Humans of Agriculture

James Wagstaff reflects on his 20-year career with The Weekly Times, one of the most consumed print news publications among ag folks. It can feel like print is in flux thanks to the shift to digital platforms and indie social media content creators. However, with a focus on quality over quantity, James shares the big stories that have shaped the agricultural space, his life as a journalist, and the readers who keep coming back for more.In this episode, Oli sits down with James Wagstaff, the editor of The Weekly Times. They have a chat about James's experience covering big Aussie agriculture stories and discuss highlights from 2024's news scene. There has been some big news this year; Land ownership shake-ups, sustainability pushes, economic uncertainty, supermarket supply chain turmoil, and heartfelt stories of legacy and challenge. Finally, what does a year ahead look like with so many moving parts hitting the newswire?In this episode, you’ll hear about:James Wagstaff looks back on his 20-year career with The Weekly Times.Hindsight on big Australian news stories such as 'Who owns Australia.'How print media is adapting to the digital age.Impacts of sustainability initiatives on agricultural families and operations.How infrastructure, Donald Trump's election, and trade with China may affect the Australian Agricultural landscape.Advice for the next generation interested in agriculture and journalism.

Uncertainty of reaching the finish line is always on the mind of an ultra-marathon runner like Michael Crowley. But by pushing through, you can make the unbelievable possible. Such is the story for Australian agriculture and the long future ahead of it.In this episode, Oli sits down with Michael Crowley who recently took up the top job with Meat and Livestock Australia. They dive into Michael's history with AG, the time he ran 100 km for mental health, and his dream of passing on a sense of stewardship to the next generation. He's a big-picture guy. As Managing Director, he is privy to talks around tech in Australian farming, trade relationships, and developing sustainable practices for the future.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Michael Crowley discusses his history working in Europe with Meat and Livestock Australia, becoming the CEO of Herefords Australia, before returning to Meat and Livestock Australia.Michael shares his passion for running and raising funds for the 'How's Your Mate?' charity in a 100 km marathon.Michael discusses the opportunities and challenges facing the future of Australian ag to meet sustainability efforts and the complex trade landscape.He provides valuable insight for those operating in the agriculture sector and those just starting.Picture Credit: Meat and Livestock Australia

Welcome to part 2 of our mini-series, which we partnered with Legacy Livestock to create.Many unforeseen factors can shake up things on the farm. Drought, disease, or uncertain family farm succession are just a few in the mix. So how can folks and ag take a long-term view to prepare for those moments, or pull themselves out of it through the assistance of financing?In episode 2, Oli sits down with Richard Brimblecombe, Legacy Livestock's CEO, to explore the role of financing solutions in supporting Australian farmers. Richard shares insights into the agricultural finance landscape, the unique challenges Australian farmers boldly face, and how Legacy Livestock empowers resilience and continuity in farming operations.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Richard shares insights from his career and role as CEO of Legacy Livestock.Discussion on navigating issues like drought, disease, and family loss that impact Australian farmers.How financing can serve as a lifeline for farmers in difficult times.The Legacy Livestock’s approach in supporting farmers for their future goals regardless of circumstance.Exploring sustainable strategies and innovations for Australian farming’s future.Get in Touch with Legacy Livestock:To learn more about how Legacy Livestock can support your farming aspirations, visit their website at legacylivestock.com.au or call them directly at 1300 965 683. Their team of experts is ready to assist you in unlocking the full potential of your agricultural business.

