We’re doing something slightly different to round out 2024 on Beyond the Farm Gate! In this episode, Zali introduces Matt and Helen as they all discuss how their experiences brought them to host the podcast. They share why ag matters to them, the lessons Matt has learnt by running a farm with his wife, how Helen and Zali both embraced lives in different countries, and they answer the all-important question: when you’re on the farm, what brand of workboots do you wear?   Resources and links: Agriculture Outlook report for 2025   Send us your story: Do you know someone (or are you someone) who’d make a great potential guest on a future episode of Beyond the Farm Gate? Drop us a line at beyondthefarmgate@bendigobank.com.au.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube   In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.  

Quentin and Renee Mooney are the husband and wife duo behind Mt Mooney Simmentals in Culburra, South Australia. Mt Mooney Simmentals is a family-owned and operated cattle stud focused on producing tough, healthy cattle. In this episode, Quentin and Renee explain why they breed Simmentals and where they think the breed is headed. They also share their journey of buying their farm, how they supported themselves through the early years of the stud, and why prospective farmers should follow their dreams even if they aren't from a farming family.   Resources and links: Mt Mooney Simmentals website Mt Mooney Simmentals on Facebook   Send us your story: Do you know someone (or are you someone) who’d make a great potential guest on a future episode of Beyond the Farm Gate? Drop us a line at beyondthefarmgate@bendigobank.com.au.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube   In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.  

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Mark Wootton. In the last episode, Mark shared his journey with carbon-neutral farming and why he became an early adopter in Australia. In this episode, Mark explains the role of vegetation in carbon sequestration and the challenges involved in trying to achieve net-zero targets. He emphasises ongoing efforts towards methane and carbon reduction, acknowledges the progress towards 2030 targets, and shares practical tips for long-term tree planting, managing carbon footprints, and why staying carbon neutral is an ongoing process and not a one-time change. Resources and links: Jigsaw Farms website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Mark Wootton is the Owner-Operator of Jigsaw Farms with his wife, Eve. Jigsaw Farms is a carbon-neutral sheep, cattle, and agroforestry farm near Hamilton. In this episode, Mark explains how integrating sustainable practices such as agroforestry and biodiversity in 2010 has transformed Jigsaw Farms. He also discusses the challenges of maintaining carbon neutrality, understanding the carbon market, and the future of sustainable agriculture. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Mark. Join us for the next episode, where Mark shares more lessons he learnt on the carbon-neutral journey. Resources and links: Jigsaw Farms website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

John Blore is a Grazier on Belmont Station at Silverton near Broken Hill. Belmont Station is a fully operational sheep and goat farm that regularly hosts some of the biggest celebrities in Aussie music including Missy Higgins, Birds of Tokyo, The Angels, Kasey Chambers, and more. In this episode, John shares how he balances his farming operation with hosting the massive Mundi Mundi Music Festival, which drew 14,000 attendees this year alone. He also explains how diversifying his farm brought Hollywood knocking as a filming location for the latest Mad Max film. Resources and links: Mundi Mundi Music Festival website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Brent Finlay. In the last episode, Brent shared how one conversation sparked a decade-long leadership journey. He opened up about the importance of advocating for farmers domestically and internationally and what he learned from the experience. In this episode, Brent shares how he got involved with RELA, an organisation committed to generating renewable energy. He explains how he helps farmers negotiate the best deal if renewable energy firms and mining companies come knocking to establish projects on the farm. Resources and links: RELA website Brent Finlay on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Brent Finlay is an Agricultural Advocate and Farmer from Southeast Queensland. Throughout his career, Brent has served as President of AgForce in Queensland, President of the National Farmers’ Federation, and on the board of the World Farm Organisation in Rome. In this episode, Brent discusses his journey from his farm to becoming a leader in the agricultural space. He shares a few of his achievements and what he learned as the head of AgForce and the National Farmers’ Federation. