Established in 1945, Counsel Farms has grown as a post-war pioneering operation led by Stuart's grandfather into one of the most efficient and forward-thinking farms in the Wubin region.
At Counsel Farms, efficiency isn't just a goal — it's a way of life. Based in Wubin, Western Australia, this third-generation family business manages over 15,000 hectares across multiple properties. With expanding operations, seasonal labour requirements, and tight spray windows, Stuart Counsel needed a better way to manage water, fertiliser, diesel, and fire response.
What followed was not just one improvement — but a farm-wide upgrade across multiple systems: spray efficiency, fuel logistics, fire readiness, and workforce support. The result? A set of fit-for-purpose Coerco solutions tailored for real-world demands — helping Counsel Farms lift performance across every corner of their operation.
Counsel Farms' custom tank layout was designed for speed, safety, and operational overlap. Stuart collaborated closely with Coerco and reseller partners to create a site that supports:
“Our blocks are spread out, so we can’t afford to have machines waiting on water. We wanted to keep everything moving — and keep our machines off the road.”
The design includes high-volume 3" plumbing, stainless check valves, and flexible hosing to minimise stress on tanks and fittings. Tanks are placed on reinforced concrete, and the fill points are designed to eliminate downtime during delivery or draw-off.
“We drew it all up ourselves, worked with Brad from Coerco to make it happen, and now we’re getting delivery, spraying, and even airstrip loading happening at once.”
During last year’s spraying window, this setup enabled Counsel Farms to finish a full spray program across a key block before a major rainfall event — eliminating the need for costly aerial spraying afterwards.
Fuel logistics were once a serious time and safety concern at Counsel Farms.
“We had people towing double fuel trailers across paddocks. It was inefficient and not safe for newer staff.”
Today, Coerco diesel tanks on mobile trailers have eliminated double-pumping and unnecessary trips to the workshop. These tanks are placed in strategic locations and refilled directly by Dunning’s fuel trucks in the field.
“When you’re running hard, these tanks get filled two to three times a week. They’re easy to use, and anyone can run them — whether it’s a seasoned operator, a backpacker on day one, or even one of my young daughters helping out on the farm. Everyone here ends up needing to refuel something at some point, so it’s critical the gear works for everyone.”
Unlike the water, fertiliser, and diesel systems which were major infrastructure upgrades, Counsel Farms’ approach to fire protection has been more gradual — but no less important.
Stuart has been building his fleet of Coerco Compact Firefighter units over the years as his property size and risk profile have grown.
“Our oldest one is over 15 years old. Still going. We just upgrade the motor when needed and keep them running. They’re first on scene every time.”
“One of our oldest units got tipped over on the back of a truck and ended up with a crack in the side — but the boys just welded it up and it’s still going. You don’t throw them out, you just keep adding to the fleet.”
Counsel Farms now runs five Coerco firefighter units:
When a lightning strike sparked a fire near the property, this preparedness paid off.
“Having water close by was critical. And Coerco even came out with extra support. That tank helped get it under control.”
Staffing is an ongoing challenge for most large farms — but Counsel Farms is making it work.
“We provide meals, accommodation, and try to make it enjoyable. You get better results with happy staff.”
“We invest in gear that’s easy to use. That means anyone can get the job done.”
Stuart's team includes seasonal workers, repeat backpackers, and returning Kiwis. With clear communication, good food, and quality equipment, he’s built a crew that gets the job done fast and well.
“It’s not just about having the right tanks or equipment — it’s about building a system that matches how you run your farm. From layout and plumbing to usability and access, Coerco understood that every detail needed to work for our team and our operation.”
Counsel Farms’ success with Coerco wasn’t just about getting the right products — it came down to working with the right people.
Over the years, Stuart has built strong working relationships with the Coerco team, including long-serving agriculture specialist Craig Whyte.
“The people at Coerco are friendly, easy to talk to, and very knowledgeable. If there’s ever an issue, it just gets fixed. No questions asked.”
From early planning chats to onsite design with Brad, and reliable follow-ups from the team in Dalwallinu, Stuart says the ongoing support has been a big part of why things have worked so well.
“When you call, you’re speaking to someone who knows what they’re doing — and knows the farm. It’s straight to the point, and we get the job done.”
Counsel Farms shows what’s possible when you combine practical planning with local support and engineered products.
INSIGHT: Despite Stuart's modest take on it, his setup is widely regarded as one of the most advanced in the region.
“It’s maybe not the perfect system, but it works for us — and we’re always developing it.”
Contact Coerco to start your own upgrade today.