Generation Ag

L: Thea Walker is a fourth-generation farmer from Manjimup, WA, where her family grows avocados, passionfruit, truffles, and raises livestock. With a Bachelor of Agribusiness from Curtin and experience on a Kimberley cattle station, she now works as a horticultural consultant with Planfarm. In 2023, she received the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant for her project addressing avocado food waste. Recently named the 2024 WA Rural Ambassador, Thea is passionate about advocating for sustainable practices and the future of Australian agriculture.

In this episode, cohost Kayla (IG: @kaylajaydee_), with nearly a decade of experience in agricultural workforce management, shares essential tips for farmers looking to improve their approach to managing on-farm employees. From better workforce planning and navigating employment fundamentals to mastering employee performance management and boosting retention, Kayla provides practical advice that helps build a more efficient, effective, and satisfied team. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed in managing your most valuable asset: your people.

Mia Ryan is the founder and creative force behind Howdy (IG: @howdy.global), a unique dating app designed to bridge the gap for those seeking genuine connections in rural Australia. At just 22, Mia launched Howdy to address the unique challenges of dating in the bush, where small-town dynamics and limited dating pools can make it tough to find a meaningful relationship. Raised on a farm herself, Mia understands firsthand the demands of agricultural life and the desire to connect with someone who truly understands rural values and lifestyle. Mia’s journey began with her own frustrations with mainstream dating apps, which often focus on quantity over quality, catering poorly to rural communities. Driven to create a solution, she developed Howdy, an app that prioritises genuine connection and community. With thoughtful features like ‘I am a farmer’ and ‘I’m looking for a farmer’ options and a small subscription fee, Howdy has already built a reputation for attracting sincere users committed to real relationships. Since its launch, Howdy has grown rapidly, especially among women, and is already fostering long-distance romances across the country—including Mia’s own budding relationship with a farmer from Western Australia. Through Howdy, Mia is reshaping the rural dating experience, giving Australians in agriculture a place to connect and build lasting relationships on their terms.

Erin Lukey (IG: @erinlukey) is a passionate agriculture analyst. After being introduced to the industry through her Sydney high school, Erin decided to study further, choosing to complete a Bachelor of Agriculture through the University of New England. After this, Erin moved into a Rural Affairs policy position, working alongside producers and government to advocate for policy positions ranging from AgVet chemical regulation, biosecurity and animal welfare, to telecommunications, innovation and technology.  After three years with the NFF, Erin was craving a change, so moved to northern Australia for a year as a ringer. Here, she was introduced to an extremely practical side of the industry, working within an extensive program, mustering and processing tens of thousands of cattle.  Currently she is the Senior Market Information Analyst at Meat & Livestock Australia, focusing on red meat market dynamics, providing a range of informative and educational analysis for the supply chain. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Mil and Tess are the dynamic duo behind (IG: @theprimarysource_) a podcast dedicated to shining a light on the stories and people within the agricultural industry. With backgrounds rooted in farming, both Mil and Tess bring a fresh, authentic perspective to every conversation, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of life on the land. Their passion for connecting with rural communities and sharing the realities of agriculture makes The Primary Source an essential listen for those interested in farming, sustainability, and the future of food production. Tess on Linkedin | Mil on Linkedin Book Recommendation from Tess

Kane Gerrets (L: @Kane Gerrets) is the Agricultural Youth Initiatives Manager for the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW.  Within this role he organises, The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman State Final, RAS Rural Achiever Award, RAS Young Judges Competitions, RAS NSW Young Farmer Challenge State Final, RAS Youth Group events and all RAS AgriLink initiatives.  Kane is dedicated to promoting agricultural opportunities across rural, regional, and remote NSW, traveling extensively across the state to engage with young people and support their growth in the industry.  Growing up on the NSW Central Coast, Kane moved to Bega for a year after school where his passion for rural Australia and the people within it was fully cemented.  Kane is extremely passionate about networking with people from all walks of life to link others with the best possible opportunities.  Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Ben McKenzie, (L: @ben-mckenzie) Manager of New Enterprises at AgriFutures Australia. Ben’s role is to explore new revenue streams for agricultural industries, with a focus on environmental markets, renewables, waste management, by-product commercialisation, biofuels, and farm diversification. His goal? To help build resilient and profitable agricultural sectors across Australia. Before joining AgriFutures, Ben managed nine farms across Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia, where he implemented carbon and biodiversity projects to restore marginal land and generate additional income. He then transitioned into private carbon consulting, helping farmers understand their emissions baseline and navigate the complex carbon market. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Charlie Thurgate (IG: @charlie21thurgate) is a 23-year-old farmer from Tamworth, NSW, who manages Kamilaroi Cattle Company (IG: @kamilaroicattlecompany), a direct-to-consumer and wholesale cattle operation. Having worked across various farming operations since the age of 16, Thurgate has developed a comprehensive skillset and approach to agriculture. At Kamilaroi Cattle Company, Charlie is dedicated to producing beef that benefits the environment. The company operates under a natural farming system that incorporates ultra high-density grazing, multispecies cropping, and compost extract to regenerate the landscape. Cattle are moved 3-4 times a day, ensuring that over 90% of available forage is utilised. The company employs a natural approach to breeding composite cattle, selecting breeds that are well-suited to the Australian climate while consistently producing high-quality beef. Charlie likes prioritises the health of their livestock by avoiding blanket pharmaceutical treatments. Instead, they use natural ingredients and products to maintain optimal health, resorting to pharmaceuticals only as a last option. The final chapter of Kamilaroi Cattle Company's story is selling their beef directly to consumers and through butchers. Thurgate aims to ensure that customers are well-informed about the origins of their beef, the methods used to raise the animals, and the environmental impact of their choices. Ultimately, he wants customers to have confidence that they are consuming nutrient-dense, high-quality beef. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

