Chris Francis is a Farmer in ‘Gobothery’, southwest of Forbes. Alongside his brother and their families, Chris has been taking on grain farming, fodder growing, and short-horn cattle, following 3 generations of family history. In this episode, Chris discusses the landscape his extensive operation sits on and some key motivations for their dedication. He explains the farm’s livestock decisions, irrigation choices, fodder production, and his stance on the rise of corporate input in the farming industry.   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Katja Williams is a Farmer at Polldale, a shorthorn cattle stud north of Dubbo, alongside her husband, Ned. In addition to working on the stud, Katja also runs around as a mother, podcaster, and rural women’s advocate online as The Ultimate Farm Wife.  In this episode, Katja discusses the challenges of joining a farming family, even if you’re from a farming background yourself. She shares her experiences with assumed knowledge, balancing work and motherhood, and figuring out how to find a place in someone else’s family in someone else’s business.  Local Land Services Cropping Officer, Tim Bartimote, sat down with Katja at her busy kitchen table for this fascinating chat.    Resources and links: The Ultimate Farm Wife website The Ultimate Farm Wife podcast The Ultimate Farm Wife on Instagram The Rural Mum on Facebook Katja Williams on LinkedIn   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Nic Baker is a Farmer and Contractor, and he runs a 3,600-acre cropping, cattle, and contracting operation with his wife and parents just outside Coonabarabran. In this episode, Nic discusses how his farm’s breeding operation shifted from Angus to Wagyu and how dual-purpose cropping helps to fill the winter feed gap for his breeding stock while also improving his cash flow. He also outlines his journey from purely haymaking to incorporating silage into their fodder program and how they were able to reduce the cost of upgrading by utilising as much existing machinery as possible. Local Land Services Cropping Officer, Tim Bartimote, caught up with Nic for this chat on his property overlooking the Warrumbungles on a beautiful sunny day.   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Mitch Rubie and his father run the 1,400 mixed farming operation that forms the basis of Lachlan Merinos. Mitch describes it as a grass-growing business, with the Rubies growing irrigated fodder crops, grazing canola, cereals, and lucerne-based pastures alongside their Merino seed stock. In this episode, Mitch explains how they select the best Merinos for breeding, the importance of good breeding values and genetics, and how better benchmarking has led to better genetic decisions in their seed stock. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, sat down for this chat with Mitch at his kitchen table overlooking the Lachlan River. This episode of the Seeds for Success podcast is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.   Resources and links: Lachlan Merinos website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Tim Flynn is the Principal Solicitor at Land Law Co and also owns and runs his family’s farm, ‘Strathallyn’, north of Mudgee. ‘Strathallyn’ is a 50/50 fine wool and cattle operation that is in the process of transitioning to a straight cattle trading operation. In this episode, Tim discusses the importance of succession planning, how his legal background helped him navigate his family's succession process fairly, and the lessons he has learned through these experiences. He also discusses the challenges of an off-farm business and a working farm, the role of agritourism, and the rise of renewable energy companies pitching "alternative income streams" to farmers, with the reminder to any farmers considering a renewables proposal to seek professional advice before signing anything. Local Land Services Senior Ag Advisor, Lauren Roberts, caught up with Tim at his office in Mudgee for this chat.   Resources and links: Land Law Co website Young Farmer Business Program website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Ian Manwaring and his family run a mixed farming operation alongside his brother Doug and his family across 65,000 acres at Malleevale near Condobolin. In addition to a successful cropping enterprise, Ian and his wife have a goat breeding operation, crossbreeding rangelands and imported U.S. bloodlines.  In this episode, Ian explains the origins of their goat breeding business and how they’ve bred the Contender goat line to produce animals tough enough for the environment but with good muscling and meat. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells, caught up with Ian at home in Malleevale.   Resources and links: Contender Meat Goats on Facebook   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Stephen and Melanie Cooper run a self-replacing merino operation and winter crop on their 4,200-hectare property at Caragabal, west of Grenfell. In this episode, Stephen and Melanie discuss the strip and disc seeding system they use on their farm. They get candid about how drought and rising input costs influenced their decision to adopt the strip and disc method, and the benefits they’ve already seen in soil health and ground cover. Melanie also shares her love of working with Weddin Landcare to bring farmers together to learn from each other. