The Styrian “Farm of the Year” proves impressive in the current debate over full column floors in the stables: conventional pig farmers can keep their animals on straw and are rewarded in many ways.
Only 20 minutes passed between our announcement that they wanted to visit the Southeast Styrian farm and our arrival. There is no time to bring stables to a high shine or to improve otherwise – and yet the Augustins in Unterauersbach at Gnas Lightning, inviting, the straw clean and thickly spread.
“This is always the case with us because it is our philosophy,” explains Daniela, Helmut and son Philipp, a gifted cook. Her pigs live on straw outdoors, walk a clean walk in the interior of the stable and, if they want, lie on fully concrete without columns, including underfloor heating and air conditioning. Although 240 is not a small number.
The triggers were important experiences: “We had piglets who had previously lived on straw and then came too fat on full columns. We felt uncomfortable ourselves.” And completely new thought of building the stable.
From witches to the ear: everything is used
But does that work financially? Yes, the Augustins say for various reasons. It is refined itself, also brought to the market of the farm – the meat of the happy “grunzis” is so good that it is torn out of the hands of the southeastern styians. From Haxel to the ear everything is used. 300 products are, from steak to goulash meat to the famous sausages, for many the best in the world. Buseschänken and Gastro are also supplied.
And you save money from the quality seals: “We rely on transparency instead and show what we offer”. Philosophy: “We want to make quality meat affordable! You don’t have to eat meat every day.”
No combat stress
Incidentally, the pigs are also saved the battle stress and – in so many cases of horrible – transport. Slaughtered at home. Pastorism is also planned for the future, then it will be even better.
It is noticeable that everyone is satisfied here: the Augustin-Hof radiates a welfare atmosphere. With funny growling pigs in the background, the babbling fountain in the foreground, the call of the tower falcons above us. And sympathetic hosts. By the way, Philipp, who learned with four port in the restaurant, is planning to plan a good dinner on the site.
“The more colorful a forest, the better”
With this DNA, the Augustins were given the coveted title “Farm of 2025”. But placing second and third place are also impressive: Wolfgang Friedl from Garrach near Gutenberg is a highly decorated Noriker breeder and contains 19 of the characterful animals. Johannes and Karin Cornides rely on climate mathematics for forestry and cattle breeding in Landl – and ulcers: “The more colorful a forest, the better!”
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
