Nonning facts for kids
Nonning is a large sheep farm, also known as a 'station', located in South Australia. It is also the name of the area around the farm. Nonning is famous for its sheep farming, which has been happening there for a very long time.
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Where is Nonning?
Nonning is about 69 kilometres (43 mi) north of a town called Kimba. It's also about 66 kilometres (41 mi) west of Iron Knob. You can find it at the eastern end of the Gawler Range. The Gugada people are the traditional owners of the land in the Gawler Ranges area.
History of Nonning Station
Nonning Station started way back in 1864. A man named Charles Ryan first took out a lease for the land. Soon after, C. H. Leycester officially established Nonning.
Early Years and Sheep Farming
In its early days, the ownership of Nonning changed hands many times. By 1868, the property was quite large, covering about 476 square miles (1,233 km2). It had wells and dams to help with farming. At that time, it was home to over 7,000 sheep.
Later, Nonning was joined with other nearby properties called Kolendo and Coralbignie. Nonning became the main station for this bigger area. At one point, an amazing 90,000 sheep were shorn (had their wool cut off) at Nonning! The original lease for the land ended in 1888.
New Owners and Organic Status
In the 1890s, the cost to rent land went up, and many farmers left their properties. But eventually, the rent decreased again. In 1906, a group of people named McTaggart, Smith, and Gooch took over the lease for Nonning. By 1915, McTaggart became the only owner.
In 2003, a new type of sheep called Dorper sheep were brought to Nonning. These were added to the existing merino sheep. In 2010, the huge 4,000-square-kilometre (1,544 sq mi) property received a special award: it became an organic farm. This means they farm in a way that is good for the environment.
The McTaggart family stopped shearing sheep for wool in early 2009. Instead, they started raising sheep mainly for their meat. Nonning Station currently supports a large flock of about 30,000 sheep.
Community and Local Attractions
Nonning used to have its own Post Office, which opened in 1867. There was also a primary school in the area for children.
Nonning Gymkhana
Today, Nonning is known for hosting the annual Nonning Gymkhana. This is a fun event organized by the Gawler Ranges Progress Association. It helps to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which provides medical help to people in remote areas.
Coralbignie Rocks
At the southern end of the Nonning area, you can find the Coralbignie (Houlderoo) Rocks. These rocks are very important for their geology. They are listed on the South Australian Heritage Register because of their special geological features.
