The historic Challa Station in Western Australia’s Murchison region has changed ownership for the first time in more than a century. The property, which spans over 200,000 hectares, was sold in December 2023 to an undisclosed buyer, believed to be a Queensland-based company that owns adjacent properties.
The sale marks a bittersweet moment for Ashley and Debbie Dowden, who are the fifth generation of their family to manage the station since acquiring it in 1888. Although they had not actively sought to sell the property, they received an offer they felt they could not refuse. Mr. Dowden noted that the increasing influence of the carbon market was likely a significant factor in the buyer’s interest.
Factors Behind the Sale
“The carbon sector is having an increasing influence on prices paid for land in the southern rangelands area,” Mr. Dowden explained. He indicated that the existing carbon project on Challa Station was likely a key incentive for the new owners. Challa boasts substantial infrastructure necessary for running a successful cattle operation, which includes a herd of 1,000 Santa Gertrudis breeders and followers.
Mr. Dowden elaborated on the additional value Challa offers, stating, “We have built a profitable contracting business based out of Challa, equipped with graders, bulldozers, and water trucks. This aspect of the business can continue as a sideline for the new owners if they choose.”
The decision to sell was influenced by personal circumstances. Mr. Dowden underwent back surgery 18 months ago, which limited his physical capabilities. At nearly 60 years old, and with none of their four children expressing interest in taking over the operation, the Dowdens felt it was time to transition ownership.
Future Prospects and Carbon Initiatives
The buyers are expected to integrate Challa Station with their existing properties, creating a larger operational footprint. Mr. Dowden mentioned that the exceptional offer was well above market value, reflecting the strategic advantages of acquiring a property with significant infrastructure. The sale includes various assets, such as airplanes, cattle handling equipment, mobile yards, and drafting stations, essential for running a pastoral business.
Both Ashley and Debbie Dowden have been proactive in enhancing the land’s ecological health while ensuring cattle profitability. Their management strategy centers around five pillars of climate resilience, focusing on sustainable practices to improve grazing conditions and boost livestock productivity.
One of the standout projects at Challa is the Human Induced Regeneration Carbon Project, initiated in May 2020. This initiative aims to manage cattle grazing to allow native forests to regenerate, thereby sequestering carbon in mature trees. Ms. Dowden noted that they agreed to reduce cattle numbers by a third to facilitate this regeneration, implementing necessary fencing and water management strategies.
“Our efforts have significantly increased the value of Challa and other stations in Western Australia that have initiated similar carbon projects,” Ms. Dowden emphasized.
As the Dowdens prepare to relocate to their property in Gingin and continue their cattle business, they reflect on their legacy at Challa Station. Although the transition brings a sense of loss, they are optimistic about the future of the land they have nurtured for generations.
