The last two episodes are some trends that are happening at the moment. Some that we want and others not so much…
I spoke with Mark Fennell, a seasoned pastoralist managing dry conditions in the heart of Central Australia. Based in South Australia you can become accustomed to dealing with long dry spells. It’s not the livestock that needs to change but the mindset of the operator and how you’re about to remain upbeat in a period of duress.
I learnt about duress in high school commerce and now know how it’s applied in the farming game. Although, the best gems come from pressure being applied. If it weren’t for dry times or even the other floods we probably wouldn’t have too many coping methods up our sleeves for next time.
From water security to livestock decisions, Mark shares firsthand how he’s adapting his operation to work with the environment, not against it. If you’re facing dry spells or planning for the next one, this episode is packed with practical advice.
🎧 Tune in here: Listen on Apple Podcasts
Two weeks ago I spoke with Clare and Dave Lee from Windy Station in New South Wales. They share how they've successfully integrated agritourism into their traditional farming operations, creating authentic experiences that connect visitors with the realities of farm life. It’s amazing how they’re doing it and also it is unique how much they care for the land and opportunities when it is more of a “corporate” farm.
On that, corporate farms have been labelled the big bad brothers of family farms and that they can be too much control and brown nosing but they’re becoming a lot more common than you and I know. In today’s farming approach as a family you really need to think the same to stay in the game, you can always bring in your family values with you. I think we’d all like to get to the scale where we all can play a role and create impact however that looks.
I hope to get these back on the road for those following along at home. Keep on farming and I hope the planting season is kind to you whatever you’re planting in 2025.
Keep on farming,
Jack Cresswell
P.S. if you haven’t looked at or spoken about Succession and transitioning the farm have a conversation with those on and off the farm. I have seen and heard way too many operations go pear shaped on missed opportunities to really build something unique. If you take one thing from this email let be that.
P.S.S Let me know what’s bugging you on farm, I’d say you’re not the only one. Email [email protected]
Photo was going through VIC during harvest time near Hamilton I think. Was great to see some country down there.
