Fifth-Generation Keith Family Wins SA’s 2025 Biosecurity Farmer of the Year Award
Documents & Downloads
A fifth generation South East farming family has been named South Australia’s 2025 Biosecurity Farmer of the Year, recognised for their leadership in practical on-farm biosecurity, strong environmental stewardship and disciplined livestock management.
The Allen family’s Warrawee Park property near Keith has been in continuous family hands since the late 1800s. Today, Simon Allen and his partner Maddie Willoughby run 6,700 acres of irrigated cropping, lucerne, seed hay and a closed Merino flock – a long-standing pillar of their biosecurity approach.
That system was put to the test two years ago when the family detected footrot in a ram mob at the start of joining. Within 24 hours they had isolated the rams, engaged veterinary support and used their laneway system to separate mobs. Eradication was underway within a month, and the flock was sound by the end of the season.
“Farmers spend most of their time looking for something they hope they don’t find – but when you do, you act immediately,” Simon said. “This award is vindication that doing the right thing pays off.”
Their biosecurity program now spans weed control, boundary fencing, feral-animal management, vehicle hygiene and close collaboration with neighbours. Planned upgrades include strengthening boundary fencing, barbed-wire additions, targeted roadside vegetation management and tighter cross-property risk-management systems.
Maddie says strong relationships underpin their approach: “We maintain clear expectations with our team and contractors so everyone is working toward the same goal.”
For the Allens, biosecurity is not an activity – it is a whole-of-business mindset.
“Biosecurity isn’t just animal health,” Simon said. “It’s weeds, vehicles, feral animals – everything that crosses a boundary. It’s everyone’s responsibility.”
He says the next decade will demand even stronger systems as climate variability, environmental pressures and rising community expectations reshape Australian agriculture.
“It’s not just about production anymore – it’s about proving we’re doing the right thing for our animals, our land and the next generation.”
This year’s award was proudly supported by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA.
CEO of Livestock – Travis Tobin quotes:
“The Allens story is a powerful example of what modern farming looks like when tradition meets innovation and best practice”.
“Their commitment to biosecurity shows how responsible management protects local industries, supports community resilience, and safeguards the future of South Australia’s livestock industry.”
“We are proud to recognise farmers who lead with integrity and long-term vision.”
Ends
- CEO Travis Tobin is available for interview.
- Simon Allen is available for interview (image provided)
Further information:
Cathy McHugh
Communications Manager
0412 515 819
About Livestock SA:
Livestock SA is the peak industry body representing South Australia’s livestock producers, including more than 5,200 sheep producers, 2,700 beef cattle producers and several hundred goat producers across the state.
South Australia’s red meat and wool industries contribute approximately $4.49 billion to the state’s economy each year, and employ over 21,000 South Australians, accounting for 28% of all agricultural sector jobs.