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, settled in for this chat with Stephen and Melanie on-farm after some much appreciated rain.   Resources and links: Weddin Landcare website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Kim Kiss owns and operates Grassland Poultry alongside her husband Brian, just outside Wellington. Grassland Poultry is a free-range chicken farm where they breed, hatch, raise, and process the chickens completely on-farm. In this episode, Kim explains why she and Brian chose to pivot from cattle to chickens, how their free-range chicken farm runs a little differently than most, and why the Sommerlad breed is perfect for Australian conditions.   Local Land Service Mixed Farming Advisor, Claudia Hinrichsen, sat down with Kim for a cup of tea and a chat about chooks.   Resources and links: Grassland Poultry website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Camilla Herbig is a Farmer alongside her husband on their property at Collie, a Rural Mental Health Advocate with RAMHP, and the mind behind Tractor Snacks, which provides recipe inspiration for the busy farm and household.  In this episode, Camilla describes advocates for greater support services for farmers and rural areas. She also shares the inspiration for Tractor Snacks and how more nutritious food in the field helps to reduce farmer fatigue and on-farm accidents with a tasty treat.  Local Land Services Team Leader, Neroli Brennan, caught up with Camilla in the Dubbo LLS office for this chat.   Mental health support: If this episode has raised any concerns or feelings for you, please reach out to: Lifeline on 13 11 14 The Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511   Resources and links: Norco National Farmer Wellbeing Report ‘Let’s Talk About Rural Adversity’ factsheet from RAMHP RAMHP website Tractor Snacks website Tractor Snacks on Instagram   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Laura Harris is the owner of Beau River Beef, a cattle breeding operation utilising agistment properties across NSW from Griffith to Orange. Laura also works for Local Land Services as part of the Invasive Species team.  In this episode, Laura discusses the humble origins of her Santa Gertrudis x Angus crossbred herd and how she uses agistment for her breeding operation until she can purchase her own property. She explains why she thinks agistment is an underutilised resource, how to find it, how to value it, and how to plan for droughts when you don’t have your own land. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, caught up with Laura in the Forbes LLS Office for this chat.   Resources and links: Beau River Beef on Facebook   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Annie Scott. In the last episode, Annie discussed how she and her team use extensive data collection to consistently improve their Angus livestock. In this episode, Annie shares her personal journey as an Angus breeder, starting as a Youth Ambassador in the 1990s and culminating in hosting the recent World Angus Forum, where she was given an industry award for over 20 years of dedication to the Angus breed. She also dives into how to bridge the city-country divide and the importance of mentoring the younger generation. This episode of Seeds For Success is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate Smart Agriculture Program.   Resources and links: Karoo Angus website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Annie Scott is an Angus Breeder and Advocate at ‘Karoo’, a 2,300-hectare farm and Angus stud between Bathurst and Lithgow, which Annie took over from her parents in 2008, with a later partnership with her father in 2018. In this episode, Annie explains how extensive data collection combined with an improvement philosophy has allowed Karoo Angus to produce high-quality animals. She also discusses the importance of pasture management and why shifting their calving period to later in the season has contributed to their success. Local Land Service Senior Ag Advisor, Lauren Costin, sat down with Annie at ‘Karoo’ for this far-reaching chat. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Annie. This episode of Seeds For Success is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate Smart Agriculture Program.   Resources and links: Karoo Angus website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Wal White is the Feedlot Manager at ‘The Mount’, a mixed farming operation west of Forbes on the west slope of the Corridgery Range. Wal keeps himself busy managing 840ha of cropping, another 800ha of grazing country, and a 4,000-cattle feedlot at its heart.  In this episode, Wal opens up about the backgrounding process used at ‘The Mount’ for cattle entering the feedlot, what a normal day managing 4,000 head of cattle looks like, and discusses the improvements made at 'The Mount' while he's been there and why improving infrastructure is a priority for him. