Field day a full farming experience

New Gidgegannup Small Farm Field Days president Jennifer Kent knows first-hand what it takes to manage a small landholding.

Ms Kent's 32.4ha block 6km out of Gidgegannup is home to cows, horses, alpacas, sheep and chickens, not to mention two dogs and multiple goldfish.

"We have been here for 10 years," she said.

"My husband Ian works full time so I take care of things on the farm."

Ms Kent is also kept busy tending to a vegetable garden that supplies the family with fresh, seasonal produce.

"We love the peace and quiet of living in a rural setting and it is a wonderful getaway for our children and grandchildren, who visit regularly," she said.

"Working outdoors and maintaining the property keeps us fit and healthy, because there is always a job waiting to be done."

The family used to breed and sell Lowline Angus, but now their herd of seven are used to keep their pastures down. Ms Kent said it meant they did not have to slash paddocks, reducing fire risk on the property.

"We chose the Lowline because they are a small breed and better suited to our small holding," she said. "We put in a crop of oats each year as feed for them during the summer months."

The family's alpacas and sheep are kept as pets, while their daughter - who lives separately on the property - rides the horses.

As president of this year's field day and chairwoman of Experience Gidgegannup, Ms Kent said it was important to promote Gidgegannup and wider Perth Hills area.

"It is important to us to promote the area to help local business, but also to give city children and their families the opportunity to see a different lifestyle," she said.

The Gidgegannup Small Farm Field Day is on Sunday, May 25 from 9am at the Gidgegannup Showgrounds.