Episodes

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

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  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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 show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

  • 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.


    This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.