subject: Cattle Station Calls Out To Wealthy Investors [print this page] Investors looking for a profitable alternative within the rural or pastoral sector are the target of an unusual marketing campaign by a cattle station (cattle ranch) in central Australia.
The 2,000 square kilometre station, MacDonald Downs, currently has 5,000 head of cattle and income from retail, with potential for eco-tourism and almost any crop thanks to plentiful sub-artesian water.
The unorthodox marketing campaign is called Ultimate Toy, which encourages potential investors to view the property as more than a business opportunity it can be an exciting place to visit. The campaign includes a purpose built website at http://www.ultimatetoy.com.au as well as social media such as Facebook and an online advertising campaign to attract high-end investors.
The current owner Charlie Chalmers is set to retire, although he will remain in the area and make himself available to any new owner wanting advice, training or other assistance.
Mr Chalmers said the station (ranch) is small enough to be a family station it has been run by his family for the past three generations while big enough to generate a substantial income.
He said the auction of the station, on June 18 this year, will likely attract interest from investors or perhaps consortia of investors, from international markets. He said the business could be run by a manager while the new owners could choose to visit on occasions such as the Seasonal Muster.
There are general managers quarters and staff quarters, should the new owners wish to run the station that way, Mr Chalmers said. I could assist with the selection and employment of a manager, and any other staffing requirements that the new owners may have.
The homestead on the property is one of the most luxurious in the area, and includes a tropical swimming pool to complete the effect.
The business currently generates upwards of 500 tonnes of beef per annum, transported to the market in Darwin. There is potential to expand this production as well as add new revenues from crops, eco-tourism and other opportunities.
MacDonald Downs is about 285 kilometres north-east of Alice Springs, which is the Australian city closest to the geographical heart of the island continent.
The property comes with a helicopter that is used for mustering the cattle, along with a number of quad bikes, trucks and other heavy machinery. There are two airstrips on the property and one hangar.
Anyone wishing to find out more detail about the business of MacDonald Downs and the investment opportunity presented can find the owners contact details at the website, http://www.ultimatetoy.com.au. The auction of the business will take place on June 18, 2010.
