After two generations of farming at Thorpdale in Gippsland, the Forsyth family have sold their farm.
Former Landmark Thorpdale livestock agent Jim Forsyth, together with his father Stuart, clocked up more than 70 years in the industry.
Jim Forsyth handed over the management of the livestock agency to Landmark’s Jason McGuiness in 2009.
An industry stalwart, Stuart Forsyth was instrumental in building the Thorpdale sheep yards which are still in use today.
Stuart’s dedication to clients and solid work ethic rubbed off on Jim in his younger days.
While the selling of sheep and cattle is a lot more efficient these days, Jim had maintained that hard work ethic.
Jim is well known for growing prime cattle, as well as his love for Thorpdale, known for some of the best red soil to farm.
Jim commenced paying football at 13, and at the young age of 15 was drafted by Essendon football club, where he payed for 5 years.
Following this Jim then played state football for South Australia, until 1972.
Returning to Thorpdale, Jim started working for Gippsland and Northern, and later became a commission agent for them.
“My biggest year was in 2007, when I turned over $12 million in sheep and cattle,” he said.
“I remember when we sold 8700 lambs at Thorpdale, but there are less sheep in the area now.”
Having recently sold the farm, Jim sold his last cattle in a large offering at Leongatha, last Thursday.
The quality, 80 Hereford and Angus steers sold from $1360-$1550 a head, equating to the sale’s top price of the day in live weight terms.
The line of Herefords, weighed 477-581 kilograms, were bred by Chris and Janine Cooper, Wulgulmerang, formerly, Buff Rogers and Connleys, Benambra.
Jim’s offering of Angus steers were bred by Hookey Agriculture at Cowwarr, and these were 482-513kg.
“I will miss the camaraderie and the many friends I have made,” he said.
Jim, who is now over 70 years of age, will be retiring in Coffs Harbour, NSW.