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Brent. Join us for the next episode, where Brent shares how he became involved with RELA and the work he does to help farmers negotiate when approached by the energy sector. Resources and links: Brent Finlay on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Amanda Moohen is the COO of Condabri Beef and the Founder of Women of Lot Feeding (WOLF). Condabri Beef is a family-owned and operated integrated beef enterprise between Miles and Condamine. Women Of Lot Feeding is a group of passionate women in feedlotting who aim to provide support and networking opportunities for those in the field. In this episode, Amanda shares where her passion for beef started and the discoveries she made by navigating a largely male-dominated industry. She opens up about founding WOLF and the importance of mentorship, support, and working together in agriculture and feedlotting. Resources and links: Condabri Beef on Facebook Women Of Feed Lotting (WOLF) on Facebook Amanda Moohen on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Tim McClelland is a Farmer from Birchip in North West Victoria. Together with his wife Julie, they operate their farm using a unique blend of family council and management board. In this episode, Tim opens up about their approach to succession and how it led to their current management structure. He also shares how his experience as a researcher influenced his approach to farming and the benefits they've seen on the farm from adopting new farming methods and technologies. Resources and links: Tim McClelland on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Mat Goddard is the Founder and CEO of Aquacultr. Aquacultr aims to shake up the seafood production industry by bringing its operation inland to create land-based aquaculture systems. In this episode, Mat talks about how identifying a disconnect in food systems was the genesis for Aquacultr and how their land-based aquaculture systems can bring about real environmental change while benefiting producers. He also discusses how Aquacultr plans to develop more sustainable large-scale aquaculture in the global community. Resources and links: Aquacultr website Mat Goddard on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Sally Bethune is the co-owner of Bethune Lane Dairy with her husband Paul at Lake Boga in Northwest Victoria. Bethune Lane Dairy is a large-scale dairy farm with on-farm milk and cheese processing.  In this episode, Sally discusses how Bethune Lane Dairy has changed, from the lessons learnt during the Millennium Drought to expanding into on-farm milk and cheese production in 2020. She shares how they navigated the challenges of changing their operation and why new projects are important to them. Resources and links: Bethune Lane Dairy website Bethune Lane Dairy on Facebook Bethune Lane Dairy on Instagram Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Nusqe Spanton is the CEO and Founder of Provectus Algae. Provectus Algae aims to reduce the environmental impact of livestock farming by providing an algae-based supplement to reduce methane production from cows. In this episode, Nusqe explains the development of their asparagopsis-based supplement and how to incorporate it into farming operations. He also talks about the history and future of Provectus Algae as it develops products to reduce emissions in other industries. Resources and links: Provectus Algae website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.

Anne Bennett is the Marketing Communications Manager of Ashgrove Cheese in northern Tasmania. Ashgrove Cheese is a vertically integrated dairy farm owned and operated by the Bennett family for over a hundred years. With more farmers embracing sustainable production than ever, the Bennetts have announced their next step forward in reducing their carbon footprint: eco-milk. Eco-milk is fresh milk produced with lower carbon emissions. In this episode, Anne discusses the evolution of Ashgrove and why businesses must be willing to adapt to an ever-changing world. She digs into why Tasmania is the perfect environment for Ashgrove, how it reduced its carbon emissions through experimentation, and the future of eco-friendly dairy. Resources and links: Ashgrove Cheese website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Mandy Dee is a Farmer with Clydevale Holsteins in Northwest Victoria. Clydevale Holsteins is a multi-generational family-owned and operated Holstein dairy stud. In this episode, Mandy outlines the history of Clydevale Holsteins and opens up about how they’re embracing new technologies going into the future. She digs into how they decided to upgrade their farm to include a housed farming system and robotic milkers and how this has influenced productivity and, more importantly, the health of the herd. Resources and links: Clydevale Holsteins on Facebook Clydevale Holsteins robotic compost barn on YouTube Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Kelly Pearce is the Director of the Western Australia Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC). WAARC focused on solving tomorrow’s problems today by undertaking research, development, and extension projects catering to the unique landscape of Western Australia. In this episode, Kelly shares her career highlights after 30 years in the farming research space. She explains the mission of  WAARC, and how they intend to improve outcomes for farmers in WA. She also discusses the importance of collaboration and cultivating new talent in the agricultural research sector. Resources and links: Western Australia Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC) website Western Australia Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC) on LinkedIn Kelly Pearce on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Mary O’Brien is the