It was a case of deja vu for Alex and Ann Restieaux. Until 15 years ago, the Clinton farmers grew 100ha of grain a year on their 375ha farm, but then low prices and better fortunes in sheep prompted them to trim back the cropping area and expand their flock.
Now, the tide has turned in the other direction, and Mr and Mrs Restieaux plan this year to increase the cropping area from 15ha back to 100ha of oats and barley.
"It gives us another stream of income."
It is not just cows which are replacing sheep.
The Restieauxs are disposing of between 800 and 1000 stock units, made up of yearling cattle, ewes and ewe lambs.
Mr Restieaux said the drought last year was a trigger, with ewes losing condition, but there was also frustration at the low price for lambs.
He doubted farmers would receive the $150 a lamb promoted in a Federated Farmers campaign, as consumers were already balking at the expense.
Their farm terrain, rainfall and soils gave them choice, including converting to dairying, which Mr and Mrs Restieaux rejected because their children were not keen.
They have upgraded their harvester, bought a second tractor and installed storage and drying equipment in what they saw as an investment for the future.
"We hope this is for the long term."