Poll Dorsets have long been a passion for the Douglas family, with Max Kenneth Douglas, 77, a third generation studmaster of Dorset sheep.

This year Max and his wife Coral, and their family, including children Shane, Julie, Brett and Marshall, will celebrate 40 years at Abelene Park. The Douglas family shifted to Tamworth and established the Abelene Park Poll Dorset Stud in 1977 at Duncan’s Creek.

“We have the four children, eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren,” Max said.

“Two of the boys, Marshall and Brett are at home on the farm, but all of the children and grandchildren really love it and show a lot of interest in the farm and the stud. I think it has a very bright future, they are very capable.”