Almost 40 years ago Lou and Anna Serafin purchased Farm 1328, a typical MIA property of 176 hectares, in the area known as The Kooba Farms.
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Rice, fat lambs and winter crops were the normal programs carried out; particularly rice, being the main crop for the district.
The Serafins raised their family on the farm and its success formed the start of a significant rural enterprise with three sons now owning a large area of productive irrigation property in the area.
With the onset of drought, Lou and Anna could see water becoming tight in supply and in 2004 a plan to produce more income per megalitre was investigated.
The decision was made to convert about half the property to wine grapes, which proved highly successful, particularly in the selection of varieties.
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay grapes were planted initially, followed by Pinot Gris and Petit Verdot in 2005 and 2008, along with Cabernet Sauvignon in 2008.
A fully computerised drip irrigation system was installed as the plantings took place.
Excellent yields of quality fruit, which are sought by wineries, is produced annually with up to 1800 tonnes being achieved.
In addition, traditional crops of rice and winter cereals have been grown on the fully landformed remaining land.
However, after many years of hard and successful work, the vendors wish to retire and need to sell the family farm.
Farm 1328 has an extensively renovated family home with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, large farm office, three living areas and modern kitchen, set in established gardens with a cabana and double garage.
Working improvements include two large machinery sheds, workshop/pump shed, chemical store and wash bay.
Located centrally in the MIA and just 20km via a major road from Griffith, Farm 1328 will be auctioned on Wednesday, June 7 at 2pm at the Griffith Southside Leagues Club.