Mt. Sicker Family Farm

Located on Vancouver Island, this farm maintains a comprehensive website detailing their emu farming practices, including breeding, hatching, and raising emus. They emphasize ethical farming and provide insights into the production of emu oil and meat.

Mt. Sicker Family Farm, located in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is a 10-acre family-run emu farm operated by John and Lois Hellemond. Established over fourteen years ago, the farm specializes in a "farm to finish" approach, encompassing the entire process from hatching and raising emu chicks to producing high-quality emu oil and lean red meat.

Farm Operations

• Breeding and Hatching: The farm maintains 20 breeding hens, with egg hatching occurring between March and June each year. Chicks are raised to adulthood over a period of 16 to 18 months.

  
  

• Free-Range Environment: Emus are provided with large free-range pens to ensure proper development and natural immunity to disease. The farm utilizes a well-balanced, locally produced feed formula free from growth hormones, complemented by mountain fresh water.

  
  

• On-Site Processing: To minimize stress, the farm has an on-site processing facility, allowing for controlled and humane harvesting of emus.

  
  

Emu Oil Production

Emu oil, derived from processed emu fat, is one of the primary products of the farm. Known for its health-promoting properties, the oil is produced entirely on-site under strictly controlled conditions, ensuring high quality and consistency for customers.

Educational Resources and Support

Mt. Sicker Family Farm is committed to supporting new and aspiring emu farmers. They offer resources such as the N'Kobi Incubator Manual and provide detailed information on raising emus, including breeding practices, chick development, and farm infrastructure.

For those interested in starting their own emu farming venture, the farm offers in-depth training and consultation services. Prospective farmers can join waitlists for emu eggs and chicks, with orders being filled as they become available.

Contact Information

To learn more about Mt. Sicker Family Farm, inquire about products, or seek guidance on emu farming, visit their website at https://www.bcemufarm.ca/.