If you’re looking for top-quality lamb with a flavour profile unlike anything you’ll find at the supermarket, head straight to the Boorabee Dorper Lamb stall at your local farmers’ market. The business is owned and operated by Warren and Marie Wiggins, and they specialise in 100% grass-fed and grass-finished Dorper lamb – a breed known for its rich, marbled meat and exceptional cooking qualities.
‘We’ve got all the cuts,’ Warren says. ‘Whether you’re after something for the slow cooker or ready for the barbeque, we’ve got your needs covered.’ Popular slow-cook options include shanks, neck chops with big marrow bones, shoulders, and leg roasts. For the barbeque, you’ll find loin chops, cutlets, leg steaks, and lamb ribs that crisp up beautifully thanks to the Dorper’s natural marbling.
Originally from South Africa, Dorper sheep are a low-maintenance breed that self-shed – meaning no shearing is needed. More importantly, their meat is tender and flavourful, with marbling that’s been compared to wagyu beef. ‘When you cook it, the fat renders in the pan, so it basically cooks in its own juices,’ Warren explains. ‘It gets that crispy outer edge that’s just amazing.’
But Boorabee Dorper isn’t just about meat. They also produce tallow-based products from the lamb’s kidney fat, including cooking oil, a rich moisturiser, soap, and even a lip balm. ‘It’s great for acne, rashes, dry skin, even nappy rash in babies,’ Warren says. ‘It’s full of natural goodness.’
Dorper lambs are raised on an 80-acre farm in Bexhill, near Lismore, and are never fed grain. ‘It’s all about keeping things natural,’ says Warren. ‘And we’re proud to be part of such a great market community.’
Find Boorabe Dorper Lamb every Tuesday at New Brighton Farmers Market from 8am to 11am and every Friday at Mullum Farmers Market from 7am to 11am.
