Paterson Fern Nursery
Food in Dungog

The house he built in 1823 is partially standing and is reputed to be one of the oldest houses in the Hunter Valley. The floodplain which gives the property it’s fertility has also caused major issues with loosing of crops. It was so for William Dun, the Reynolds family the floods continue to cause difficulties to.day. Charles Reynolds was based at focal and operated a prosperous cattle breeding horse stud. I understand that Impaired Duninald was impaired as the schoolhouse for the children of the workers on Duninald and focal. The operations changed from stud farm to dairy. During the 20th century Duninald was obvious as an innovative dairy. The Reynolds continued the cattle horticultural enterprises. The cattle, Paterson Fern Nursery continue and fresh ventures undertaken. We are participating in a survey being undertaken by the Paterson Historical Association into wells in the area.

At Paterson Fern Nursery we carry up to 90 species and our staff are perpetual looking for new varieties which are pertinent for indoors and outdoors. They are a appropriate reminder of the adaptability of living things as we face major environmental challenges. To further increase the chance of survival the following is desirable: The Reynolds were pioneers in potted color, earlier becoming a specialist fern nursery. Our proximity to the river means we are able to irrigate our pastures in dry times. This means we can keep our herd intact, regardless of the weather. This is able to be fed out in the winter to retain our breeding herd in good condition. These are producers who do not have access to autonomous agricultural advice other than through these sources. We are in our third year of honey production. We say that we are at Duninald for family, friends, farming fun. Hugh’s family are also involved in the process. The bees travel up to 3 kilometers for their food source so we very much have Paterson River Valley honey. We had expected to be harvesting in February but the warm arid conditions has limited the bee food supply hence the quantity of honey. We take immense concern to ensure the cattle have access to shade in these warm days. It is imperative to provide shade neat water as healthy as appropriate pasture. On these warm days it is very cooling to be surrounded by tropical vegetation. Glad fresh year! It is over this time that our plants need attention. We believe this was a function of the parched weather in the area the reduction of food for the bees. Duninald is a property on the Paterson River in the Hunter Valley, close mainland. Duninald is the home of Paterson Fern Nursery. When we purchased the property there was an established cattle enterprise and a specialist fern nursery. These activities are carried out today as well as a boutique honey operation. My family, the Fishers, have been farming in the Hunter Valley since 1825 and through the years they have been friends of the Reynolds family.so there was a feeling of welcome when we bought the property.