Swettenham Stud

Swettenham Stud is just 90km north of the state capital city of Melbourne and is easily accessible for local and international visitors. Swettenham Stud encompasses 900 acres of improved pasture on well drained loams with Goulburn River frontage.

The stud is abounded by some of the premier properties of the entire region. Mitchelton (a neighbour) and Chateau Tabilk are two vineyards to the immediate north and Northwood Park to the south surround and enhance a truly magnificent property and setting.

The land was always well regarded as a cattle property in the hands of the Sleigh family prior to its acquisition in 1995. Since then it has been transformed into an efficient and very functional stud facility and the stallion paddocks below the office along the river encompass what a stunning environment it is for any thoroughbred to enjoy.

Paddocks and fencing are of the highest standard, being built specifically for horse safety and practicality. The property was entirely re-fenced in 1995 when it was purchased. The majority of the paddocks are double fenced with lanes separating paddocks, enabling isolation and ease of management for large numbers of broodmares as befits a large commercial stud operation.

The stud can accommodate up to eight stallions in stallion boxes and barns and has a modern well ventilated barn for yearlings and another for mares and foals. Also located on the farm is an isolated veterinary hospital area with hospital boxes and a laboratory that facilitate the work of the resident full time veterinarian. A foaling unit complete with lights is also an integral feature of the farm.

The Swettenham gardens around Adam Sangster’s home were commenced in 1939 and designed by famed writer on gardens at the time in Jennifer Stackhouse. The terraces were sculptured by horse and scoop and the gardens have featured in Greatest Gardens of Australia. The property is well tended by the full and part-time gardeners.