A farmer from the Bellarine Peninsula is managing a diverse range of agricultural operations across **20 properties** in the region, serving primarily **Melbourne-based owners**. Simon Kuc oversees more than **1,200 hectares** of land, engaging in activities that include broadacre cropping, hay production, and steer fattening.
Kuc, who operates under the name **SMK Agriculture**, describes his entry into this farming role as somewhat serendipitous. “I sort of stumbled into it when I bought some haymaking equipment in my younger days,” he explained. Over the past **15 years**, he has transitioned into cropping, now dedicating approximately two-thirds of his work to broadacre cropping and hay, with the remainder focused on fattening steers for **JBS**.
The varied nature of his work provides stability, as different sectors of his operations can yield profits even when others may not. Kuc noted that the **Bellarine Peninsula** typically experiences regular spring rains, which can be advantageous for grain production, although summer months pose challenges in moisture retention.
To enhance soil quality, Kuc employs composting techniques and lime applications. He reported that the region’s well-drained soils help mitigate issues related to waterlogging, allowing for effective farming practices.
Recently, Kuc purchased **96 Angus weaner steers** during the annual sale in **Colac** for the Armstrong family, a significant investment for his operation at Rossendale in Mannerim. He collaborates closely with the late Bruce Armstrong’s sons, Campbell and Lachlan, along with son-in-law Andrew Wilson. “They will stay on the farm for **12 months** and be sold into the JBS program by Christmas this year,” Kuc stated, expressing confidence in the quality of the cattle.
Kuc has been actively improving the land for the past few years, having initially started with **70 steers** in their first year. He has introduced perennial pasture species, including cocksfoot phalaris, sub clovers, and low-endophyte grasses such as ryegrass and tall fescue.
Reflecting on his journey, Kuc recounted his academic background in agricultural science at **The University of Melbourne**, followed by a move to the Bellarine Peninsula, where he had previously established a family farm. He began the **Baie Wines** venture on that farm before pursuing broadacre farming, which ignited his passion for agriculture.
Kuc’s partnership with the Armstrong family has spanned five years. After Bruce Armstrong purchased Rossendale in **2022**, he reached out to Kuc to discuss the steer fattening operation. Tragically, Bruce Armstrong passed away in November after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that his family can continue to develop. Kuc remarked, “As the new steers arrived, Bruce would always be seen driving around them, talking to them, making them calm and easy to handle.”
One of the most pressing challenges faced by Kuc and other farmers in the area is urban encroachment, as smaller towns around the Bellarine Peninsula continue to expand. Despite this, he noted that the **Geelong City Council** has implemented plans to protect farmland and manage urban growth zones, providing reassurance that the central Bellarine area will remain viable for agricultural use.
Kuc’s experience reflects both the rewards and challenges of modern farming, underscoring the importance of adaptability and innovation in an evolving landscape.
