Humans of Agriculture

Matthew Evans, a food critic, chef, and farmer, discusses his journey into the world of food production and the challenges of the agriculture industry. He emphasises the importance of communication and dialogue between farmers and consumers to bridge the gap and address the polarising topics in agriculture. Evans also highlights the potential of agriculture to be both damaging and healing to the environment, and the need for sustainable and regenerative practices. He shares his experiences as a small-scale farmer and the changes he has witnessed in the food and agriculture industry. The conversation also delves into the different ways milk is produced, the challenges and benefits of traditional cow dairy farming, and the impact of milk consumption on human health and the environment. The global trend of milk consumption is discussed, as well as the rise of plant-based milk alternatives.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:56 Bridging the Gap: Communication between Farmers and Consumers08:33 The Potential of Agriculture: Healing and Sustainability15:34 The Value of Small-Scale Farming21:54 Changing Consumer Awareness in the Food Industry26:14 Finding Your Place in Agriculture28:08 The Transformative Nature of Milk37:58 The Challenges and Benefits of Traditional Cow Dairy Farming50:11 The Impact of Milk Consumption51:38 The Rise of Plant-Based Milk Alternatives53:05 Curiosity and Critical Thinking: Exploring the Complexities of Milk55:02 The Future of Milk: Sustainable Farming and Nutritional ResearchTags:Matthew Evans, food critic, chef, farmer, food production, challenges, agriculture industry, communication, dialogue, polarizing topics, sustainability, regenerative practices, small-scale farming, changes, milk, dairy, grass, photosynthesis, digestion, cow, farming, milk consumption, plant-based milk, nutrition, environment

Felicity Taylor is the Area manager at Rabobank Australia in Moree. In this conversation, she shares her journey from growing up in Moree to working in banking and the importance of being involved in the community. Felicity discusses her role as a branch manager and the satisfaction she gets from helping clients achieve their goals. For anyone familiar with Flick you know she is incredibly involved in her local community from the tourism board, to the Young Aggies group through to the Triathlon and run clubs!This episode is part of our partnership with Rabobank Australia.Other things we discuss:Living in a rural community and being involved in the community is a responsibility and a way to have a vibrant lifestyle.Banking in rural areas requires empathy, relationship-building, and communication skills.Felicity enjoys helping clients execute their dreams and supporting multi-generational farming families.Being involved in community organisations and volunteering is a way to leave a positive legacy and ensure succession.Felicity values the support and opportunities provided by Rabobank and encourages others to consider a career in banking.00:00 Introduction and Overview of Moree01:27 Felicity's Journey: From Sydney to the Netherlands and Back to Moree04:19 The Impact of Droughts and Floods on Moree05:37 Felicity's Career in Banking and the Role of an Area Manager08:02 Felicity's Background in Farming and Choosing a Career in Banking12:55 The Value of Lived Experiences in Banking14:51 The Importance of Communication and Public Speaking Skills15:20 Returning to Moree and the Role of an Area Manager17:14 Challenges and Rewards of Managing a Team in Banking18:38 A Day in the Life of an Area Manager20:35 The Satisfaction of Helping Clients Achieve Their Dreams22:57 Involvement in Young Aggies and Other Community Organizations24:25 Balancing Involvement and Leaving a Positive Legacy26:23 Advice for Those Interested in Banking and Community Involvement

Steph joined us on episode 6 of the Humans of Agriculture podcast in April 2020. It's fair to say since then, quite a few things have changed! The last time we chatted, it was all things Tas Ag Co, what was back then a new venture and business opportunity for Steph and their husband Sam. What we didn't even mention once was 'Motherland Australia' the charity and organisation Steph has created that is having an extensive impact right across Rural Australia.Steph's now a household name, the 2024 Tasmanian Australian of the Year, 2022 AgriFutures Australia Rural Women's Award National Winner, and founder and CEO of Motherland Australia. Motherland is a national charity that advocates for the emotional well-being of rural mothers in Australia and delivers services that help build resilience and improve mental health outcomes.In this episode, we catch up on what's been happening since 2020. The role of the weekly podcasting from her kitchen table in connecting her and plenty of Rural Mum's to meaningful and important conversationsThe founding and growth of Motherland AustraliaThe creation of 'Motherland Village', - an online rural Mother's group (and even finding a village of her own)Balancing work, family and personal wellbeingThe impact the various episodes and stories have had on herThe importance in vulnerability and authenticity in building a communityFuture visions for supporting rural families, including rural dads!