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, caught up with Wal after a farm visit ahead of an upcoming Lachlan PROGRAZE group workshop. This episode of Seeds For Success is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate Smart Agriculture Program. Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Terry Worthington is a Farmer at ‘Four Corners’, a 7,000-acre livestock operation near Condoblin. Terry’s business is split between trade and agistment of cattle and bare breach Merino sheep, and breeding composite cattle. In this episode, Terry opens up about how his approach to farming has become simpler over time and has reduced stress for himself and his livestock. He also discusses how his appreciation for the differences between his property and his neighbours has helped him improve the health of the soil, native pastures, and shrub systems, and how a shift in his thinking and a desire to move away from ploughing and cropping has led to the establishment of previously unseen pastures. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells, caught up with Terry on a beautiful day at ‘Four Corners’. This episode of Seeds For Success is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate Smart Agriculture Program.   Resources and links: Condobolin and Districts Landcare   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Col Clapham is a beef and sheep producer in the Ilford area of NSW. Col runs three properties with his wife and uncle across 5700 acres, using the variable elevation as part of their pest management strategies to protect their 1600 breeding ewes, 200 cows, and 400 steers. In this episode, Col discusses the challenges of managing soil that ranges from sandy to rich basalt to achieve his production goals, how he tackles managing native and improved pastures in the cooler, elevated country of his properties, and how he’s implemented technology to allow him to monitor his animals and make better decisions about when to sell. Local Land Services Senior Ag Advisor, Lauren Costin, caught up with Col on a rainy day in his woolshed.   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Isabele and Pete Roberts. In the last episode, Isabele and Pete opened up about their family’s Poll Dorset stud operation and the importance of good breeding. In this episode, Isabele and Pete highlight the importance of multispecies grazing crops for their farm and the research they have recently undertaken with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, continues his chat with Isabele and Pete at their home in Cudal. Resources and links: Mixed species annual fodder crops research from NSW DPI Isabele and Pete feature story from NSW DPI Ridgehaven Poll Dorsets website Ridgehaven Poll Dorsets on Facebook   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Isabele and Pete Roberts are the husband and wife duo behind Ridgehaven Poll Dorset stud in Cudal. With three properties across Cudal and Forbes, Isabele and Pete work with their family to produce high-quality sheep.  In this episode, Isabele and Pete explain how they run their complex business, the importance of breeding rams with good eating qualities, how they achieve fast-growing lambs that meet market specifications, and the truth for producers looking for the “silver bullet” in their sheep enterprises. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, sat down with Isabele and Pete for this far-reaching chat. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Isabele and Pete.   Resources and links: Ridgehaven Poll Dorsets website Ridgehaven Poll Dorsets on Facebook   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Grace Hadley is the Business Manager at Burrawang West, an 11,000-acre mixed farming operation owned by AAM Investment Group between Condobolin and Parkes. Grace spends her days mostly focused on the Burrawang Dorper and White Dorper Stud programs. In this episode, Grace explains the strategies used at Burrawang to train Dorpers with quiet temperaments, how focusing on breeding rams chosen for conformation and fertility results in lambs of a mid-maturity growth type, and how an eight-month joining schedule makes a lot more work for the stud. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, made his way to Condobolin for this chat with Grace.   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Kate Nixon is a Horticulturalist and Environmental Consultant who founded Macrocarpa Landscapes in 2024. Kate advocates for using endemic Australian plant species to create healthy, beautiful landscapes to improve farms and gardens in rural Australia. In this episode, Kate discusses how to choose the best endemic species for the farm, how they can be used tactically to reduce fire risk and manage flood areas, and how to build a gorgeous garden from native Australian plants that promote more biodiversity. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells, caught up with Kate after a great workshop at the Forbes Visitors Centre showcasing her native garden design.   