TANYA Quant and her family have been quietly raising eyebrows, and geese, from their hobby farm in Brookfield for the past 25 years.
Specialising in rare and heritage breeds, their feathered fascination has blossomed into national acclaim, with their flock dominating poultry shows across the country.
“We’re what you’d call poultry fanciers,” Tanya said.
“It’s a bit left field and hard for people to understand sometimes, so we’re passionate about educating the public about these incredible birds.”
Although they began showing their Chinese Brown geese just three years ago, the family has quickly built a reputation on the national circuit.
Now managing eight rare goose breeds listed on the Rare Breeds Trust of Australia’s watch and critical lists, Tanya’s aim is more than ribbons, it is preservation.
At this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show, where geese were the feature breed, the family’s Roman Tufted gander took out Champion of Any Other Variety.
They also claimed four Reserve Champion titles and multiple placings in what was a fiercely competitive year, with 170 geese judged by esteemed UK expert Grahame Hicks.
Their Giant Dewlap Toulouse goose went on to win Champion Goose at the NSW State Waterfowl Championships, also taking Best Heavy Breed.
A Pomeranian gander was named Best Medium Breed.
Their winning streak continued at the Brisbane Royal 2024 and Canberra Royal, where they took home both Champion and Reserve Champion Goose titles.
Breeding geese, especially rare ones, isn’t easy.
“They only lay eggs during a short season each year, and large breeds like the Giant Dewlap Toulouse are particularly tricky to hatch,” Tanya explained.
Their success is matched by their community spirit.
The family regularly volunteers at shows and mentors young poultry enthusiasts.
“Geese make great pets too,” Tanya added.
“They’re smart, gentle, and very affectionate, especially if you hand-raise them.”
From paddock to podium, this Brookfield flock is turning heads and keeping rare breeds alive.
By Shannon BENTON
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