The Life and Legacy of John Riddoch
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John Riddoch was born on October 27, 1827, in Turriff, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. In 1851, he migrated to Victoria, Australia, with his brother George and their parents, arriving just as the gold rush began. Riddoch took on various roles, working as a carter, gold digger, and buyer before saving enough money to purchase a general store in Geelong, where he became a successful wine merchant.
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In 1861, with significant financial borrowings, Riddoch purchased Yallum Park, including the adjoining Katnook Station, as a freehold property. The acquisition came just before the shearing season in October, during a period when wool production was emerging as a major driver of economic growth. Improved farming techniques had contributed to a boom in wool exports to England, which surged from 33 tons in 1815 to 16,300 tons in 1849.
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A meticulous innovator, Riddoch introduced the practice of washing sheep before shearing to remove grass seeds, twigs, and burrs from the wool, significantly improving the quality of his clip. He invested in cutting-edge technology, including a lever press for washing and compressing wool into bales. Additionally, he commissioned architect William Thomas Gore to design a rectangular woolshed with a striking timbered interior and accommodation for an entire shearing team. Riddoch’s attention to detail and commitment to producing the finest wool in the region earned him the highest prices for his clip in South Australia by 1871.
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The wool industry dominated Australia’s colonial economy during this period. Between 1860 and 1892, sheep numbers on the Australian continent soared from 20.1 million to over 106 million. Wool production increased nearly tenfold, rising from 26,753 tons to 289,380 tons—a reflection of improved breeding and heavier fleece weights.
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In 1865, Riddoch entered politics, winning a seat in the South Australian House of Assembly for the district of Victoria, which included Mount Gambier and Penola. He shared this honor with the renowned Australian poet Adam Lindsay Gordon. Riddoch served from 1865 to 1870 and again from 1871 to 1873, representing the region with dedication and integrity.
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By 1880, John Riddoch had become the most influential figure in South Australia's southeast. His extensive land holdings, which included Yallum, Monbulla, and Glencoe Stations, spanned 385 square miles and supported at least 110,000 sheep (some estimates suggest as many as 160,000) and 3,000 cattle. His brother George, who had invested in his own land, managed Yallum Park, allowing John to focus on his parliamentary duties.
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Riddoch’s newly completed Yallum Park homestead became a central hub for visiting dignitaries. In 1881, he hosted Prince George (later King George V) and Prince Albert Victor, who were traveling as midshipmen aboard HMS Bacchante. The royal visitors enjoyed their time at Yallum, participating in wheelbarrow races on the lawns and forming a fond connection with the local community.
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John Riddoch was widely respected for his generosity, civic spirit, and commitment to his community. As a member of the Australian Pastoralists’ Union and a patron of the southeast region, he earned the affection and esteem of his peers. His enduring contributions to the region’s prosperity and welfare earned him the affectionate title of “The Squire of Penola.”