Foresight and innovation wins top prize for Muller Station team

Amy Russ

Steve and Mary Satterthwaite have worked tirelessly for over four decades to turn a massive 38,860-hectare property into an award-winning high-country business that is renowned for its high-quality Merino sheep and Angus cattle.

Located in the stunning Awatere Valley, Muller Station has long been a labour of love for the Satterthwaite family who had the foresight to approach the property with innovative farming techniques and bring it to a place held in high regard.

Cementing their dedication, the family and Muller Station were recently crowned as the region’s Westpac Osgro Seed Marlborough Farmer of the Year 2024.

The Satterthwaite’s were up against some tough competition but garnered the judge's attention with their innovative and standout financial performance approach.

Reflecting on their journey, Steve says taking the station from its undeveloped state to where it is now is a key highlight for him. “Back then there was minimal fencing/subdivision, no fertilizer usage and animal performance was average. Broom infestation was also a major issue and seeing where we are now, relative to then, is satisfying.”

Winning the esteemed Marlborough Farmer of the Year title has been a humbling experience for Steve who runs Muller Station together with Mary and their children Alice and Ben.

"Especially for me, nearing the end of my farming career. With our children becoming more involved I felt it was a good time to enter the competition and seeing the whole family recognised as contributing to the outcome has been fantastic!

“We are lucky that we farm an inherently healthy landscape, which with the right management, allows quality products to be produced.

“Continuing to improve our genetics is also key to keeping going forward as is having meaningful relationships with our key suppliers/customers.”

As part of the benefits of being crowned the winners, the Satterthwaite’s will host a Field Day, showcasing Muller Station.

“We look forward to having a good day out with some relevant speakers. And will be highlighting the way we run our business and the dedication to the land that is the engine room, and with this, show that ALL land needs management (whether farmed or not) and that it needs to be proactive but sensitive,” says Steve.

Initially lined up for April, the Satterthwaite family and the MFOTY committee, decided to postpone the event until early November ‘24.

“This decision wasn’t made lightly,” says competition chair Simon Harvey. “But due to the current dry conditions and high fire risk, is the safest option for all involved. Keep an eye out for the new date, in early November.”

For more information on the event contact Simon Harvey at slh@glenorkney.co.nz, or email marlboroughfoty@gmail.com.