thomas was a good farmer, an early adopter of improved farming techniques; he was one of the first to employ seed drills and manure drills, and paid attention to scientific breeding of his cattle. the only time he exhibited in the adelaide show he won first prize for his durham bull. he was also keen on thoroughbred racing, but though he employed a jockey and trainer, his only real successes were in country meetings. he was a longtime member of the royal agricultural and horticultural society of south australia and for many years a committee member. he was a fine judge of horses and cattle and was employed in that capacity in most of the shows throughout south australia until 1898, when at 76 years of age he resigned from all his commitments.