Resources and links: Macrocarpa Landscapes website Macrocarpa Landscapes on Instagram Sustainable Farms website PlantNET website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Sam Johnston is a Farmer who works alongside his dad to manage their family properties near Forbes. The Johnston's primary focus is on trade lambs and lucerne hay production however, they have recently moved into breeding composite meat sheep too. In this episode, Sam discusses how high-performance pastures of perennial grasses, lucerne, clover, and chicory helped his farm to trade over 3,000 lambs on approximately 150 hectares of river country. He also explains how their hay production sometimes conflicts with lamb production and the effect it can have on cash flow.   Resources and links: Johnston Rural Group website Top Fodder silage workshop by Central West LLS   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Jacob Stein is a Farmer and Winemaker at Robert Stein Winery in Mudgee. For three generations, Jacob’s family has farmed their 600-acre property and expanded their operation to include a vineyard, winery, restaurant, and mixed farming enterprise. In this episode, Jacob shares how regenerative farming techniques boosted soil carbon levels from 1% to 8%, discusses their paddock-to-plate approach, and reveals how innovative farming methods like natural sunscreen on grape vines have contributed to multiple prestigious wine awards.   Resources and links: Robert Stein Winery website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Jon Wright. In the last episode, Jon shared his journey to create the highly regarded Blue-E line of cattle and how it became the most feed-efficient herd in the world. In this episode, Jon dives into the importance of EBVs and how farms can use this information to develop more effective beef production systems. He also discusses how his collaboration with ag tech developers and researchers from the University of Sydney will aid farmers in reducing on-farm emissions. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Officer, Claudia Hinrichsen, continues her chat with Jon on the farm “Coota Park".   Resources and links: “Coota Park” website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.  

Jon Wright runs a 700-head cattle and breeding operation at his property, "Coota Park", on the edge of the Lachlan Valley. Jon developed a high-efficiency composite cattle line, Blue-E, almost 30 years ago using a Shorthorn Angus cross and refining the line over time. In this episode, Jon walks through his beef and cattle journey and how working on a research station in his early career influences how he operates his farm. He digs into how he developed the Blue-E line and how monitoring individual animal feed intake and production efficiency has led to his line being considered the most feed-efficient herd in the world. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Officer, Claudia Hinrichsen, caught up with Jon at “Coota Park" to learn more about his Blue-E cattle. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Jon.   Resources and links: “Coota Park” website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.  

Richard and Bernie Sharpe are the husband and wife team behind “Winton Park”, a SheepMaster stud they run on their farm, “Coraki”, along the banks of the Bogan River northwest of Parkes. In addition to the stud, they also have a commercial shedding sheep flock with a bit of cropping to complement their sheep enterprise. In this episode, Richard and Bernie discuss how SheepMasters are different from other breeds of sheep and their benefits for different farming setups. As newcomers to the Parkes region, they also share their experience buying rural property in various areas and their advice for anyone looking to buy. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, chatted with Richard and Bernie at the Forbes office.   Resources and links: Winton Park Sheepmasters website Winton Park Sheepmasters on SBA website   Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Sam Mason is a Farmer at “Spicers Run”, a 4,500-hectare mixed-farming operation near Wellington. Sam, his brother Joe, and their families use a 10-year cropping rotation schedule to help them make the most of their land. In this episode, Sam shares how his cropping rotation works and the benefits of dual-purpose cropping for providing high-quality winter feed for livestock while leaving plenty to harvest at the end of the season. He also shares how his intense production strategy helps to offset rising input costs. Local Land Services Cropping Ag Advisor, Tim Bartimote, sat down with Sam out the back of the LLS ag shed among the dual-purpose hay samples. Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Paul Jameson runs a livestock operation on his farm, “Pine Knoll Park”, near Geurie and is also the NSW Livestock Stud Manager for Elders. Using his experience with Elders, Paul has turned his property from a blank canvas into a thriving farm. In this episode, Paul discusses how he improved the infrastructure of his farm and why he established permanent pastures. He explains why he joined the LLS Farming Forecaster network and how real-time data helps his business. He also shares his advice as a livestock specialist for producers bringing home new animals in the post-sale season.  