The Margaret River Marron Farm

The Margaret River Marron Farm was established in 1976 as Western Australias first ever aquaculture enterprise. Our property was chosen because of the moderate climate and its abundant pollution free water supply flowing from the adjacent state forests.

Marron is a name given to large freshwater crayfish found in the Southwest corner of Australia. The species have been identified as Margaret River (hairy) marron (Cherax tenuimanus) and smooth marron (Cherax cainii).

The hairy marron occupies a narrow range within the southwestern biogeographical region of Margaret River, Western Australia. It is currently under threat from the wider ranged smooth marron which was introduced to its habitat.

Marron make excellent eating, very similar in taste to lobster. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as boiling or grilling, and again similarly to lobster, the shells will turn a bright red colour when cooked. Marron are considered a luxury product and are the subject of a developing aquaculture industry in Western Australia. In Western Australia, recreational fishing for marron is tightly controlled, with a limited season, permits required and minimum sizes.

Please click here to download a fact sheet all about this incredible creature. (Source: Department of Fisheries)

The Marron Farm still exists on the same property and is amalgamated with Witchcliffe Estate. We run six working ponds and have six dams on the property. Our pristine environment and careful farming ensures the continuation of this delicate species. At the cellar door at Witchcliffe Estate, we also have a marron display room with live marron on display - from our recently hatched juveniles to our fifteen year old big boy in the tank. We have a powerpoint presentation and display cabinet so you can learn all about this fascinating freshwater crayfish.

We sell fresh, live marron a$60/kg for you to take away and cook yourselves up a gourmet feast.

A kilo will feed two adults as a main meal, or four adults as an entree. Due to variations in size, you can expect to get three or four large marron to a kilo, or up to ten plate size (small) marron.

We even sell eskies and ice blocks at $5 each so you needn't worry about having to refrigerate your marron - they will survive up to five days out of water as long as they are kept cool.

And best of all you can pair up a lovely Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc with your marron and take away a feast fit for a king!