After completing a Bachelor of Business (Agribusiness) from Marcus Oldham College, Oscar McLean (L: @Oscar-McLean) worked for a major financial institution in the Southern NSW region with exposure to the management of an extensive portfolio of Agribusiness clients, providing ongoing relationship management and tailored solutions to primary producers and Ag supply chain businesses. Oscar has a strong understanding of family-run farming operations and commercial pre and post-farm gate businesses and is passionate about assisting client's businesses to grow while minimising the risk of financial hardship through appropriate debt structuring. With a focus and interest in assisting clients in navigating the current finance industry and ensuring the intergenerational financial success of farming families by providing a holistic understanding of their business needs both now and for future generations. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Michael Williams (IG: @fat.farmers) has a rich and diverse background that has led him to his current role as General Manager of Fat Farmers.  His journey started with childhood experiences on a family farm near  Adelaide, which instilled in him a deep connection to farming  communities. His career path has been varied, including hotels, real estate  sales, logistics at Qantas, and successfully founding a national PropTech  startup, which was acquired in 2022.  After briefly retiring in the Limestone Coast region, Michael found himself  drawn to volunteer work with Fat Farmers, distributing thousands of  calendars to local communities. His involvement grew, leading to his role  as Project Officer and now General Manager as of 2024. For Michael, Fat  Farmers is more than just a job; it's a passion project close to his heart,  allowing him to give back to communities that he cares deeply about.  Michael's fondest experiences involve witnessing the connections and  support fostered within Fat farmers groups, reflecting the genuine  appreciation from farmers and their partners. Now based in Adelaide, he  is enthusiastic about expanding Fat Farmers' reach to more towns across  Australia. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Dr Nicole McDonald (IG: @nic_agcareers) is a bit of a late bloomer, coming into the ag industry in her mid-30’s in 2014 to put her background in psychology to use by studying a PhD in Cotton Farm Workers’ Experiences of Job Satisfaction. Since that time she has developed her skills as a researcher to work on a number of workforce challenges including employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and the future of work. Most recently she has led the grower-practitioner-researcher co-design project, The SHIFT Project, which has taken a grounded approach to support people develop on-farm non-technical skills. Australian agriculture’s core values of curiosity and continuous improvement are what keeps Nic motivated to find ways to use her research to improve the social and human sustainability of the industry. Her efforts have been recognized in her most recent nomination for the 2024 CSD Cotton Industry Researcher of the Year award. She currently works in the CQUniversity Institute for Future Farming Systems as a member of the Agricultural Education and Extension research cluster and she is a member of the Career Development Association of Australia. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Jack Moyses( IG: @jack.moyses) is a passionate young farmer and content creator, known for his role in the Broad Acre Bros, a popular farming content group on TikTok. His journey into videography began with a school assignment, leading to a unique cinematic style that captures the beauty of farm life. Jack balances his farming responsibilities with content creation, finding a therapeutic element in the process. He is also involved in AgconnectWA and the Keep the Sheep event, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in agriculture. Looking ahead, Jack is eager to explore different farming methods and continue influencing younger generations through his work. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Jess Armstrong (IG: @jess_armstong434) was raised on a family-owned sheep and cattle station in Far-Western New South Wales, stretching across the saltbush plains. As a School of the Air student, Jess spent time writing out spelling tests on wool bales during shearing and counting lamb tails at lamb marking. This experience is a familiar narrative for many who grew up in the bush—attending boarding school and yearning to return to the farm. Agriculture is deeply embedded in Jess's identity, and she couldn't envision being anywhere else. Her career has spanned various sectors including Landcare, Hospitality, Rural Merchandise, and Tech-Services in the Northern Territory, New South Wales, and Victoria. In her current role as Community Engagement Officer at Holbrook Landcare Network, Jess works on projects that extend research, resources, and tools to enhance farm management practices. Her efforts focus on improving drought and climate resilience, enhancing productivity, and increasing profitability for farmers. Outside of work, Jess is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Agricultural Science while eagerly seizing every opportunity to hit the gravel out on the farm. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Marion Lewis L: @marion-lewis is the Assistant Project Coordinator at The Livestock Collective, where she promotes ethical and transparent practices in the Australian livestock industry. Originally from Corrigin, Western Australia, Marion’s deep agricultural roots were nurtured through her studies at the Muresk Institute and Cunderdin Agricultural College. In her role, Marion coordinates projects that highlight the importance of sustainability and ethical treatment in livestock farming. Her commitment to honest communication and education helps bridge the gap between the industry and the public. Outside of work, Marion remains connected to her agricultural roots, often participating in community events and spending time on her family farm. Her dedication to agriculture is reflected in her impactful work and deep-seated passion for the industry.