Local Land Services Cropping Ag Advisor, Tim Bartimote, sat down with Paul early one morning to chat in the Dubbo LLS office. Resources and links: Farming Forecaster tool on LLS website Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Joe Fleming is a fifth-generation Farmer with his family on their 10,000-hectare mixed farming operation, “Ulah”, near Walgett. Wheat and chickpeas are the primary crops at "Ulah" with some opportunistic irrigated cotton, cattle trading, and agistment when seasonal conditions allow it. Joe is also the Founder and Director of Evolve Engineering, which designs and manufactures innovative farming technology such as “crimpers” to allow farmers to manage weeds without disturbing the soil. In this episode, Joe tells the tale of creating the Bladerunner, a chevron blade barrel attachment designed for weed management and explains the benefits for pastures and cropping country. He also opens up about his family’s succession journey and reflects on how fortunate he is to be in a position where inheriting a farm is possible. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach sat down with Joe to ask what he thinks about the future of agriculture. Resources and links: Evolve Engineering website Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Emily Sinderberry is a Farmer and a Rural Bookkeeper at EJS Business Services in Condobolin. Emily is a trained accountant who specialises in helping farmers and small business owners take control of their finances, streamline their bookwork, and reach their financial goals. In this episode, Emily shares helpful tips for anyone looking to get on top of their books but emphasises the importance of a personalised approach to financial management. She explains why business owners need a holistic approach to their finances and how good bookwork can get you out of the office and back on the farm. Resources and links: EJS Business Services website Emily Sinderberry on LinkedIn Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Anthony Shepherd. In the last episode, Anthony shared the lessons he’s learnt from his years as a farmer and sheep consultant and how changing his farming processes brought his weaning rates above 130%.  In this episode, Anthony explains how he uses technology to improve his farming operation. He discusses how Smart Shepherd helps him spot multiple-bearing ewes that aren’t raising both twins and how he identifies underperforming ewes in the pursuit of a more productive flock. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach spoke with Anthony in his shearing shed to determine the difference between loving and admiring merinos. Resources and links: Sheepmatters website SmartShepherd website Sheep and Goat Individual Electronic Identification information from NSW DPI Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Anthony Shepherd is a Sheep Producer on his commercial merino enterprise, “Jaffa”, near Cootamundra. In addition to running his farm, he’s also worked as a consultant in the sheep industry for many years. In this episode, Anthony shares the knowledge he’s gained as a farmer and consultant and how that knowledge has allowed him to change his processes to bring his weaning rates above 130%. He also explains the usefulness of indexes and shares his tips for shearing every six months and the longer-term benefits for business. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach spoke with Anthony in his shearing shed on a cold Cootamundra day. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Anthony. Resources and links: Sheepmatters website SmartShepherd website Sheep and Goat Individual Electronic Identification information from NSW DPI Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Jill and Neil O’Grady are the husband and wife team behind “RedGround” near Oberon. “RedGround” is a fully functioning 60-acre commercial truffle orchard and tourist destination offering visitors the chance to participate in truffle hunts. In this episode, Jill and Neil walk through the basics of truffle farming and reveal that out of 250 varieties of truffles, there are only 4 worth eating. They also open up about the hard lessons they learnt when diversifying into hospitality and agri-tourism. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach dropped in on Jill and Neil in Bathurst for this chat. Resources and links: RedGround Australia website Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Rhett Robinson is a Farmer at “Orana” between Gulgong and Dunedoo. Together, Rhett and his father produce SAM sheep and cattle using a native pasture base on their 500-acre property. Rhett has also been a longtime part of the Local Land Services team as a Senior Biosecurity Officer specialising in pest animal management. In this episode, Rhett shares the pest animal management tips and tricks he has learnt throughout his 22-year career with LLS and on the farm with his family. He highlights the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and discusses effective strategies for controlling pests like rabbits, pigs, dogs, and foxes. Resources and links: Vertebrate pest animals information from NSW DPI Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Hamish Wald. In the last episode, Hamish discussed how fortunate he feels to be part of the sheep farming community and how his family decided to move away from exclusive wool farming and diversify with dual-purpose Dohnes Merinos, cattle, and cropping. In this episode, Hamish dives into the effects of innovations such as genomics and fertility tracking for sheep farmers and discusses the importance of community, biosecurity, and flexibility in farming. He also shares how both of his children are preparing for a life in ag and how their plans were interrupted by COVID-19. