TARCOMBE HOMESTEAD
Tarcombe, one of the original properties in Little River, Victoria, holds a rich pastoral history that dates back to the 1840s. Originally settled by North & Grass, the land was later purchased in 1864 by local railway inspector Charles Thomson, who built the striking bluestone homestead known as Sunnyside. By the early 1900s, the property had been sold to local farmer William Gleeson, who combined it with his existing land holdings and renamed it Tarcombe. After changing hands several times through the late 20th century, the Phillips family proudly took ownership in 2021, embarking on a heartfelt restoration project.
Our restoration of Tarcombe is not just about creating a home; it’s about preserving the historical and architectural essence that makes rural properties like this so significant. These efforts honour the rich cultural heritage of rural Australia, ensuring that places like Tarcombe continue to tell their story for future generations. As we restore and breathe new life into the farm, we are also returning it to its agricultural roots, combining tradition with sustainable farming practices that look to the future.
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WELSH PONIES
At Tarcombe Farm, we are committed to breeding exceptional Section B and C Welsh Ponies, focusing on both temperament and movement. Our foundation mares come from the renowned Mithril Stud, known for producing top-quality ponies that have enjoyed success in various competitive arenas. This strong foundation ensures that our ponies inherit not only outstanding genetics but also the elegance and athleticism needed for success in disciplines such as dressage.
Our Welsh Ponies are suitable for a variety of riders, whether you’re looking for a reliable and gentle pony for children or an ambitious amateur seeking their next competitive dressage partner. With a focus on character, movement, and versatility, our ponies are bred to excel in both performance and as family companions. At Tarcombe, we pride ourselves on producing ponies that balance a kind nature with the athletic ability to shine in any discipline.
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AUSTRALIAN MINIATURE & PYGMY GOATS
At Tarcombe Farm, we take pride in breeding Australian Miniature and Pygmy Goats, as well as carefully selected crosses. As registered breeders with both the National Pygmy Goat Association Of Australia Inc. and Miniature Goats Australia Association Inc., we are committed to maintaining high standards in animal care and breeding practices.
Our goats are bred primarily as pets, with a focus on temperament and friendliness. Wherever possible, we dam raise our goats to ensure natural development and bonding, while providing ample handling and interaction from an early age. This approach ensures that our goats are not only healthy but also friendly and well-socialised, making them perfect companions for families and hobby farms alike.
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APPENZELLER SPITZHAUBEN & BARNYARD CHICKENS
At Tarcombe Farm, we specialise in breeding Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens in both the stunning silver spangled and gold spangled varieties. These rare and distinctive birds are known for their striking plumage and active, hardy nature. We are proud to offer fertile eggs, young unsexed chickens, and carefully selected breeding trios of Appenzeller Spitzhaubens for enthusiasts and breeders alike.
In addition to our Appenzellers, we also breed barnyard chickens, a delightful mix of cross breeds that produce eggs in a rainbow of colours, bringing variety and beauty to your egg basket. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of colour to your flock or raise a rare breed, our chickens are bred with care to ensure quality and diversity.
TARCOMBE FJORD HORSE STUD
The Tarcombe Fjord Horse Stud is focused on the preservation and promotion of the rare Norwegian Fjord Horse breed in Australia. Born out of Harrie’s passion for these remarkable horses, the stud is committed to ethical breeding practices and the highest standards of animal welfare.
By adopting sustainable equine management techniques, including the equicentral method, the stud ensures the well-being of its horses while contributing to the genetic diversity and conservation of the breed. At Tarcombe, we’re dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation of the Norwegian Fjord Horse and promoting responsible, ethical practices within the equine community.
Meet Harrie — vet nurse and farmer behind Tarcombe
Tarcombe Farm is run by Harrie Phillips, a qualified veterinary nurse with formal training through the Australian College of Veterinary Nursing (ACVN) and the Australian College of Animal Care (ACAC). Harrie’s clinical background sits at the heart of how the farm is run — every breeding decision, housing choice and handling routine is shaped by an animal-welfare-first mindset, not commercial shortcuts. Buyers regularly tell us that being able to ask a vet nurse about housing, feeding, biosecurity and routine care makes the whole experience of bringing animals home far less stressful.
Frequently asked questions about Tarcombe Farm
Where is Tarcombe Farm?
Tarcombe Farm is located in Little River, Victoria, on Wadawurrung Country between Geelong and Melbourne. We are open by appointment only, and our exact address is shared once a visit is booked.
What animals do you breed?
We breed Australian Miniature and Pygmy Goats, Appenzeller Spitzhauben chickens, Backyard Rainbow Layers, Welsh Section B and C Ponies, and Norwegian Fjord Horses.
Can I visit the farm?
Yes — visits are warmly welcomed by appointment. Please reach out through our contact page to book a time. Visiting on the day of pickup is also a great way to ask questions and meet the animals before they go home.
What does sustainable and ethical breeding mean at Tarcombe?
It means small numbers of carefully selected breeding animals, calm handling from day one, healthcare and biosecurity led by veterinary best practice, and pastures managed using regenerative grazing so the land improves year on year. We breed for temperament, type and health — not volume.
Do you ship animals interstate?
We do not transport animals ourselves, but we are happy to recommend reputable livestock and poultry transporters. Buyers are welcome to arrange their own collection or a transport service that suits them.