The Hardwick family have five generations of experience within the sheep and beef industry. Through their history in farming and meat production they have witnessed the enormous impact that the dorper breed has had on the Australian sheep industry.

Witnessing the transformational changes occurring with shedding sheep in Australia, brothers Luke and James were drawn to the dorper as they are the superior shedding sheep. They are an extremely impressive breed due to their high yielding meat quality as well as their low maintenance production and suitability to the Australian climate.

In 2021, the family invested heavily to start the Deepdale Dorper stud in Toodyay Western Australia, and have since expanded their operations to “Willah”, Merrinee, Victoria. This newly developed enterprise in Victoria is managed by Wicus Cronje (Stud Master) and Brady Bowen (Farm Manager).  

Deepdale Dorper has recently been successful at the 2024 Dorper Sheep Society of Australia (DSSA) National Show, earning the prestigious title of “Supreme Exhibit” in both Dorper and White Dorper categories respectively. These accolades showcase Deepdale Dorper’s main objectives- bringing together the best genetics and industry expertise, coupled with our generations of experience to produce premier dorper rams in the country.