any ordinary farmer.
“Farming is something I have done my whole life. When I’m at my farm I feel connected to the land. It is a simple life that is also hugely satisfying. It suits me well,” Andrew said.
Andrew’s love of farming is also why Parklea is a long time sponsor of the Parklea Pakenham Show. He believes it is important that everyone be exposed to country life, even if it is only once at year at the local show.
The 2022 Parklea Pakenham Show is on this Saturday, 19 March, 2022 at the PB Ronald Reserve, Pakenham and it is a FREE event. Find out more here.