Variability the key for ex-tomato grower

A former tomato grower in a previous life, Gerard Ryan is now enjoying the variability of mixed farming at his property about 10km south of Echuca.

Gerard Ryan, from Echuca South, preparing land for lucerne sowing. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin

A former tomato grower in a previous life, Gerard Ryan is now enjoying the variability of mixed farming at his property about 10km south of Echuca.

It is part of a portfolio of about 800ha across give properties between Echuca and Rochester, in which he grows crops, a little hay and runs sheep.

Mr Ryan moved to the area about 40 years ago after living in Rochester, and previously worked as a tomato grower.

“I just stopped when the price hung around $100/ton for years, and costs were going up and I just decided to pull the pin about 15 years ago,” he said.

“A few blokes got out, because every year you had to be more efficient and cut your costs.

“But it’s all turned around since, and prices have picked up to what they probably should be.”

However Mr Ryan said he wouldn’t return to the industry anymore, and loves the variability and different types of jobs he can now do daily.

“Would love to, but I’m too old. It’d be like a boxer going back into the ring when he’s 50,” he said.

Mr Ryan said September rainfall for his area was “minimal” and “leaves a lot to be desired”.

“We probably had under 20mm around here for the month,” he said.

Mr Ryan is currently rejuvenating a 24ha paddock to prepare for lucerne plantation, and has hybrid canola, lucerne and a few grass paddocks for his sheep in the ground.