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells sat down with Hamish for this far-reaching chat. Resources and links: Tullinga Dorper Studs website Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Hamish Wald is a Farmer and Stud Owner at ‘Tullinga Dorper Studs’ outside Condobolin. For generations, Hamish’s family have farmed their property and he continues their work with his wife Penny, their two children, a studmaster, and a couple of handy backpackers.  In this episode, Hamish shares the story of multi-generational farming and how their business has changed. He explains why they changed from exclusively farming wool to dual-purpose Dohne Merinos. He also opens up about adding diversity to their farming operation by incorporating cropping and beef cattle to mitigate risk. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells sat down with Hamish for this far-reaching chat. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Hamish. Resources and links: Tullinga Dorper Studs website Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Craig Whiteley is a Farmer on his family’s 700-acre farm, "The Oaks", outside Geary. For almost a hundred years, the Whiteley family have raised sheep and experimented with crops including cherries, potatoes, and lucerne. In this episode, Craig shares how his family's long history in ag allowed them to try different crops in response to market demand. He emphasises the importance of balancing market opportunities with simplicity in farming. He discusses lessons he learnt from various crops and the challenges he overcame growing everything from potatoes to cherries and even lucerne for hay and silage. Local Land Services cropping advisor, Tim Bartimote, caught up with Craig for this chat while sitting on the lounge at “The Oaks”. Resources and links: Silage and hay information from NSW DPI ‘Factors affecting the quality & quantity of forage harvested for silage’ report from NSW DPI ‘A deeper understanding of higher yields in irrigated crops’ report from GRDC Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

It feels like just yesterday we sat down with our first farmer to talk about dryland cropping, sheep, and feedlotting but here we are 100 episodes later! In this extra special episode, Neroli sat down with Rohan, Tim, and Jas to reflect on what they learnt by making 100 episodes of Seeds for Success. They share the grains of wisdom that have stuck with them, the behind-the-scenes moments that didn't make it into the episodes, and everything that has made this journey so special. Thank you so much to all the farmers who shared their stories with us and thank YOU for listening! We can't wait for what we'll have learnt by episode 200 of Seeds for Success! Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success' Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Beck and Brad Hurley own and operate 22,000 acres on their properties, “Eremeran” and “Kalabra”, a hundred kilometres outside Condobolin. Their farm has changed a lot over the years, and they currently run a mixed cattle and sheep operation with miniature donkeys for herd protection. In this episode, Beck and Brad expand on how their operation has changed from their early days running the farm, how exclusion fencing has benefited their business, and why they love having miniature donkeys as part of their farming operation. Brad also opens up about how his side project, Good Going Out Cutlery, keeps him busy and transforms old kitchen essentials into beautiful jewellery for family and friends. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells caught up for a chat with Beck and Brad at their home with some delicious baked goodies. Resources and links: Good Going Out Cutlery on Instagram Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

John Murdoch is a Farmer and rural mental health advocate from Bombala. John runs a mixed farming operation with his wife and father focused on merinos, first cross ewes, Angus cattle, and fodder cropping. He is also an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness and support for farmers. In this episode, John provides insight into farming in the Monaro and explains one of the major projects he managed in his previous role as a Board Member and Chairperson for the Monaro Farming Systems group. He also digs into the Farming Forecaster network and how pasture prediction tools influenced his farming practices. John also shares his mental health battles resulting from the pressures of farming and disasters and how to support farmers better. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, reached out to John for this chat following your suggestions through our ‘Nominate a Mate’ campaign.  Contact Rohan Leach at Central West Local Land Services at 0417 021 795 or rohan.leach@lls.nsw.gov.au to find out more about the Farming Forecaster network. Mental health support: If this episode has raised any concerns or feelings for you, please reach out to: Lifeline on 13 11 14 The Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 Resources and links: Monaro Farming Systems website GrassGro on CSIRO website Farming Forecaster website Lifeline website Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) website Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

