Boots Off Log On!™

Episode 37: Farmers for Climate Action — Championing change with Natalie Collard

In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Natalie Collard, the newly appointed CEO of Farmers for Climate Action.Natalie has an extraordinary background as an advocate for regional Australia, agriculture, renewable energy, innovation, and women's leadership. But what truly sets her apart is her dedication to driving change in the realm of climate action, particularly within the farming community.During this insightful conversation, we explore Natalie's journey and her personal connection to agriculture. She shares her insights into the role and origins of Farmers for Climate Action, a movement dedicated to championing climate policies and sustainable practices within the farming industry.Natalie dives into the shifting perceptions of farmers in the media, as well as the support her organisation has garnered both within the agricultural community and beyond. She delves into the collaborative efforts with farm representative bodies and the profound benefits of renewable energy for farmers and their communities.For those involved in animal agriculture, Natalie discusses how Farmers for Climate Action defends its environmental impact. The conversation takes a candid turn as we address the question of whether it's hypocritical for farmers to advocate for climate action, given their role as contributors to emissions.Breaking down barriers within farming communities and forging political advocacy for climate action are also integral parts of this engaging discussion. We discover how Farmers for Climate Action is working to influence political leaders and support farmers who feel helpless in the face of climate change.For those eager to get involved, Natalie provides valuable insights into where to begin, highlights farmer education resources, and shares the future goals of Farmers for Climate Action. Moreover, we debunk myths surrounding farmers and climate action, shedding light on the complex realities of their work.This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of climate action within the farming industry and how a passionate advocate like Natalie Collard is leading the way toward a sustainable and resilient future.

Episode 36: The secret to Andrew Fowler’s farm business success — Good people & great culture

In this inspiring and enlightening conversation, we sit down with Andrew Fowler, a prominent figure in the world of agriculture, a Nuffield Scholar, and former Chair of both Nuffield Australia and Nuffield International. Hailing from Condingup in Western Australia, Andrew and his family operate Chilwell Farm, a sprawling agricultural enterprise covering over 50,000 hectares today. Their diverse operations encompass canola, barley, wheat, lamb, wool, and beef, emphasising the harmonious relationship between livestock and cropping.In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Chillwell Farm, which started as a wool operation in the mid-1990s and has since grown into a thriving grain and livestock business, with grain accounting for a significant portion of their output. Andrew shares valuable insights into how they've successfully maintained both livestock and cropping areas, effectively balancing their portfolio and mitigating risk.One of the central themes of our discussion revolves around the role of people management in their business. Andrew and his brother Simon employ over 70 people during peak seasons, and they've developed a winning formula for attracting and retaining talent. Their unique approach to human resources focuses on investing in people and creating a work culture that fosters growth and professional development.But the Fowlers' impact extends beyond the farm gate. We explore how they, along with other local landowners in Condingup, actively invest in their community to preserve its vitality. By taking a self-imposed levy approach, they're contributing to the growth and sustainability of their small town, bucking the trend of rural areas losing their population.Andrew also reflects on the role of his Nuffield Scholarship in inspiring his journey of growth and success. The podcast sheds light on how experiences and lessons from the Nuffield program have continued to shape his perspective on agriculture.Tune in now to hear the compelling story of Chillwell Farm and the invaluable wisdom shared by Andrew Fowler..

Episode 35: Taking the Australian wool industry international with Stuart Adams

Join Agrimaster in Supporting RMHC WA — Make a donationAttend the Quorum Cocktail Party Fundraiser for RMHC WA (sponsored by Agrimaster) — Get TicketsIn this episode, we sit down with an old mate of ours, Stuart Adams, a true farm boy from Kojonup. Stuart's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. He embarked on a mission to add value to Australian wool, and along the way, he found himself collaborating with some of the world's biggest brands, including Nike, Adidas, Reebok, H&M, Lululemon, and Marks and Spencer.Together with his then wife Anne, Stuart ventured into the world of sustainable fiber consultancy, traveling the globe to advise continuum textiles and woolen mills on producing sustainable fibers for these major brands. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he decided to move his farming operation from Kojonup, Western Australia, to Shawville, Quebec, Canada, a place where snow blankets the landscape all winter, and temperatures can plummet to minus 30 degrees.In this wide-ranging conversation, we delve into the disconnection between brands and producers, discussing the gap between what they say and what they do. We also explore the challenges of proving sustainability as a farmer and Stuart's vision for a simpler measure of sustainability based on soil health measurements rather than individual behaviors.Stuart's agricultural career has been a fascinating evolution, and not many can claim they've relocated their farm business to a different country. We thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Stuart, and we hope you'll relish our conversation as much as we did.Highlights from the Podcast:Stuart's journey in the textile industry, working with major brands like Nike, Adidas, and more.Developing the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) in collaboration with H&M and Textile Exchange.The challenge of bridging the gap between consumers and farmers through industry standards.The importance of universal soil health measurements for sustainable farming.The ever-increasing cost of farming machinery and its impact on the agriculture industry's future.Tune in to gain insights from a remarkable farmer whose journey spans continents and industries. It's a conversation you won't want to miss.

