Bawdens is a family owned, small business with a big picture mindset.

Based in Tumby Bay on the lower Eyre Peninsula of South Australia, we offer all the latest solutions and knowledge, but with a local touch. Plus we are constantly innovating to satisfy the needs of our loyal customers.

This has been our philosophy since the beginnings of the business back in the 1980s at Bawden’s Garage. It was here that James Bawden joined his brother Donald and started a sideline selling farm supplies and agricultural inputs. This clearly met a need and by 1992, Bawden’s Rural Supplies needed its own premises, which they purpose-built next door to the garage.

In 1991, as the 'corporates' seemed to be taking over the farm input market, Bawdens was one of 10 independent stores who formed a new group - National Rural Independents (NRI). As the inaugural company secretary, James played a key role in establishing this group which enables us to provide wholesale pricing benefits to our customers while retaining independence as a small business.

Building on this proud history,  Bawdens continues to operate with a service based philosophy. We are constantly seeking ways to add value for our customers. Whether that is providing a reliable supply of the latest, value-for-money products or offering innovative modern services.

If you would like to know more about the way we do things, call in and have a chat with us next time you’re in town!