About Cressbrook Station
History
Settled in July 1841 by David Cannon McConnel, Cressbrook Station is the oldest identified family business in Queensland, and one of the oldest in Australia, still operated by the original family on the same property.
Now run by David's great-great-great-granddaughter, the McConnel family have a rich and affectionate inter-generational relationship with the Dungibara people, who still live in the local community today.
Beef Cattle
Until the mid-1950s, Cressbrook Station was home to the first Hereford stud in Queensland.
Today, the McConnel family run a self-replacing herd of approximately 500-head of commercial beef cattle consisting of Droughtmaster, Brangus, Ultra Black & Charolais on improved pasture, utilising cell-grazing techniques first implemented by third-generation farmer & custodian, Edgar McConnel in the mid-1920's to maximise soil health.
Since then, each subsequent generation has continued to evolve land, water, and stock management techniques to ensure that all primary production operations remain environmentally sustainable.
Agrivoltaics
The McConnel family were early adopters of large-scale solar systems for the purposes of exporting power to the main grid and are currently the only known farmers in Australia with dual-axis solar trackers designed to co-exist with cattle grazing.
Since 2010, fifth-generation farmer & custodian, Christopher McConnel, has privately installed over 100kW of solar designed with multi-purpose land use in mind in circumstances where mixed farming remains the best environmental & economical use of prime agricultural land.
The McConnel family also utilize solar bores, whilst their home - which is the oldest residence in Queensland - maintains battery storage capabilities enabling it to operate off the main grid.
Expertise
Recognised as a young leader and top agribusiness professional in Australia given her unique experience as a sixth-generation farmer, strategic legal advisor, non-executive director & chairperson, Caitlin McConnel is responsible for the day-to-day management of Cressbrook Station Pastoral.
In 2024, Caitlin was recognised as one of the most influential lawyers in Australasia aged under 40 who have had an extraordinary impact on the profession or society as a result of her work in environmental law, climate-litigation, and food security.
Coupled with her legal expertise, Caitlin is utilising her knowledge of agroecology to demonstrate how Cressbrook Station aligns with the principles of climate-smart farming as defined by the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization, and as required by international legal treaties pertaining to environmental protection.
Contact Us
Cressbrook Station is a privately owned family home and working farm near Toogoolawah in South-East Queensland, Australia. As a result, the property is not open to the general public, and any site visits are strictly by appointment only.
For more information about the McConnel family, the history of Cressbrook Station, or the current mixed farming operations, please contact the team using the contact form below.
