About Us
Cambus Glen is owned and managed by Lesley Harris and Hugo Howse. After almost 25 years in engineering we decided it was time to do something different. Since we have a shared passion for the environment, livestock welfare and a good steak, ethically raised pastured livestock using regenerative farming practices ticks all the boxes.
Our farming enterprise is built around our fold of purebred Highland cattle and all of our breeding stock are registered with the Australian Highland Cattle Society (AHCS). Highland cattle were originally bred to survive and thrive in the wild and remote Scottish Highlands and are therefore perfectly suited to the wild winters and rugged landscapes of our farm.
Our goal is to breed structurally correct, medium framed animals for sale, showing and beef, whilst staying true to breed character. Our emphasis is on temperament, feet, legs and excellent udders, and our cattle are expected to perform on grass alone. They are 100% grass-fed and pasture raised with no supplemental grain feeding (except for treats when coming into the yards!) or non-essential medication.
From time-to-time we have registered Highland cattle for sale, and the Highlands also provide us with flavoursome and healthy beef which we sell at local Farmers Markets and online via the Open Food Network.
We offer accommodation on the farm, which provides the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with the cattle, and for those wishing to explore we are a 30-minute drive from the scenic South-West Victorian coast.
Highland Cattle
Highland cattle are a breed of beef cattle which originated in the Highlands and Western Isles of Scotland. They are one of the oldest registered breeds of cattle in the world with the first Highland Cattle Herd Book recorded in 1885.
The inclement climate and North Atlantic gales meant the breed is the outcome of naturally selected genetics and character to be hardy and adapted to withstand harsh landscapes. The cattle have the ability to convert poor grazing efficiently and although slower maturing due to poorer feeding and conditions, highland cattle are known for their longevity and produce calves to a greater age – it is not unusual for cows to continue breeding into their late teens. Highlands are easy-calving, attentive and protective mothers. Highland cattle are known for their calm and even temperament, and if correctly socialised and handled they are an absolute pleasure to work with.
Over the centuries, breeders have endeavoured to retain the original characteristics of the breed – hardy, easy calving and even tempered and producers of quality beef.
The Farm
Cambus Glen is our 170 acre farm near the settlement of Framlingham in South-West Victoria (Australia), an area well known as prime dairy and beef country due to moderate (~750mm) and reliable rainfall. The Scottish name Cambus Glen translates roughly as “valley where a twisting river passes”, which refers to the 3km of winding Hopkins River frontage, home to wallabies, koalas, platypus, rakali and numerous water birds. We farm using largely low-input farming methods due to their regenerative potential and ecological benefits.
Beef
Highland beef is universally recognised to be some of the best in the world. It takes time, making it a premium beef that is lean, well marbled and tender. It is a popular rumour spread by Highland breeders that Queen Elizabeth, patron of the Highland Cattle Society and owner of the exceptional Balmoral fold, ate only Highland beef.
Our 100% Scottish Highland cattle are entirely grass-fed, and pasture raised on diverse forage using regenerative farming practices. There is no supplemental grain feeding or non-essential medication, and the welfare of our animals is our highest priority.
We also have hides available upon request.