Grace Griffiths (IG: @101agpathways) is an agronomist and grower at DATA AG, a family business based in Goondiwindi, and also runs her own venture, 101 Ag Pathways. She founded 101 Ag Pathways in 2021, after finishing university and wanting to discover more of the diverse opportunities within the agriculture industry. The platform, available on Instagram and Facebook, highlights various career paths in agriculture and features a job board. Grace is deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of her family's irrigated cotton property, handling everything from planting and picking to irrigating. In her role as an agronomist, she not only supports and builds relationships with clients but also actively contributes to their operations. Grace was also a recent Future Cotton Leader, and graduated from the program at the 2024 Cotton Conference. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Kaitie Nash (IG: @kaitie_nash) is the vibrant personality behind @countryincommon, has been influencing her way to becoming a farmer since moving from the city to a farm near Coonabarabran in NSW’s Central West. With a wicked sense of humour and quick wit, Kaitie brings joy and laughter to her followers while documenting the ups and downs of farm life. Originally from Perth, she moved to her husband Will’s family farm in 2018 with their two young boys. Despite facing challenges like drought, a mouse plague, and isolation, Kaitie has embraced farm life with an open mind and willingness to learn, sharing her journey with over 21,000 Instagram followers. Kaitie’s social media journey began in November 2023 as a fun experiment to lift a friend’s spirits. Her genuine and humorous approach to documenting the realities of farming quickly resonated with many. She is not afraid to ask “silly” questions and highlights the complexities and hard work involved in agriculture. Through her posts, including learning about sheep farming and attending the State Sheep Show in Dubbo, she provides fresh perspectives on farming, making the industry more accessible and relatable. With millions of views across her videos, Kaitie continues to inspire and entertain her followers, turning everyday farm experiences into engaging and educational content. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Isabella Thrupp is the co-founder of Prinking in Pindan (IG: @prinking.in.pindan), a unique denim brand inspired by the rugged beauty of the Kimberleys in Australia. With a background deeply rooted in the station lifestyle, Bella sought to create a side project that combined her passion for fashion and her practical needs on the station, which her partner manages.  The idea for Prinking in Pindan emerged from a simple necessity: durable, comfortable, and stylish jeans suited for long days on the land. After months of designing, sampling, and refining, Bella launched the brand's first product, 'The Relaxed Pindans,' which sold out in just 15 minutes, highlighting the demand for their thoughtfully crafted denim.   The journey wasn't easy; each step involved meticulous attention to fit, style, and quality, with every sample shipped from the US. However, the overwhelming response to their initial launch spurred her on to expand the line, including the upcoming 'The Original Pindans' and a men's collection. Through Prinking in Pindan, Bella continues to blend the essence of the Kimberleys with a touch of style, embodying a unique lifestyle brand that resonates with their community and beyond. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Pia Piggott (L: pia-piggott)is an analyst at RaboResearch focusing in horticulture, viticulture and sugar markets. Based in Sydney, Australia Pia’s role includes public speaking at events, recording RaboResearch podcasts and publishing reports, generating widespread media coverage that resonates beyond the agriculture industry. Pia enjoys collaborating with global colleagues to provide insights and views for agribusiness clients. Prior to joining Rabobank, Pia worked as a research assistant at Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre and associate at Purposeful. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science with First Class Honours from the University of Western Australia. During this time Pia also completed an exchange program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

A little bit of a different episode this week. We know a lot of you are in your early agricultural careers and struggle to know the where-to and the how-to of what's next. For some, trying to forge a career in ag when you're not from a farm can be a big challenge. Having worked in the agricultural pathways space for about 8 years, our very own Kayla Evans (IG: @kaylajaydee_) has some insights to share. From how to enhance your personal brand, to practical tips on getting some real experience, this episode might help you unlock your first, or next, ag career move. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au

Tom Baulch, 20, along with his family, is running Jaclinton Poll Herefords (IG: @jaclinton_poll_Herefords). Tom, following in his late father Clinton's footsteps, secured a $96,000 Hereford sire, Yavenvale Trump Card T350, at the Yavenvale Herefords sale. An apprentice boilermaker, Tom's passion for cattle breeding is evident in his careful genetic selection and dedication to their stud herd of 100 registered cows at Illowa. Since Clinton's sudden passing in 2022, Tom, his mother Jacquie, and sister Indianna have maintained the stud's operations and upheld the Jaclinton beef brand.  Tom plans to revive the brand and market high-quality beef, while also preparing for the Herefords Australia National Show and Sale at Wodonga. He balances his apprenticeship with farm work and remains committed to his father's breeding philosophy and legacy. Don't forget to send us an email if you know of a story that we should tell at hello@generationag.com.au *Become a Patreon Partner* - https://patreon.com/generationag Find us here: Instagram: @generation.ag Twitter: @generation_ag Website: www.generationag.com.au