In the latest episode of Hay Matters, brought to you by LocalAg and Feed Central, we welcome back a familiar voice. Graham (Thommo) Thomson joins Steve Page live from the 2025 AFIA Conference to reflect on one of the toughest seasons he’s seen in more than five decades. With his hard-earned perspective, Thommo shares how he kept going through record-low rainfall, what he saw on the road north, and why he’s still not ready to retire.

• Thommo shares that this past year brought the lowest rainfall he’s recorded in 52 years of daily measurements on his farm, and how a patch of leased river country helped him scrape through
• He talks about the daily challenge of feeding stock when there’s nothing in the paddock — and how sheep were chasing anything that looked like a bale
• A long drive to the Gold Coast revealed just how bare things are, with empty sheds and only small loads of hay moving south
• Despite the tough conditions, livestock prices stayed strong, giving some much-needed breathing room
• Thommo shares why he keeps showing up to the AFIA Conference, and what’s changed (and stayed the same) in the industry
• He’s not retiring yet — with a capable apprentice at home, he’s keen to learn more about tech and continue mentoring the next generation

And before we go… Jon Paul shares a quick update: he’ll be handing over the hosting reins to Steve and Alex, as he focuses on some exciting new projects with Feed Central. He’ll still pop in from time to time — and he’s looking forward to sharing what’s next.