We're back with a three-part series that we have partnered with Legacy Livestock to bring to life.Many folks in agriculture have spoken with us about the challenges and rewards of building their dream life. We can empathize with wanting to build a legacy. In this episode Oli shares that dream. He asks how do you bring that dream into reality.In episode 1 we get to know Richard Brimblecombe, CEO of Legacy Livestock. He shares his journey from growing up on a mixed farming property in Queensland to his career in agricultural finance and ultimately being a co-founder of Legacy Livestock. Richard’s passion for agriculture and his insights into the evolving landscape of farm financing are invaluable, especially for those navigating the challenges of starting or growing a farming operation. We dive into his background, career, and the unique perspective he brings to livestock finance.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Richard’s upbringing and lifelong connection to agriculture.The challenges and opportunities in Australian farming today.Chatting about Oli's hypothetical sheep and wool farm.How Legacy Livestock helps producers maximize the potential of their paddocks.Practical advice for farmers looking to grow their businesses.Get in Touch with Legacy Livestock:To learn more about how Legacy Livestock can support your farming aspirations, visit their website at legacylivestock.com.au or call them directly at 1300 965 683. Their team of experts is ready to assist you in unlocking the full potential of your agricultural business.

We're sitting down with Jo Palmer, co-founder of The Connection Table. After returning to her rural roots in The Rock, New South Wales, following a stint in Singapore, Jo reflects on her journey and her latest endeavour with co-founder Julia Spicer. The Connection Table is a professional network aiming to elevate rural Australians into decision-making roles across government, industry, and community.Jo shares her insights on the barriers rural Australians face in securing leadership positions and the innovative solutions The Connection Table is offering. From professional development opportunities to fostering networks and advocating for greater rural representation, this initiative is set to transform how rural voices are heard at leadership tables.Episode Highlights:The Connection Table's Purpose: A digital platform designed to centralise and connect rural talent with leadership and decision-making opportunities.The Rural Leadership Gap: Despite significant investment in rural leadership development, the transition to actual leadership roles remains limited. The Connection Table aims to bridge this gap.Jo’s Reflection on Starting Again: Lessons learned from her first startup, Pointer Remote, and how launching The Connection Table has been a more deliberate and collaborative process.Breaking Down Silos: The need for a broader representation of rural Australia beyond agriculture, including mining, environment, and migrant communities.Support for Emerging Leaders: Offering training, governance skills, and network-building resources to empower individuals at all stages of their leadership journey.Unique Features of The Connection Table: Monthly Lunch with Friends networking sessions, board and panel opportunity feeds, and a focus on underrepresented voices in regional Australia.

Mid this year we were at the Aussie Cotton Conference and it sparked a curiousity into who the big players are, where are they going and what impact is that having for Australian cotton growers.I grabbed Paul Joules from Rabobank to discuss the current state of the cotton market and farm inputs. Paul shares insights from his experience in global agricultural commodities, particularly focusing on cotton production, demand dynamics, and the impact of global events on prices. The conversation also delves into the volatility of farm inputs, especially fertilisers, and the importance of staying informed as a farmer in a rapidly changing landscape.

In this conversation, Sabrina Davies shares her journey of living on Kangaroo Island, the impact of the Black Summer bushfires, and her initiative, Humans of Kangaroo Island, which aims to tell the stories of the local community. She discusses the challenges of rebuilding after losing her home, the importance of community support, and her reflections on loss and recovery. Sabrina emphasises the beauty of Kangaroo Island and the unique lifestyle it offers, while also providing insights into her personal growth and the lessons learned through adversity.Pic Credit: Australian Rural Leadership FoundationKangaroo Island, community, bushfires, storytelling, resilience, recovery, nature, Humans of Kangaroo Island, personal journey, support

This episode was recorded on the 9th of October and that might add a bit of context to the conversation!Tom & Mick are back to sit down with Scott Bremner from McCulloch Agencies to chat all things Livestock.TakeawaysScotty Bremner has a long history in the livestock industry.Feedlot procurement is about turnover and continuity of supply.Mobile phones have changed accessibility in agency life.Market trends are influenced by weather and supply.Lamb and mutton markets are currently stable and sustainable.Cattle market dynamics are affected by female slaughter rates.Trading strategies should focus on doing the opposite of the majority.The future of feedlotting requires more processing facilities.Wool market predictions are uncertain but influenced by global economies.Heifers are a good investment due to quick turnover.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Scotty Bremner03:06 Scotty's Career Journey in Livestock05:56 Insights on Feedlot Procurement08:49 Market Trends and Seasonal Insights12:12 Lamb and Mutton Market Analysis15:00 Cattle Market Dynamics17:51 Trading Strategies and Market Sentiment21:05 Future of Feedlotting and Processing Facilities23:55 Wool Market Overview and Predictions