JB and Alison Tancred are the husband and wife duo behind ‘The Maze’ near Gulargambone and G.R.A.S.S. Merinos at Armatree. G.R.A.S.S. Merinos is a cooperative stud breeding program, and ‘The Maze’ is an 8,000-acre farming operation with 5,000 acres dedicated to a cropping program based on wheat, barley, and pulse crops with a commercial merino flock. In this episode, JB and Alison talk about the cooperative nature of G.R.A.S.S. Merinos, the challenges in meeting breeding objectives, and the importance of micron testing and fleece weighing in their breeding and commercial Merino operations. They also discuss some challenges facing Australian ag and how to get a new generation excited about farming. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, caught up with JB and Alison in their home at ‘The Maze’. Resources and links: G.R.A.S.S. Merinos website AWI Visual Sheep Scores (VSS) booklet for producers Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube

This episode is part two of our two-part chat with Harry Pye. In the last episode, Harry discussed the ag labour shortage and how his family has turned to robotics and automation for their mixed farming operation near Walgett.  In this episode, Harry sheds some light on his sheep enterprise and how labour shortages influenced their decision to switch from Merinos to Dorpers. He also discusses drought preparedness, confinement lots, feedlots, and how grain storage and drying silos have revolutionised their operation. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, sat down with his mate Harry for all the details. Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Harry Pye is the Owner of Gingie Pastoral near Walgett. Harry's 26,000-hectare property is split between arable cropping country and grazing for Dorper ewes and wagyu cattle. Due to the skilled labour shortage, Harry and his family have embraced automation and robotics in their operation. In this episode, Harry explains how SwarmFarm has changed his cropping operation and the impact he believes driverless tractors will have. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach, caught up with Harry for all the details. This episode is part one of our two-part chat with Harry. Join us for the next episode, where Harry discusses his sheep enterprise and why he chose to switch from merinos to Dorpers. Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Stan Noonan is a Crop Protection Specialist and Farmer at ‘Retford Park’, a small property along the Macquarie River near Dubbo. With the help of his family, Stan focuses on buying calves and growing them out with introduced pastures and grazing crops. In this episode, Stan explains how he achieves high growth rates by focusing on quality feed for his livestock to reach their weight targets quickly. He also breaks down how he extends the life of feed from a good season by using baled silage, the challenges involved, and the lessons he’s learnt along the way. He also dives into how he works with growers as a Crop Protection Specialist to improve their spray application and weed control on the property. Resources and links: NSW DPI - Silage and hay information GRDC - GrowNotes - Spray application manual GRDC - Spray application tips and tactics Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Sherrie Whitty, alongside her husband Luke, runs Mount Pleasant Limousins, a robust herd of 100 stud cows on a sprawling 2,000-acre property near the Jemalong Range, near Forbes. Their commitment to quality and animal welfare shines through in their operation, which stands as a beacon of excellence in the industry. In this episode, Sherrie emphasises the significance of selecting for temperament and docility in her cattle. She also explores the benefits of crossbreeding with limousin bulls. The conversation also covers Sherrie’s effective pasture management techniques, particularly her strategic approach to weed control, which plays a crucial role in optimising feed and maintaining healthy pastures. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach caught up with Sherrie to hear all about it in person. Resources and links: MLA - Guidelines for selecting the breeding system Mount Pleasant Limousins Mount Pleasant Limousins on Facebook Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Peter Grant and his wife Samantha own and operate “Nerreman”, a 530-hectare property on the Lachlan River, west of Forbes. They run a mixed farming enterprise, which includes irrigation, crops, and cattle.  