Founder and CEO of Are You Bogged Mate? Are You Bogged Mate? is an organisation committed to spreading mental health awareness in the bush with a focus on helping rural men experiencing depression. In this episode, Mary tells the story behind Are You Bogged Mate? She discusses the work the organisation is undertaking in rural communities, their upcoming programs and plans for the future, and she highlights the importance of pouring your heart out and letting people in. If you need mental health support, please visit your local hospital emergency department or contact the following support services: Lifeline: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 Resources and links: Are You Bogged Mate website Apply for the next ‘Bogged Brakes’ session here Mary O’Brien on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Kim Kiss is the Owner of Grassland Poultry in Central NSW. Together with her husband Bryan, they operate a free-range poultry farm using regenerative farming practices. In this episode, Kim discusses why they chose a path of sustainable, regenerative farming practices and how that has impacted their operation. She also emphasises the importance of animal welfare and how focusing on creating a healthy environment. She explains how everything, from the soil to the treatment of the animals, leads to tastier chickens. Resources and links: Grassland Poultry website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Sheena Carter is a Development Officer at NSW DPI focusing on Dairy Farm Business Management. Claire Waterman is a Program Manager in the Farm Business Economics branch of Agriculture Victoria. Sheena and Claire have a wealth of ag industry experience and have worked within the dairy industry for over a decade. They recently released a collaborative study about the economics of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) feeding systems for dairy farmers. In this episode, Sheena and Claire explain the key findings from their study and what they mean for dairy farmers who want to introduce TMR feeding systems into their operations. They also discuss their predictions for the Australian dairy industry. Resources and links: Dairy Australia report ‘Turning Motivational Drivers Into Profit - Total Mixed Ration’ Dairy Australia website NSW DPI website Agriculture Victoria website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

John Clohesy is a fourth-generation farmer with a broadacre cropping and livestock operation near Sea Lake in Victoria. He is also the Chair of the Royal Hotel Co-op. In this episode, John explains how his farming operation has changed over the years and how evolving technology has influenced his business. He also opens up about the circumstances that led the Sea Lake community to become joint owners in several business ventures in town, including a hardware store and the local pub. He highlights how they've kept the businesses running, the tourists coming, and the young people in town. Resources and links: Royal Hotel website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Guy Webb is the Global Agronomic Lead at Loam Bio. Loam Bio is undertaking significant agricultural, microbial, and climate science research and development to improve farms by removing excess carbon from the atmosphere and returning it to agricultural soil, resulting in healthier, more productive farms while fighting climate change. In this episode, Guy reveals the evolution of Loam Bio and how their products can improve farming systems. He also opens up about the future of Loam Bio and his predictions for the carbon industry in Australian agriculture. Resources and links: Loam Bio website Guy Webb on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Nathan Free is the President of the Victorian Farmers Federation Horticulture Council and co-manages a leading organic produce and stone fruit farm with his family in Lake Boga, in Northwest Victoria. His journey from a humble roadside stall to a Nuffield Scholar and a key figure in the VFF is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Nathan delves into his agricultural journey, his dedication to sustainable organic farming practices, and his advocacy for the industry he holds dear. He also shares the pivotal lessons that have shaped his path. Join us as we uncover the insights and experiences that have driven Nathan’s success in agriculture. Resources and links: Victorian Farmers Federation website Nathan Free on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Hugh Dawson. In the last episode, we heard how Hugh ended up as the Head Stockman for one of the Northern Territory’s largest cattle stations and the industry groups and not-for-profit organisations he got involved with while he was there. In this episode, Hugh tells the story of how he decided to leave the NT to study at Marcus Oldham College, his experiences with Brokenwood Wines after graduation, and his vision for the future of agriculture. He also shares the conversations he wishes he’d heard about ag growing up. Resources and links: Zanda McDonald Award website Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association website Young Livestock Exporters Network website Brokenwood Wines website Hugh Dawson on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Hugh Dawson is a young agriculturalist whose love of the industry has taken him all over Australia. Hugh grew up on his family’s farm in South Australia, but after high school, he found himself as the Head Stockman on a 2.6 million acre station in the Northern Territory. In this episode, Hugh shares his journey to the Northern Territory, the lessons he learnt as a leader, and why he’s so passionate about groups like the Young Livestock Exporters Network. He also opens up about his involvement with Sober in the Country and why he believes we should reframe our attitude around alcohol in rural Australia. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Hugh. Join us for the next episode, where Hugh shares his vision for the future of agriculture. Resources and links: Young Livestock Exporters Network website Sober in the Country website Hugh Dawson on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Pip Grant is the CEO of Riverine Plains Inc. Riverine Plains Inc. specialises in farmer-driven research and extension to benefit broadacre farmers in Victoria and New South Wales. Throughout her career, Pip has been on the cutting edge of agritech innovation and has committed her life to programs and technology to improve outcomes for farmers and rural communities. In this episode, Pip digs into Australian agritech, where the industry is currently and where it can go in the future, and how the research done by Riverine Plains Inc. is helping farmers. She’ll also reflect on how her thoughts on Australian agriculture have changed throughout her career and the available opportunities. Resources and links: Riverine Plains Inc. website Pip Grant on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

The Hon David Littleproud MP is the Leader of The National Party, Member for Maranoa, and Federal Shadow Minister for Agriculture. David has represented Queensland’s Maranoa region since 2016 and held many positions in the Federal Parliament. However, his connection to ag started much earlier than that: growing up on the family farm near Chinchilla. In this episode, David opens up about his approach to leadership and standing his ground during negotiations. He also takes us back to his childhood growing up on a farm and shares how his first job as a cotton chipper influenced his enduring passion for agriculture and rural communities. Resources and links: The Honourable David Littleproud MP on the Parliament of Australia website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Fiona Best is the CEO of Birchip Cropping Group. Birchip Cropping Group, or BCG, is a Victorian not-for-profit agricultural research group run by and for farmers and is dedicated to increasing prosperity for all farmers through scientific research and innovative strategies. In this episode, Fiona shares how her growing up on a farm influenced her career choices, how her journey to the boardroom included a long detour into the classroom educating the next generation of farmers, and the many lessons she’s learnt from a lifetime in ag. She’ll also reveal her hopes for the future of Australian agriculture and how the grain industry is benefitting from research right now. Resources and links: Birchip Cropping Group Fiona Best on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Florance McGufficke is the Elders NSW Livestock and Stud Stock Sales Support Officer in Dubbo. In 2023, Florance was recognised as an ambassador for women in rural NSW when she was named the Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman of the Year which was previously known as Sydney Royal Showgirl. In this episode, Florance speaks about the opportunities life in agriculture has given her and shares her advice for other young people who are unsure about their next step. She also opens up about becoming a role model for women in agriculture and why it's so important to her to encourage the next generation of women. Resources and links: Greendale Merinos 3 Little Sheep on Instagram Florance McGufficke on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Michael Robertson is the Director of CSIRO Agriculture and Food. The CSIRO is an iconic Australian scientific organisation that has had agricultural research as a cornerstone of its work for almost a century. In this episode, Michael will break down the tangible effects that past agricultural research has had on Australian farmers as well as the research the CSIRO is currently undertaking. He’ll also share how digital agriculture can help to improve yields and may also lead to a reduction in injuries on the farm in the future. Resources and links: CSIRO website Michael Robertson on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Bianca Tarrant is the CEO of Our Cow. Following extreme bushfires in 2019, Bianca and her partner Dave created Our Cow which is an online subscription service providing Australian meat directly from the farmer to the customer. In this episode, Bianca will open up about the issues that she and many other Australian farmers struggle with, the genesis of Our Cow, and where she hopes the business goes in the future. Bianca will also describe how social media played a part in creating a multimillion-dollar e-commerce business. Resources and links: Our Cow Bianca Tarrant on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Jack Jordan-Hill is a Product Specialist for CLAAS LEXION harvesters in Australia. Jack has travelled the world because of ag, from delivering product presentations in Europe to harvesting