Boots Off Log On!™

Episode 70: SkyKelpie and the rise of drone mustering in Australia

Join us as we sit down with Luke Chaplain, founder of SkyKelpie, Nuffield Scholar, and drone mustering pioneer, to unpack how off-the-shelf tech is transforming the way we manage livestock in Australia.
With roots on a family property in northwest Queensland and a background in stockmanship, Luke brings a practical, ground-up perspective to one of ag’s most exciting frontiers. Since launching SkyKelpie, he’s worked with producers across the country to integrate drone technology into their day-to-day operations, all without losing the art of good stock handling.
We explore the economics of replacing a helicopter with a drone and the role of drones as tools for stockmanship. We also talk about how gamified training is helping a new generation of workers learn to handle livestock with skill and care.
Plus, Luke opens up about his filmmaking side hustle and how one of his first scripts involves a bank heist and a family secret.

Episode 69: Farm in your pocket - Rethinking AG investment

In this episode, we sit down with Nathan MacPhee, a former financial services executive turned agri-entrepreneur, to talk about how a passion for farming and a problem worth solving led to the creation of Invest In Farming Co-operative.
Nathan walks us through the disconnect between consumers and producers, the huge barriers to getting into farming, and the rollercoaster risk that comes with growing food. His answer? A digital platform that lets everyday people invest in real agricultural assets such as cattle, canola, oysters, and pineapples.
For farmers, it means access to capital without more debt. Instead of going to the bank or waiting for the next harvest cheque, they can presell a portion of their produce and get paid upfront before the season even starts.
We unpack how this model works, how it empowers farmers without loading them up with more debt, and how it’s fostering emotional and financial connections between urban investors and rural producers.
Disclaimer: The information provided is general in nature and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. You should consider seeking independent financial advice from a licensed adviser before making any investment decisions.

Episode 68: Family, finance & farming with Wendy Sawyer

Join us for a conversation with Wendy Sawyer, the powerhouse behind the financial management of one of Dalwallinu’s most successful farm businesses. Wendy has spent the last 15 years running the books—though as you'll hear, it's about far more than “just doing the books.”
Wendy shares her journey of adapting to farm life, stepping into a leadership role, and helping grow a multi-generational farming business through discipline, communication, and an unwavering respect for people.
"You're managing people, you're managing money, you're a nurse, you're a driver, a chauffeur, you're a hotelier... you're not just doing the books."
We dive into what financial discipline looks like on a large-scale operation, how risk is managed through close budgeting, and why running the office is just as vital as running the paddock.
Wendy reflects on succession planning, staff management, and what it really means to be trusted with the money. Plus, the importance of stepping back, knowing your limits—and why sometimes, the best thing you can do for your farm is to take a holiday.

Episode 67: The Eckard effect – Simplifying carbon accounting for farming with Dr Richard Eckard

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Richard Eckard, Professor of Carbon Farming at the University of Melbourne and National Program Leader at the Carbon Research Centre for Net Zero Agriculture. Richard is the mind behind Australia’s first carbon accounting tools, which is now the recognised standard in Australia for measuring on-farm carbon.
Accredited globally, Richard was named one of the world’s top 1,000 climate scientists by Reuters in 2021. He’s also a trusted advisor to governments across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Europe, as well as global organisations like the UN FAO and the International Livestock Research Institute.
"The way I think of carbon farming is: how can we become more efficient at capturing photosynthesis and turning it into a product we can send out to the market?"
Our conversation dives into what carbon accounting actually means in a farming context, why it's becoming critical for every farm business, and how good production farming is synonymous with low carbon farming. Richard unpacks some of the more common misunderstandings in the carbon farming space.

Episode 66: Market forces shaping agriculture with Matt Dalgleish

Join us as we sit down with Matt Dalgleish, agricultural market analyst, co-host of the AgWatchers Podcast, and founder of Episode 3, to explore the key forces shaping today’s commodity landscape.
With a background in financial markets spanning equities, metals, and foreign exchange, Matt brings a sharp, data-driven lens to the world of ag. Since transitioning into agricultural market analysis in 2015, he’s become one of the most trusted voices in the field, regularly quoted in the press for his independent take on global trends.
In this episode, we explore everything from geopolitical shocks and supply chain friction to market volatility and risk management. Matt shares insights on how shifting consumer trends are influencing the beef and lamb markets, and what grain growers need to watch as global trade tensions rise.
This conversation is all about making sense of the chaos and navigating uncertainty with clarity and confidence.