In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Richie Kirkland shares his love of popping off on the buggies, hunting rabbits, and enjoying the life afforded as a farm boy in South Australia. His father showed him how to shear and he quickly realized how wool spun into a nice chunk of change for his teen years. Life in the business has had its highs and lows and he’s realized the importance of a forward mindset in the industry. By focusing on sustainability, innovations, and engaging with the community, Richie believes storytelling and sharing thoughtful perspectives will lead to a more resilient wool sector.Takeaways:Understanding the shifts over the decades in the shearing business shows pivotal moments of what direction the industry has taken.Sustainability and Environmental Practices are important to ensure long-term productivity and environmental health.Technology and innovation in modern farming will help to meet industry demands and address challenges.Community, collaboration, and storytelling foster resilience within agricultural communities.Resilience and adaptation during tough seasons are essential for navigating the agriculture sector.Support and training for agricultural workers and those new to the industry is crucial in the future of the industry.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future.Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills.You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

In this episode of the Humans of Agriculture podcast, host Oli Le Lievre explores the multifaceted operations of a South Australian farm with Alex McGorman. The conversation delves into the history of the farm, the evolution of farming practices, the importance of relationships in agriculture, and the role of family boards and external support in business growth. Alex shares insights on transitioning from a traditional farming mindset to a more business-oriented approach, emphasizing the significance of consistency, adaptability, and good people in achieving success in the agricultural industry.Takeaways:The importance of relationships in agriculture cannot be overstated.Consistency in operations leads to long-term success.Transitioning to a business mindset is crucial for growth.Family boards can provide valuable external support.Good people are the backbone of any successful operation.Adaptability is key in the face of changing market conditions.Farming is a trust-based industry that relies on integrity.External advice can help navigate complex business challenges.Investing in branding and marketing is essential for growth.There are numerous opportunities in agriculture for those willing to innovate.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future.Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills.You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

Jenny Stanton wears multiple hats as a farmer, agronomist, netball coach, and community leader on Kangaroo Island (KI). She shares her story of resilience, having survived the devastating 2020 bushfires, which wiped out livestock and infrastructure, and how her family rebuilt both their farm and their lives. Jenny discusses the journey of running a family farm, including succession planning and the balancing act of managing daily operations, community roles, and personal well-being.We dive into topics such as:How her family navigated succession planning after the fires.The importance of community and their "Fat Farmers" initiative to improve physical and mental health.Jenny's passion for soil health, sustainable farming practices, and the challenges of finding natural solutions to pest problems.The role of Farm Owners Academy and the Australian Rural Leadership Program in shaping their business and personal growth.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future.Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills.You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

Chris Schied has been a business advisor for more than the last 25 years. Across his career he's learnt a few things about what it takes for family business and farming businesses to succeed.A few things we chat about:- Family boards are essential in agriculture for effective strategy, governance, risk management, and succession planning.- Family boards should meet at least twice a year, with an annual general meeting to review past performance and plan for the future.- Non-returning family members and external advisors should be involved in family board meetings.- Emotion should not be removed from decision-making in family businesses, as it plays a role in succession planning and understanding the purpose of the business.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future.Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills.You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

This week we're heading to a tiny little town called Tilba on the South Coast of NSW. An old mining town, the small mainstreet pops under an enormous mountain.For generations Tilba Dairy has been providing jobs, amazing dairy products and played a key part of the social fabric that makes this town what it is.So, what's the value of branded businesses to small communities like Tilba? That's exactly why we caught up with Erica Dibden co-owner of Tilba Dairy.Paid Partnership Transparency:Humans of Agriculture have been fortunate enough to engage in a paid agreement powered by the NSW Government, Dairy NSW, and Dairy Australia to gain first-hand insight into the Australian Dairy Industry and share it with our audiences and more broadly. This six-part series includes video, podcasts, photography and written content and is made possible by the Australian and NSW Government’s Storm and Flood Industry Recovery Program.