grain in the United States. But his love of ag started at home, in Victoria, as a child on his family farm. In this episode, Jack shares the opportunities afforded to him by a career in agriculture and why he loves it. He also opens up about a devastating and life-changing loss, and how it has shaped him into the man he is today. Mental health support: If you need mental health support, please visit your local hospital emergency department or contact the following support services: Lifeline: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 Resources and links: Jack Jordan-Hill on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Dr Anthony Young is a Senior Lecturer in Crop Protection at the University of Queensland. For over 20 years, Anthony has been researching how to detect and prevent diseases affecting agriculture. He is also passionate about creating beneficial microbial communities for improved soil health and better agricultural outcomes for farmers. In this episode, Anthony explains how current ag research is benefiting farmers, how remote sensing is being used to combat pests and diseases in the field, and why farmers should look at the biological makeup of their soil in addition to the chemical composition. Resources and links: Anthony Young on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Tim Rethus is a farmer in Horsham, Victoria. Before pursuing his passion for ag as a dryland broadacre cropping farmer, Tim was a chemical engineer. Today, he uses the lessons he learned in chemical engineering on his farm to innovate and push the envelope. In this episode, Tim shares his early connection to ag before heading off to university and pursuing a career as a chemical engineer. He’ll elaborate on how he found his way back to agriculture, how working for a multinational fuel company has influenced how he farms today, and why innovation is so important for the future of farming. Resources and links: Tim Rethus on LinkedIn Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

It's been a while, and Annie is back with some exciting announcements from the world of Rural Bank podcasts. Firstly, 'Beyond the Farm Gate' is making a comeback! So keep an eye out for some fresh new episodes coming soon. Annie will be passing along the torch to some new voices who'll be continuing to shine a light on great ag stories from across the country. Plus, we've just launched a brand new show from the Rural Bank Insights Team called 'Unpacking Ag'! It's all about providing the information you need to run a successful ag business. In each episode, your hosts Michael and Sean will break down the latest insights from across the industry to help you make confident decisions on your farm. So, as a teaser, here's episode 1 of 'Unpacking Ag', where we dive into the latest insights from the ag export sector. Listen to the show: Listen to 'Unpacking Ag' on Apple Podcasts Listen to 'Unpacking Ag' on Google Podcasts Listen to 'Unpacking Ag' on Spotify Listen to 'Unpacking Ag' on the website Resources and links: Trade publications | Rural Bank Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube Any opinions, estimates, and projections in this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.

Original publish date: Tue 09 Nov 2021. Oli Le Lievre is the Founder of Humans of Agriculture, a modern media company that aims to strengthen the connection between the food and fibre system, as well as the broader community, by making agriculture more relatable. In this episode, Oli shares his journey, from growing up in Sydney, to jackarooing, before completing his studies at Marcus Oldham College. He shares his interest in the future of rural and regional Australia, and how Humans of Agriculture is on a mission to share 10,000 stories of people that represent the diverse and vast opportunities in agriculture. Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Original publish date: Tue 10 May 2022. Catherine Velisha is a third-generation farmer with a passion for business and creating opportunities. Her first-hand experience on the farm shapes her newest venture, the Velisha Education Group (VEG), as she works to promote pathways into horticulture, and safety on the farm. In this episode, Catherine shares the story of how her family started in horticulture, and how the farm ended up in her capable hands. Plus, an insight into the entrepreneurial side of the vegetable industry, and how that mindset alongside a positive run-in with WorkSafe, led her to start VEG. Resources and links: VEG Education website Velisha Farms website Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Original publish date: Tue 12 Oct 2021. Growing up on a farm, Andi White has always had agriculture in her blood. And while Andi and her husband Hayden have been living and working on the same farm in NSW’s Tocumwal for the past 16 years, they’ve always dreamed of owning their own farm. That opportunity came in 2020 when the property they’d been managing for the past 10 years went up for sale — and Andi and Hayden knew they had to hustle. While they had built up a solid deposit through share farming and purchasing weiner calves to later sell as steers, they were struggling to secure the funding they needed via traditional sources … which is where Cultivate Farms stepped in. Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Original publish date: Tue 06 Jul 2021. Shanna Whan is the CEO of Sober in the Country, a national advocacy program for social change in the bush. In this episode, Shanna shares her (very) personal journey, from growing up in her local rural scene to her battle with alcohol — which led her to start 'Sober in the Country'. She’s determined to spread the message that ‘It’s ok to say no to a beer’ throughout Australia’s rural communities. Shanna has worked as a rural journalist, a jillaroo, and a photographer, which gives her a unique perspective on Australian agricultural communities. Mental health support: If you need mental health support, please visit your local hospital emergency department or contact the following support services: Lifeline: 13 11 14 ​Family Drug Support: 1300 368 186 Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 MensLine: 1300 789 978 Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 Resources and links: Sober in the Country SITC Bush Tribe Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Original publish date: Tue 16 Mar 2021. James Walker is a fifth-generation farmer from Longreach in Queensland. In between farming James is an accomplished entrepreneur with a focus on improving profitability in the livestock industry. In this episode, you'll hear how innovation has future-proofed James' family farm, how he's diversified his income stream through AgriTourism and AgTech, and how he's creating farming efficiencies that are bringing positive change to the Northern cattle industry and beyond. Resources and links: View more information about the Bose sunglasses here: https://www.farmertec.io/ Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Original publish date: Tue 16 Feb 2021. Agriculture, why wouldn't you want to be a part of it? So says today's guest, Tom Murphy of Kulin in Western Australia. As you listen to Tom speak, it’s easy to tell that he truly loves farming. And his passion for farming runs deep. It's a passion that's led him on a journey across the Nullarbor and back, working for some of the biggest names in Australian agriculture. In this episode, you'll hear Tom speak about his unwavering commitment to community, how saying yes to opportunities has taken him on the ultimate ag-adventure, and how his experience with succession has enabled him to embrace farming without a farm. Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Kate Nicolson runs Croftdown, a property in Bathurst, where she runs miniature donkeys, highland cows, and Angus beef cattle; with a particular passion for her donkeys. Kate grew up in a traditional farming background, surrounded by sheep, horses, and cattle, which she left to pursue a career in bushfire science, before ultimately being pulled back to rural life. In today's episode, Kate details her passion for donkeys and other unusual animals, and how she's found a way of supporting her local community by running tailored therapy programs with the donkeys for the disabled and elderly. Kate explains how her work helps to provide a support service for those in need, and the humble donkey is helping to bring positivity and uniqueness to the ag industry. Resources and links: Croftdown on Instagram Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Dr Rachel Carey is a Researcher and Lecturer at the University of Melbourne, with expertise in all things food systems. Whilst working as a cook on a remote cattle station in Queensland, UK-local Rachel realised how good the food culture was, and how it was tied directly to how much food was grown near the city. As a result, she's since conducted research on the governance of sustainable food systems, and now leads the Foodprint Melbourne Project, which aims to improve the resilience of Melbourne's food system. In today's episode, we hear all about the importance of Melbourne's food-bowl, and what we can do to build a more resilient food system. Plus, some amazing examples of what other countries around the world are doing, and what we can learn from them.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Greg Kuchel is the Regional Manager of Agribusiness with Rural Bank for both the Wimmera and Mallee regions. Greg also sits on the board of the Birchip Cropping Group — a key industry body for growers in the region. Despite growing up in South Australia, Greg has become well and truly entrenched in Victoria's Wimmera farming community, and he's passionate about not only farming but also supporting young talent emerging in the industry.  In today's episode, Greg shares his connection to agriculture, and how he ended up in the Wimmera region. He also talks about his involvement with the Birchip Cropping Group, and discusses the performance of Wimmera farmland prices. Plus, you'll hear how Greg's journey with Rural Bank has come full circle, from starting as a graduate to now mentoring the next generation.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Kate McBride is a fifth-generation farmer from New South Wales and the youngest member to sit on the Western Local Land Services board. Kate uses her agriculture experience to advocate for drought and water management and the importance of understanding the role that climate change plays in these areas. Her advocacy work has led her to become an Anne Kantor Fellow at the Australia Institute, where she can research the connections between water, the climate, and other rural issues. In today's episode, we hear about Kate's connection to agriculture and how her experience growing up by the Darling-Barka river led her to become the advocate she is today for drought and water management. She also talks about the importance of strengthening services and infrastructure in rural communities and how bridging the gap between city and country can encourage continued connection and resilience.