Episode 65: Shockwaves hit lucerne growers as S&W Seed collapses with Ben Farmer

Join us as we sit down with Ben Farmer, a lucerne grower and chair of the Executive Committee for Lucerne Australia, to unpack the complexities of the lucerne industry and the impact of S&W Seeds Australia entering voluntary administration.
We explore how this collapse has affected growers in Keith, South Australia—a region that produces 85% of Australia’s lucerne seed—and the ripple effects on the broader industry. Ben breaks down the specialised nature of lucerne farming, the unique relationships between growers, plant breeders, seed buyers, and global markets, and why the failure of S&W Seeds has had such a massive financial impact.
This conversation is packed with insights into the double-edged sword of plant variety rights, market power, risk management, and resilience—plus the lessons growers are learning as they navigate this crisis.

Episode 64: The future of ESG in farming with Nuffield Scholar Catherine Marriott

Join us as we sit down with Catherine “Mazz” Marriott to explore her incredible agricultural journey, from her Nuffield Scholarship experiences to the real-world impacts of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policies on Australian farmers.
We dive into global perspectives on agriculture, the critical role of practical ESG strategies, and why farmers must have a seat at the decision-making table when it is time to make policies.
The conversation covers everything from food security and market access to how farmers adapt to consumer demands and environmental pressures. We talk about cultural shifts in agriculture, bust common myths about farming's role in society, and share thoughts on maintaining work-life balance while building strong community connections.

Episode 63: Food and fibre traceability and transparency with James Williamson

In this episode, we sit down with James Williamson from Orijin Plus to dive into the rapidly evolving world of food and fibre traceability. As consumer expectations for transparency continue to rise, we explore why trust in the agricultural supply chain has never been more critical. James takes us through the origins of Orijin Plus and how it’s tackling real challenges in the market, bridging the gap between producers and consumers.
We also unpack the growing influence of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, the impact of legislative changes, and the complexities of implementing traceability from paddock to plate. With new regulations on the horizon, we discuss what agricultural producers need to know to stay ahead and adapt to these shifts.
Beyond the business side, James shares personal insights into their journey in agriculture, offering a firsthand look at the industry’s transformation and the resilience required to navigate these changes.

Episode 62: Global trade, nuances, and the supply chain with Tim Hunt

Join us as we delve into the inspiring career and insightful conversations with Tim Hunt, a distinguished agribusiness advisor whose journey spans more than 25 years of analysing international markets, food trends, and supply chains.
From his early roles as a senior analyst to serving as General Manager at RaboResearch Australia and New Zealand, and later as the Global Dairy Strategist for Rabobank, Tim has built a reputation as a trusted advisor in the food and agribusiness sector. Today, through his work at Tim Hunt Consulting and GO.FARM, Tim continues to shape strategies for processors, branded food companies, primary producers, and agrifood investors alike.
In this episode, we discuss the dynamic intersection of technology and agriculture. We discuss evolving consumer trends, the critical importance of sustainability, and the complex impact of geopolitics on global agriculture. Tim shares stories from his extensive career, highlighting how incremental innovations and strategic collaborations have transformed supply chains and adapted businesses to change.
As the discussion unfolds, Tim emphasises the importance of understanding and adapting to market demands. His experiences offer a compelling blend of practical insight and visionary thinking, inspiring listeners who are passionate about agriculture and keen to learn from a seasoned expert.

Episode 61: Finding your "Ikigai" in ag with Kevin Bell

Join us as we delve into the inspiring career of Kevin Bell, a seasoned farm consultant and rural veterinary surgeon who has dedicated his life to making a meaningful impact in agriculture. From his early days in veterinary practice to his current work in WA’s Kimberley region, Kevin’s journey reflects a passion for animal science, research, and innovative thinking.
In this episode, Kevin takes us through his fascinating career path, starting with his work in Melbourne’s veterinary clinics, moving to South Korea to assist villages with livestock management, and back to Kojonup, WA, where he helped transform sheep management practices. Today, Kevin works with pastoralists in the Kimberley, driving advancements in beef productivity.
Kevin highlights the importance of curiosity, passion, and lifelong learning while offering advice for those looking to carve out a career in agriculture. If you're passionate about farming and want a glimpse into the mindset of a seasoned advisor, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.