Harvester: Chooks at the Rooke & Xavier Prime, refusing the status quo

Xavier Prime’s journey into the poultry industry is rooted in his childhood on his family farm, where he first discovered a love for chickens by showing Anconas at agricultural shows. His early years were spent delivering eggs for his father's refrigeration courier business, but it wasn’t until a chance encounter with a Kelpie named Turbo in Darwin that Xavier’s dream of owning his own farm truly took flight. This dream became reality with the creation of Chooks At The Rooke.

At Chooks At The Rooke, Xavier’s dedication to animal welfare and environmental stewardship is evident in every aspect of his work. He believes in providing his chickens with purposeful, pasture-raised lives, ensuring that they are healthy and happy. This commitment to quality not only fulfills Xavier but also gives him the freedom to work on his terms, creating a farming operation that reflects his deep respect for nature.

Each day at Chooks At The Rooke begins with Xavier and his team, delivering eggs to local cafes, followed by tending to the cockerels, egg layers, and Maremma dogs that guard the flock. Xavier’s passion for his work shines through in the care he takes with every detail, from the chickens' living conditions to the quality of the eggs they produce. His farm is a model of responsible farming, where every egg is a testament to his commitment to sustainability and animal welfare.

“Each day at Chooks At The Rooke begins with Xavier and his team, delivering eggs to local cafes, followed by tending to the cockerels, egg layers, and Maremma dogs that guard the flock.”

Xavier has also championed regenerative farming principles, focusing on the long-term health of his land in Cororooke. One of his notable contributions is finding a valuable use for day-old male chicks, a previously wasted byproduct of the egg industry, turning them into a sustainable source of protein. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also exemplifies his dedication to making a positive impact on the environment.

Despite the challenges of small-scale farming, Xavier’s energy and passion for his work remain unwavering. He continues to produce some of the highest quality eggs and poultry on the market, all while maintaining a humble, unassuming approach to his success.

Supporting small-scale poultry farmers like Xavier Prime is crucial for preserving the true value of food production and ensuring the sustainability of our food systems. Xavier’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible farming and the difference one person can make in their local community and beyond.