Episode 34: SPECIAL EPISODE Adam Gilchrist — Philanthropist, beyond the bat and gloves

Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, where we take a departure from our usual topics to shed light on something of utmost importance — the care and support provided by Ronald McDonald House Charities WA (RMHC WA) to rural and regional families with critically ill children.Joining us today is a truly remarkable guest, the long-term patron of RMHC WA, a former Australian cricket captain, and a man considered by many as the greatest wicketkeeper-batsman of all time — Adam Gilchrist, affectionately known as Gilly.In this episode, co-hosted by our joint-CEOs (Natalie and David Egerton-Warburton), we delve into Adam Gilchrist's journey, from his rural upbringing in New South Wales to his role as a champion for RMHC WA. Gilly shares his experiences, insights, and memories, offering a unique perspective on the vital work of RMHC WA.We discuss how Gilly first became involved with RMHC WA and what inspired him to remain their patron for an incredible 23 years. Discover memorable moments and stories from his time as a patron that left a lasting impact, and the significant achievements and milestones of RMHC WA during his tenure. We also explore the crucial role community support plays in the success of charitable organisations like RMHC WA, and how Gilly's rural roots have shaped his values and influenced his philanthropic endeavours.But it's not all serious business. We also have some fun with Gilly as we explore topics like what to talk about in the commentary box when there is not much happening on the field, the intriguing story behind that iconic glove held up to the camera after his remarkable 143 runs from 104 balls that helped Australia win the 2007 World Cup final, and the one bowler he hated facing and could not work out, plus much more.This episode promises a delightful blend of inspiration, insight, and a touch of cricketing charm.Some eye-opening statistics about RMHC WA:81% of the families supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities Western Australia come from rural areas.In 2022, on average, 38 families per month found themselves on a waiting list for supported accommodation at RMHC WA458 Western Australian families were unable to access supported accommodation at Ronald McDonald Houses in 2022 due to capacity limitations.If you're interested in making a difference, we invite you to learn about Agrimaster's RMHC WA fundraiser, with the goal of adopting a room at the Ronald McDonald House for two years. Gilly will also be a keynote speaker at the Quorum Cocktail Party, with all proceeds going directly to RMHC WA. Your support, whether by attending the event or contributing to the fundraiser, is greatly appreciated. Agrimaster’s RMHC WA Fundraiser — Helping Rural FamiliesQuorum Cocktail Party Fundraiser for RMHC WA | Humanitix

Episode 33: Navigating farming's evolution with Jack Creswell, the podcasting farmer

In this episode, we're thrilled to sit down with Jack Creswell, the driving force behind Farms Advice, a podcast committed to fostering knowledge exchange and innovation within various sectors of agriculture. Jack is no ordinary host; he's a full-time farmer overseeing an impressive White Dorper sheep farming enterprise spanning the picturesque landscapes of Wilcannia and Dungary in New South Wales. From Wilcannia to London to Dungary — Jack Creswell, the podcasting farmer, shares his unique perspective as both a farmer and a passionate agricultural storyteller sets the stage for an enlightening discussion.Jack's journey unfolds from his early days pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Agribusiness, Marketing, and Management, to his current role as the manager of Annalara Stud. Beyond his farm duties, he founded "Advert Your Eyes" and lent his voice to Farms Advice, enriching the industry with invaluable insights.We delve deep into Jack's world, exploring how he skillfully balances his diverse roles and the dynamic interplay between agriculture and marketing. His heartfelt dedication to sharing the stories of fellow farmers and individuals within the farming business shines through as we learn about his favorite episodes and topics that resonate with Farms Advice listeners.But what truly sets Farms Advice apart is its commitment to fostering change in the farming community. Jack reveals how he and his guests are helping reshape the way farming knowledge is shared, ensuring it reaches even more ears and minds. We explore the expanding horizons in the field of agriculture and the exciting prospects for those looking to work within it.Jack shares his vision for Farms Advice, highlighting his ideal audience and the direction he envisions for this impactful podcast. So, whether you're a seasoned farmer, an aspiring agribusiness professional, or simply someone with a curious mind, join us in this episode to gain fresh insights into the evolving world of farming, as seen through the eyes and words of Jack Creswell.