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Catherine Velisha is a third-generation farmer with a passion for business and creating opportunities. Her first-hand experience on the farm shapes her newest venture, the Velisha Education Group (VEG), as she works to promote pathways into horticulture, and safety on the farm. In this episode, Catherine shares the story of how her family started in horticulture, and how the farm ended up in her capable hands. Plus, an insight into the entrepreneurial side of the vegetable industry, and how that mindset alongside a positive run-in with WorkSafe, led her to start VEG.   Resources and links: VEG Education website Velisha Farms website   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Kirsten Diprose is a communications specialist and content creator. Along with her husband and two boys, Kirsten lives on a mixed grazing and cropping farm in southwest Victoria, where their latest adventure is incorporating dairy into their farming business. In this episode, Kirsten shares how her experience in farming, combined with her expertise in broadcasting, resulted in co-founding the Ducks on the Pond podcast alongside Jackie Elliot. She also shares how her passion for telling the stories of rural people began, and why the ag industry needs to do a better job of showcasing its diversity.   Resources and links: Ducks on the Pond podcast   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Original publish date: 30 Mar 2021. Neil Seaman is a fifth-generation wool grower on his family's 2,000-acre property, Rosemont, located near Crookwell in NSW. Alongside his father, Neil runs 4,000 Merino ewes, producing fine micron wool. In this episode, you'll hear how proud and optimistic Neil is about the future of Australia's wool industry, why he believes rural Australia is the place to live, and how his time on the reality TV show, Farmer Wants a Wife, has given him a platform to help close the gap between city and country.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Jock Lawrence is an entrepreneur and founder of Mobble (or Chief Mobbler!), a digital app that allows farmers to track and manage their livestock. Mobble is a simple, easy to use platform that enables farmers to take charge of their own farm management. In this episode, Jock’s shares how he was inspired to come up with Mobble upon returning to the family farm. He also takes us through his personal farming journey so far, and walks through his mission: to make farmers' lives easier through technology.   Resources and links: https://www.mobble.io/ jock@mobble.io   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Jim Pratley is a Professor of Agriculture at Charles Sturt University (previously Wagga Wagga Ag College) and has been for almost 50 years. Over that time, he taught courses in agronomy and related areas and has published widely on the topics of conservation farming, weed management, herbicide resistance and allelopathy. He was also the Foundation Dean of Science and Agriculture at CSU from 1990 until 2006. Jim is also an advocate for the industry and uses his knowledge and experience to drive real change and inspire the next generation. In this episode, Jim speaks with us about how he led the fight for universities to continue teaching agriculture and why he believes it’s important, and why we need to continue to build the ag workforce.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Simone Kain is co-owner of creative agency Hello Friday and co-founder and author of the award-winning educational brand, George the Farmer. Simone and her husband Justin are also raising three young boys on their family property near Penola, South Australia, which specialises in beef-cattle trading and sheep for meat and wool. In this episode, Simone shares the story of how George the Farmer began in 2012 when Simone was trawling the internet looking for farming books and apps for her farm-obsessed son, George. Simone quickly discovered a hole in the market. And in 2014, George the Farmer was officially born, with the story quickly spilling outside storybooks and into new mediums…   Resources and links: George the Farmer - Website George the Farmer - YouTube George the Farmer - Spotify   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube

Claudia Kirby is an Agricultural Analyst with ProFarmer, where she works with various data sources to help farmers make decisions and inform the industry about the latest trends. In this episode, Claudia shares how she grew up in the grain industry and how it has taken her from the Western Australian Wheatbelt to Kansas in the US, over to Victoria and across the ditch to New Zealand. She also discusses how these experiences not only exposed her to different crops, such as soybeans and corn, but ignited an interest in grain futures markets, which she’s now bringing to her work in Australia.   Connect: Rural Bank website Rural Bank on Facebook Rural Bank on Twitter Rural Bank on LinkedIn Rural Bank on YouTube