In this episode, Peter shares his passion for growing different crops, especially his favourite one, sweetcorn. He also reveals how he has improved his water use efficiency and how he is dealing with the fall armyworm threat in his corn fields. You’ll also learn how Peter has adopted the use of drones on his farm to cope with the labour, skills, and time challenges.  Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach joined Peter for this conversation during a break from the sweetcorn harvest. Resources and links: Fall armyworm - GRDC Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Kylie Matthews and her husband Adrian own “Kooyong”, just off the highway between Forbes and West Wyalong. Kylie manages their cattle and chicken meat operation and keeps the wheels turning while Adrian works full-time away from the farm. In this episode, Kylie explains how they built up their farming operation to incorporate cattle and chickens, and how their massive 3-kilometre vegetation corridor project has impacted the farm. She also opens up about their new agritourism venture: The Silo House, which has been both challenging but also rewarding. Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Trent Frazer is a Producer on his family farm “Warree”, southwest of Stuart Town. Trent and his family run a predominantly sheep and cattle operation with a little bit of cropping. In this episode, Trent lets the cat out of the bag about his passion for wool and the challenges and rewards of being part of this staple industry. He reflects on how producers can use local trials to give themselves the information needed to make good decisions. Finally, he opens up about struggling to manage St John's wort on the property and how they're approaching it now. Local Land Services Cropping Officer, Tim Bartimote, caught up with Trent to chat at his farm, "Warree". Resources and links: NSW DPI’s fact sheet for St John’s wort NSW DPI’s best practice management guide for St John’s wort  Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Summer’s not quite over yet and we’re revisiting more farmers who’ve lived through drought and the lessons they’ve learnt along the way. In this episode, these farmers will explain how you can “minimise your geographic risk” to your herds by spreading them across properties, how tagging can be used to identify your highest performing breeding stock, and one option for keeping your stock fed during a drought. Seeds for Success will be back to our regularly scheduled programming in Feb 2024. Full episode links: Tess Herbert episode Georgia White episode Trent Johnstone episode Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

With another hot, dry summer on the cards for Australia, we’re continuing to look back at our early episodes to glean the best knowledge from farmers who lived through the last drought. In this episode, these farmers will emphasise the importance of flexibility on the farm and adapting their business practices during a drought. They’ll also share the vital lessons they learned from the mistakes they made along the way. Seeds for Success will be back to our regularly scheduled programming in Feb 2024. Full episode links: Gabriel Passmore episode Tallah Looten episode Jack Brennan episode Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

We’re doing something a little bit different this summer! With another hot, dry outlook for Australia in 2024, we’re revisiting some of our early podcast episodes to hear how farmers fared through the last drought. In this episode, these farmers are opening up about how they managed their properties through the drought and the lessons they learned along the way. From destocking, alternative herd management, and modifications to feeding and housing, to the importance of mental health and focusing on family. One couple will even share their surprising response when the drought broke. Seeds for Success will be back to our regularly scheduled programming in Feb 2024. Full episode links: James Morse episode Kieran McHugh episode Elliot Shannon episode Jarrod and Emma Amery episode Andrew and Meegan Young episode Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.

Nicole Samodol is the owner of Rowlee Wines near Orange. Rowlee Wines is a boutique winery with a huge variety of wines made using grapes from their vineyard and locally sourced additional grapes. In this episode, Nicole shares how “smoke taint” from bushfires in 2018 led to the diversification and restructuring of her family’s vineyard. She explains how a strong business plan was vital for achieving their goals which included the addition of on-site wine production, a cellar, and an agritourism strategy. She also spoke about what makes a good wine and how to pick one for yourself. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach caught up with Nicole at the Rowlee Wines cellars.  Nominate a Mate: If you would like to nominate a mate or yourself, send your suggestion to rohan.leach@lls.nsw.gov.au as well as the guest location and a bit of background info on their farming business. Resources and links: Rowlee Wines website Nicole Samadol on LinkedIn Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation.