The Daubney family (Edith, James and daughter Joan) arrived in Northcliffe as Group Settlers in 1924 where they overcame the harsh reality of isolation and extremely hard work to forge the beginnings of their farm, now known as Bannister Downs Farm, named after Edith, who’s maiden name was Bannister.

The Daubneys had eleven children and became an integral part of the history of Northcliffe, a small South West town relying on farming and the timber industry for its survival. The original farmland continues to be owned by Daubneys and is today managed by Mathew, his wife Suzanne and their four young children (Elizabeth, Johnson, Campbell & Annalise).

Milking up to 950 cows daily, the Daubneys employ many locals from the Northcliffe region to assist in their milk production of almost 6 million litres annually. A portion of this milk is supplied to Challenge Dairy Co-operative, of which Mat & Sue are share holders.

Mathew’s parents, Robert & Alison Daubney also live and work at Bannister Downs Farm, along with Uncle Les Daubney and Aunt Valerie. The family farm together blending traditional methods shared over the generations, along with innovative approaches that are continually developing.

Northcliffe, just over four hours south of Perth, is the gateway to Windy Harbour and the home of the Karri Cup Challenge – an annual Mountain Bike Championships. Many new businesses are emerging in Northcliffe including marron, olives, vineyards and organic vegetable growing as its fertile karri soils and reliable rainfall are able to sustain premium quality fresh produce.

[from bannisterdowns.com.au]