Kate Gunn, is a clinical psychologist and founder of iFarmWell, in this episode she discusses the importance of mental health and wellbeing in the agriculture industry. She shares her journey of researching farmers' mental health and the need for support in rural communities. Kate explains how iFarmWell was created to provide accessible and farmer-focused resources for improving mental health. She emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health in the workplace and the benefits of having a team with good wellbeing. Kate also provides tips for seeking help and supporting others in rural communities.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future.Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills.You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

Darren Thomas is the CEO of Thomas Foods International and in this episode we chat about his journey, the family business, and how they've not just made the most of opportunities they've overcome huge adversity.  From growing into new international markets, supporting local communities, the business is proud of its heritage and excited for the future.TakeawaysBeing present and connected with employees and customers is crucial for success in the agricultural industry.South Australia offers unique advantages for businesses, such as access to owners and CEOs and affordability.Strategic acquisitions and expansion into processing have been key factors in the growth of Thomas Foods International.Teamwork, continuous learning, and a clear vision are essential for achieving success in the industry. The major fire at the TFI meat processing plant in Murray Bridge was a significant challenge, but there were no injuries or loss of life.The rebuilding process was a huge undertaking, but TFI was able to mitigate losses and quickly get back to production.TFI has diversified its business into seafood, cooked meats, and pet food, allowing for the extraction of maximum value from the carcass.Sustainability and innovation are important focus areas for TFI, including investments in environmental awareness, cyber security, and financial reporting.A sustainable price for farmers is crucial for the long-term viability of the agricultural industry.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises.Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future. Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills. You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

Sarah Crosthwaite is a a rural mental health clinician from Northeast Victoria, and she has worked as a rural outreach counsellor to farmers across our region. The rest of the time she works with her husband and their team on our 550-cow dairy farm in the Kiewa Valley.Sarah Crosthwaite discusses her journey in addressing mental health issues within farming communities. She shares insights from her experiences as a rural outreach counselor, the challenges faced by farmers, and the importance of mental health support. The discussion covers her educational background, the impact of natural disasters on mental health, and the establishment of her counselling service, Open Road Counselling. Sarah emphasises the need for better access to mental health services and the importance of normalising conversations around mental health in agriculture.She's recently off the stage after presenting her Nuffield Scholarship in Tasmania, where she led with the question, ‘What can be learnt from international farming communities to improve and strengthen positive mental health outcomes for Australian primary producers?She has since set up her own business, Open Road Counselling, is a counselling service for farmers, their families, farm workers and anyone working with in the agricultural industry right across Australia. To find out more check out their website!Nuffield episode sponsor:A message from this episode sponsor, ANZ Agribusiness:Farming in Australia is never without opportunity, nor challenge. From season to season, and from day to day, producers manage a myriad of risks and rewards as they produce the vast range of commodities global markets now demand. At ANZ Agribusiness, we’ve been supporting farmers to take opportunities and manage through challenges for over 150 years. We’re a proud and long term partner of Nuffield Australia, supporting its goal of capacity building for producers, their businesses, industry and rural community. Our network of regionally based Agribusiness bankers are ready to support both our existing customers, and any farming business seeking a review of their banking arrangements at any time. Find your local ANZ Branch manager today.

