A FORMER dairy farm has over the past decade been transformed into a lucerne property that has proved ideal for the location given black loam soils and three kilometres of river frontage.
And that farm, "Recluse", is now available for a new owner given the retirement plans of John Flinn, the man who saw the potential the property would offer in terms of lucerne production.
John Flinn, originally from Forbes, came to Singleton 10 years ago to purchase what was a dairy farm and transform it into a highly productive lucerne operation, which in an average year has produced in the vicinity of 45,000 small bales.
"We saw the property advertised, and we just loved it for what we wanted," he said, having the vision of what the property could be as a lucerne farm.
He installed centre pivots, as well as pumps and the irrigation system, pulled down the old dairy fences, and added hay storage and a big Clifford and Bunting commercial chaff mill.
Mr Flinn considered the property's black loam soils as a highlight; "it is as good as it gets as far as soil goes."
He said those soils were absolutely ideal for lucerne production.
All up, about 89ha (220ac) of the property is dedicated to lucerne.
"Recluse" also has a three kilometre frontage to the Hunter River, with the irrigation license from the river comprising 200 megalitres.
"Recluse" is for private sale at $3.1 million.
The 105ha (260ac) property is listed with Scott Bailey, of Max Bailey First National Real Estate, Singleton.
Mr Flinn said "Recluse" was originally a much larger dairy property taken up by the Glass family; Recluse was also the name of the locality at that time.
The large dairy property was split up in 1932.
Situated only about two kilometres from Singleton, "Recluse" today has a three bedroom sandstone house, constructed in the 1980s.
Further to that are two cottages providing ample accommodation (one has four bedrooms, the second has two bedrooms).
Infrastructure includes an old dairy complex, stockyards, hay and machinery sheds and workshops.
Mr Flinn said he has spent about $1 million upgrading the property throughout his ownership.
As an added incentive to buyers, machinery on the property is available for purchase (subject to negotiation).
Upon the sale of the property, Mr Flinn said he would miss the farming lifestyle more than anything.
"We have had a good 10 years here, carrying out these improvements; it has just been a beautiful place to be."
Contact Scott Bailey, 0407 722 705.
Nick Heydon
The Land's property editor.
The Land's property editor.