Back in May we had the chance to host a Next Gen conversation at the Elders tent at FarmFest. Someone in the elders team who is most definitely going places is Georgie Speedy and we wanted you to meet her. Georgie is a St George local, leaving high school she had no real idea where her future might go. Eager to stay in the area she began wroking at a metal fabrication business before the chance to join Elders popped up.In those 3 and a bit years, she has grown and developed a lot both personally and professionally. She'sJust a short 3 and a bit years on, she is now the Branch Manager, leading her team for St George and Cunnamulla. In this chat she shares a little bit about those learnings, without tertiary qualifications she's learnt on the job, surrounded herself with mentors and has some sound advice. Make "the 30 second call to double check or a 30-minute call to fix it" 

Andrew is a passionate farmer, dad, husband and community man. He’s a thinker. Progressive. Visionary. He takes people along on the ride with him. In this chat Andrew shares his story, the evolution of ‘Chilwell farms’, the family business, the change and expansion of farming in his pocket of Western Australia.In 2000, Andrew undertook a Nuffield Scholarship,“I was hungry for info and for knowledge and for self-development, like really hungry for improvement at that time”In this conversation we cover.·  The significance of portraying agriculture in a positive light.·  The unique geographical and climatic diversity of Esperance and its impact on farming.·  The historical development of land in the Esperance region and the evolution·  The evolution of Chilwell Farms from a sheep farm to a diverse operation including cropping and livestock.·  The challenges and rewards of farming in an isolated area.·  Andrew's educational background and its influence on his farming practices.This episode is part of our partnership, where we profile various Nuffield Scholars and understand their journey, careers and impact on Australian agriculture.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.Chapters00:00 Portraying Agriculture in a Positive Light03:13 Geographical Diversity and Risk Management08:04 The Business Model: Owning vs. Leasing Land11:39 The Importance of Trust and Long-Term Relationships26:29 Transitioning from Operator to Manager29:50 Managing People and Creating a Positive Work Environment30:52 Community Involvement and the Role of a Strong Local Community31:34 The Impact of the Housing Crisis on Farm Businesses36:04 The Benefits of Being Involved in Initiatives and Organizations Outside the Farm Gate48:29 The Need for Better Political Lobby in Agriculture57:39 The Significance of Good People and Effective Systems in Farm Management

Jim began his life on a farm in the irrigation area of the Riverina in NSW. His love of farming followed everything he did and would ultimately shape his career so far. After exploring farming in Thailand in his early twenties, he returned home to work on the family farm before looking further afield, eager to pursue opportunities outside the farm gate. Following his Nuffield Scholarship in 1986, Jim maintained his connection to Nuffield Australia, going on to becoming the CEO of Nuffield Australia from 2005-2016 and the CEO of Nuffield International from 2008-2016.   Key TakeawaysJim Geltch shares his experiences and passions in agriculture, from growing up on a rice farm to working in Thailand and exploring agriculture in his early 20'sHe reflects on the impact of modernisation on agriculture and the need to utilise the full potential of the human resource in farming.Jim discusses his 1986 Nuffield scholarship and the topics he studied, including vocational education, computer-based crop modeling systems, and irrigation technology.He eventually transitioned out of farming and focused on value-add opportunities in agriculture. He was the CEO of Nuffield Australia from 2005-2016 including as CEO of Nuffield International from 2008-2016.Since Jim commenced as CEO of Nuffield Australia, the organisation has undergone significant changes and growth, expanding beyond traditional farming sectors to include a diverse range of industries in agriculture and countries.Capacity building and reciprocity are key principles of the Nuffield program, with the aim of nurturing individuals who can contribute back to the agricultural community.Jim notes that promoting careers in agriculture, particularly in regional areas, is crucial for the future of the industry. He is working with Yanco Agriculture school on a Careers in Agriculture offering to support pathways for the next generation. This episode is part of our partnership, where we profile various Nuffield Scholars and understand their journey, careers and impact on Australian agriculture.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.