Daniel Kahl, a cotton farmer from Narrabri, Australia, discusses his involvement in the cotton industry and his recent appointment to the board of Cotton Australia. He talks about the resurgence of young people in the town and the collaborative nature of the industry. Daniel also addresses misconceptions and myths surrounding cotton farming, highlighting the industry's progress in reducing pesticide use and water consumption.What we chat about:The cotton industry in Narrabri has seen a resurgence of young people returning to the town due to the ag opportunities and the close proximity to agricultural universities.The cotton industry is known for its collaborative nature, with growers working together to drive the industry forward and overcome challenges.The industry has made significant progress in reducing pesticide use and water consumption, with cotton now requiring 97% less pesticides and 40-50% less water to grow a bale.The family business is structured with different divisions, each managed by one of the three brothers. They have implemented school-based apprenticeships and gap years to provide development opportunities for their staff.His Nuffield scholarship topic focused on the people side of agriculture, reflecting his passion for the industry and the importance of building strong relationships and supporting the next generation. Having diverse perspectives in agriculture, such as a non-agricultural background, can lead to a more robust understanding of the industry.Building personal skills and finding ways to connect with people who have different perspectives is crucial for personal development.Creating pathways for the next generation in agriculture requires a balance between tertiary and vocational education.Implementing learnings from other countries can help improve the structure and development of farm managers in Australia.Programs like Ag Career Start play a vital role in providing opportunities and support for young people entering the agriculture industry.Nuffield episode sponsor:A message from this episode sponsor, ANZ Agribusiness:Farming in Australia is never without opportunity, nor challenge. From season to season, and from day to day, producers manage a myriad of risks and rewards as they produce the vast range of commodities global markets now demand. At ANZ Agribusiness, we’ve been supporting farmers to take opportunities and manage through challenges for over 150 years. We’re a proud and long term partner of Nuffield Australia, supporting its goal of capacity building for producers, their businesses, industry and rural community. Our network of regionally based Agribusiness bankers are ready to support both our existing customers, and any farming business seeking a review of their banking arrangements at any time. Find your local ANZ Agribusiness manager now.What we cover:Australian cotton industry, Narrabri, young people, collaboration, misconceptions, myths, pesticide reduction, water consumption, family business, team, Nuffield scholarship, agriculture, pathways, next generation, education, vocational, tertiary, farm managers, business structure, personal development

In this episode, Stefan Vogel, the General Manager of Rabo Research for Australia and New Zealand, shares insights into his extensive career in agriculture and the role of RaboResearch in the agricultural sector. He discusses the importance of understanding the food supply chain, the characteristics of effective team members, and the global insights that impact local agriculture. Stefan also highlights exciting research opportunities, particularly in sustainable aviation fuels, and the interconnectedness of various agricultural sectors.

In the heart of Dubbo, NSW, a remarkable story unfolds at The Little Big Dairy Co, where Emma Elliott and her father, Steve Chesworth, are not just dairy farmers, but they regard themselves as environmentalists. Their journey showcasing the importance of embracing new and sustainable practices in the dairy industry to benefit both the environment and the bottom line. We discuss:The importance of preserving the dairy industry and encouraging the next generation to be involved.The balance between profitability and sustainability in the dairy industry.The need for education and transparency to build trust with consumers.The implementation of sustainable practices, such as solar panels and water recycling, on the farm.Future plans for the business, including the production of butter and housing cows in climate-controlled barns.Paid Partnership Transparency:Humans of Agriculture have been fortunate enough to engage in a paid agreement powered by the NSW Government, Dairy NSW, and Dairy Australia to gain first-hand insight into the Australian Dairy Industry and share it with our audiences and more broadly. This six-part series includes video, podcasts, photography and written content and is made possible by the Australian and NSW Government’s Storm and Flood Industry Recovery Program.

Our Quarterly update with the team from LAWD is back and we've got Danny Thomas in the hot seat to chat all things property.We exploreThe different tiers of the rural property marketthe impact of interest rates on family farms versus institutional investorsInternational flow of money and new entrantsthe future of agricultural land pricesThe importance of strategic planning for the next generation of farmers. We cover new entrants into agriculture, the challenges faced by aspiring land owners and the roles of government and regulation in the market. Chapters00:58 Understanding the Australian Rural Property Market Tiers06:13 Market Dynamics and Trends10:11 Future of Agricultural Land Prices12:09 Advice for the Next Generation of Farmers14:07 New Entrants and Investment in Agriculture16:05 Challenges with New Agricultural Investments19:01 Government's Role in Agricultural Market Regulation19:59 Current Market Activity and Future Outlook