Boots Off Log On!™

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.

Episode 60: Episode replay – What you need to know about grain marketing with Ten Tigers

In this episode replay, we speak to Chris Tonkin about all things grain marketing.
Chris grew up on the family farm at Coomberdale in the wheatbelt of Western Australia. He’s been immersed in the grains industry since 1995 and has held numerous roles in research, extension, sales, marketing, and consultancy. With a deep knowledge and passion for the grains industry and a solid reputation for working for farmers, Tonks founded Ten Tigers in 2004 as a dedicated grain marketing advisory business.
We unpack the complexity of the global grain trade and how this can affect the prices you receive, how to put together a good grain marketing strategy, why you should account for basis in your cash flow budget, the important interaction between your cash flow budgeting, tax strategy and how changing global conditions and government foreign policy can directly affect your price.
Chris talks about removing emotion from your grain marketing strategy and how to use it to underpin your short-term cost of production and long-term debt.  
We also cover some important do's and don'ts of grain marketing and why the whole family must be part of the grain marketing strategy.
If you are a grain grower or in the grains industry, this conversation is for you. Hope you enjoy it.

Episode 59: Hope is not a winning strategy – The AgriCoach Podcast reshare

In this episode, our joint CEO, David Egerton-Warburton, sits down in the guest chair for a change with Ben Law from the AgriCoach podcast and dives into why bookkeeping is your greatest ally.
David shares his journey from farming in Western Australia to the early days of Agrimaster. Our chats go into why many producers tend to avoid their bookkeeping and only do it for tax purposes. We dive into how and why they need to change their mindset. We also get into demystifying the difference between budgets and financial models and reveal what top producers do differently to manage their businesses effectively. Plus, David outlines the key habits every producer should adopt to succeed.
The difference between those who succeed and those who do not lies in their habits, not aspirations.
Join us as we break down how you can elevate your agricultural business and build strong financial habits today!

Episode 58: Fifty years of farm business knowledge with Lachlan Polkinghorne

Join us as we dive into the world of farm business management with Lachlan Polkinghorne, a respected farm management advisor with a career spanning over three decades. From his roots on a family farm to his role as Director of Farm Business Management at Marcus Oldham College, Lachlan has become a trusted advisor to both corporate and family farming businesses across Australia.
In this episode, Lachlan shares his journey and reflects on the cultural differences in farming between low and high rainfall regions. We discuss the evolving challenges farmers face, the changing landscape of consulting practices, and the critical skills of resilience and adaptability.
Lachlan also offers a candid perspective on farm succession, unpacking the complexities and hurdles unique to family farming. He emphasises the significance of leadership, mentorship, and knowledge transfer in ensuring the future success of farming businesses.
Tune in to explore his story and gain valuable takeaways for navigating the ever-changing world of farming.

Episode 57: Is growing Australian coffee right for you? With Jos Webber and David Peasley

In this episode of Boots Off Log On!, we’re excited to welcome two special guests, farmers Jos Webber and David Peasley. They share their firsthand experiences of cultivating coffee in Australia, taking us through the unique challenges and rewards of the industry. Based in New South Wales, Jos and David offer insights into their journey of building a reputation for Aussie-grown coffee.
They also introduce us to the Australian Coffee Growers' Manual, a guide they created to help other growers—new and experienced alike—learn the ropes of coffee farming. With practical advice on everything from picking the best location to keeping pests in check, their manual aims to make coffee farming easier and more successful.
Throughout the conversation, Jos and David open up about what sets Australian coffee apart and its distinctive qualities. They also discuss the potential for this industry to expand and become a part of the Australian agricultural landscape. Tune in for a fascinating look at how innovation and determination are driving the Australian coffee industry forward.

Episode 56: Incorporating active honey production on your farm with Damian Green

Step into the fascinating world of beekeeping and sustainable agriculture with Damian Green, founder of Bee Central, in this episode of Boots Off Log On! Damian shares his journey from bee enthusiast to visionary leader, founding Bee Central to partner with farmers and repurpose unused land by planting tea trees, which help bees produce premium activated medicinal honey.
With bees responsible for pollinating 40% of the food we eat, Damian underscores just how vital bees are—not only to agriculture but also to humanity’s survival. He discusses their indispensable role in Australian agriculture, enhancing pollination and bolstering food production, and educates listeners on the unique properties of activated honey.
Throughout the episode, Damian also discusses the pressing issues facing the bee industry, from biosecurity threats to the need for community action to preserve bee populations. He emphasises the importance of education and public involvement in supporting bee health and sustainability.
Whether you’re interested in agriculture, environmental sustainability, or the marvels of bees, this episode provides inspiring insights into how Bee Central’s work enhances land use and contributes to the future of sustainable agriculture through the production of high-quality honey.