This special episode explores the impact of avian influenza on the egg industry in Australia. Melinda Hashimoto, CEO of Egg Farmers of Australia, provides insights into the virus, its transmission, and the measures taken to control its spread. The discussion covers the process of detecting and responding to avian influenza outbreaks on farms, the impact on farmers and the supply chain, and the role of biosecurity in preventing the spread of the virus. It also highlights the importance of consumer support and awareness in maintaining the stability of the egg industry.TakeawaysAvian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that affects birds and is spread through wild birds.The egg industry in Australia produces about 18.3 million eggs per day, with the majority coming from Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.In the event of an avian influenza outbreak, affected farms are quarantined, and the birds are destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus.Farmers can receive compensation for the loss of birds and the impact on their business, but the process of recovery can take several months.Consumers can support the egg industry by continuing to purchase and consume eggs, while also practicing good biosecurity measures if they own backyard hens.Some supply chain impacts have been felt and supermarkets and restaurant chains have taken measures to manage their supply to customers.

Community Developer. Small Business Owner. Avid Netballer. International Agriculturalist. Local community enthusiast. Sometimes a travelling groupie (for certain bands). Liz Brennan is a legend, a very, very interesting person, and someone we've been fortunate to have known over the past few years.Her life experience is so incredibly fascinating having worked across the length and breadth of Australia (with a large part in her beloved home state of Western Australia), she's worked internationally supporting farmers with increasing their productivity, access to markets with a particular focus on empowering women farmers. She's supported start-ups, served on the board of publicly listed companies, championed Women, mentored many [just stopping to draw breath], is an absolute powerhouse and, above all - makes time for a good ol' yarn and has been an incredible friend of HOA!In today's chat we cover:How Liz has sought Home through people and communitiesThe complexity of Food Security and what is required to deliver more equitable outcomes for allPassion + Cursioty can create incredible opportunities for impactful work in agriculture, leadership and community developmentFinding like-minded people and organisations to deliver meaningful and sustained changeSeeking wisdom and support from others (especially those with different perspectives)The beauty, power and incredibleness of local communities

Lucy Collins knew she wanted to be around animals since she was a child. Although she didn't grow up on a farm, she took every chance to be at the dairy across the road from her family home.Early on she decided that being a Vet, was going to be her calling."I didn't have a clear family farm pathway to follow. So seemed like a natural fit." TakeawaysCuriosity and determination are key in pursuing a career in agriculture.Mentors and supportive networks play a crucial role in shaping career paths.Practical placements and diverse experiences can provide valuable learning opportunities.Strategic choices in education can open doors to desired career pathways. The feeling of community and being part of a close-knit cohort is an important aspect of studying veterinary science.Transitioning from university to the working world as a veterinarian can be challenging but also rewarding.Continuous learning and pursuing new opportunities are essential for personal and professional growth in the field.The dairy industry offers dynamic career opportunities and is open to innovation and change.Being true to oneself and staying authentic is important when making career decisions in agriculture.Dairy cattle milk production, reproduction and nutrition are what lights Lucy up. She is highly motivated and always seeking the next challenge, so she went on to complete her Masters and then a Nuffield Scholarship in the Dairy Sector. Lucy is incredibly intelligent whilst also humble and an excellent communicator. An asset to the Dairy industry, she loves it and wouldn't change it for the world. 

We are back and we are sitting down with LAWD Senior Director, Tim McKinnon to get the latest on Australia's rural real estate market.A few summarising points:Beef Australia is more than just Beef - international interest across all of Aussie Ag came to Rockhampton in the first week of May.The market dynamics between family farms and corporate/institutional investors vary by sector and region - who's buying and competing where?Government policies, such as live export bans, can create uncertainty for investor. We discuss the potential question marks that can arise from Government implemented change.Farmland values have experienced significant growth in the past decade, and while there may be a slowdown in the short term, long-term growth is expected.Renewable energy projects and agriculture can coexist, with wind farms providing additional income for landowners