The Toonen family from Lunteren is a well-known name in the agricultural sector. Our family has been in this business since 1983. It all started when I (Teus Toonen) started farming at the age of 21. As the third generation farmer in the family, I have inherited the skills of my grandfather and parents. In the early years, my wife Ineke and I mainly dealt with dairy cattle, bulls and calves, but in 1994, we decided to focus entirely on rearing calves. I am always concerned about the welfare of animals and I make sure each individual animal gets the care and attention it deserves. The Peter's Farm Rosé Beter Leven (Better Life) system, which we started in 2023, supports these ideals. Calves receive unlimited fibre-rich roughage with chopped straw and the specific needs of each animal are monitored closely.

A MULTIFUNCTIONAL DYNAMIC COMPANY

We also have other business activities, besides Peter's Farm, and Ineke is responsible for the catering part of the business. Toonen Hall is a venue for birthday parties, meetings and other social gatherings with friends and family and is known for its hospitality and welcoming atmosphere. The company also has a weighbridge for trucks. This weighbridge is equipped with self-service software, allowing drivers to easily weigh their trucks and enter the data via a computer. This makes the process more efficient and allows drivers to get back on the road quickly.

I put my background as a builder, plumber and electrician to good use, in further improving the stables. I have always been on the lookout for the latest innovations in housing and technology. Much has been invested in sustainable solutions in recent years. For instance, we have a fully automatic emergency power supply, so feed can always be provided via the drinking machines, and solar panels will soon be installed to make us self-sufficient in terms of energy. Air scrubbers are also likely to be installed at some stables. We also have a highly professional hygiene locker including two luxury showers. Our company attracts a wide range of visitors every year. Many people are quite surprised to see how today's calves are kept in an animal-friendly way. 

• Teus & Ineke Toonen
• Located in Lunteren, Gelderland
• 2 children, 2 grandchildren
• Peter's Farm Rosé Beter Leven (Better Life) veal farmer since 2023
• Hobbies: Ineke enjoys cooking and looking after the grandchildren. Teus enjoys riding motorbike