Episode 32: From paddock to podcast — Oli Le Lievre’s Ag journey

Having dedicated himself to giving voices to all the humans of agriculture, it's now time to give Oli Le Lievre a voice of his own – who is Oli Le Lievre?
Join us on this captivating episode as we delve into the personal journey of Oli Le Lievre, the visionary behind Humans of Agriculture (HOA). Through heartfelt conversations, Oli shares his inspiring path into the world of agriculture, the challenges he overcame, and the evolution that led to the creation of the acclaimed podcast. We explore how Oli's experiences as a jackaroo in Australia and Canada shaped his profound understanding of agriculture. Discover the pivotal moments that ignited Oli's passion for the sector, from his role in the Global Food Innovation Summit to his insights as an Agtech startup professional.
Uncover the origins of HOA and the emotional connection that drives its success. Learn how the podcast's storytelling approach captures the heart and soul of agriculture, making everyday heroes out of ordinary individuals. Oli reflects on the milestones that marked the podcast's growth and offers a glimpse into the secrets behind its popularity.
But it's not all about agriculture – find out Oli's hobbies and pastimes outside of this realm. We also debunk a major myth surrounding agriculture that has persisted beyond the sector.
As we wrap up, Oli opens up about the fulfilling and rewarding aspects of his work with HOA, sharing how it has transformed his perspective on agriculture and the world at large. Join us in envisioning the future as Oli reveals his aspirations and goals for the podcast's impact on the agricultural community and beyond.
Tune in to this episode for an emotional journey that paints agriculture in a whole new light, inspiring change and connection through the power of storytelling.

Episode 31: Episode replay - The Unbreakable Farmer’s remarkable journey

In this special episode, we take a step back to revisit one of our most inspiring conversations: "The Unbreakable Farmer" with Warren Davies. Our podcast has been gaining popularity, and many new listeners have asked us which older episodes they should start with. Today, we've got the perfect one for you. At "Boots Off, Log On," we believe that the key to success in modern farm businesses lies in getting the people side of the business right. Family, employees, and our own mental health are crucial aspects to focus on, and Warren Davies' story exemplifies this.If you're new to the podcast, we recommend starting with this episode to gain valuable insights from Warren Davies' remarkable journey of self-discovery and success. But don't worry, we'll be back with more great guests and episodes in August.In the mean time, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to learn about rural mental health and find ways to support themselves and their communities.

Episode 30: Navigating succesion - Insights for family farm business with Stuart Wesley

In this episode, we sit down with Stuart Wesley, the principal consultant at Oasis People and Culture. Renowned for his expertise in culture development, leadership coaching, conflict resolution, and developing relational maturity and human interaction skills which uniquely positions him to address the challenges and opportunities that arise during the succession process. During our conversation, we explore the crucial questions one must ask when embarking on the journey of succession planning. Stuart shares his insights on the most important considerations to ensure a smooth transition of leadership within a family business. From assessing the family's readiness to identifying potential conflicts, we delve deep into the core aspects of this critical process.We also explored the role of legal and accounting professionals in the succession process - How families should involve these experts to ensure a well-structured and legally sound transition. By drawing parallels with non-family businesses, family businesses can learn valuable lessons in terms of succession planning and the importance of appointing qualified individuals.Join us in this thought-provoking episode of "Boots Off, Log On," where we navigate the complexities of succession planning, unravelling the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for family businesses.

Episode 29: Boosting your farm’s profitability - Key strategies revealed with John Francis

In today's episode, we have a special guest, John Francis, a highly experienced farm business advisor hailing from Wagga Wagga in New South Wales. John is the proud Director and Consultant at Agrista, where he has garnered extensive knowledge in the field of agriculture. With 15 years of experience as an Agronomist and another 15 years dedicated to farm business advisory, John is well-equipped to guide clients in enhancing their core profitability.During our conversation, we delve into the crucial aspects of running a profitable livestock enterprise. Specifically, we explore the significance of adopting a per hectare and per DSE (Dry Sheep Equivalent) focus to maximise returns from your land. Additionally, we shed light on calculating the critical farm business measure of Return on Asset managed, considering the current landscape of soaring land prices and asset values.We also address the recent changes in the farm business environment, such as increasing interest rates, high inflation, and softening commodity prices. Despite these challenges, John highlights the wealth creation opportunities that exist for businesses with strong financial management skills. As we navigate this new economic environment, it becomes evident that mastering financial management, budgeting, and cashflow skills will be paramount for businesses to thrive.This conversation offers a captivating and informative insight into farm business management, delivered by one of the industry's leading experts. We are confident that you will gain valuable knowledge from John's expertise.

Episode 28: The challenge of finding and retaining employees in farming with John Boote

Welcome back to the podcast, where we delve into the challenges that farm businesses face in Australia, particularly in finding and retaining employees. In this episode, we speak with John Boote, a straight-shooting recruiter for farm businesses across the country, who founded Drover Ag Recruitment in 2019.Through Drover Ag, John has been able to connect with and help thousands of farming clients and candidates towards better employment outcomes. Drover Ag is now Australia's most recognised and recommended Agricultural recruitment agency, and John employs a team of recruitment specialists, all experienced in agriculture, who are based across rural Australia.We discuss the mindset shift that farmers need to make to attract and retain good employees, emphasising the importance of looking inward at their own business culture.According to John, communication, inclusion, and the elimination of micro-management are key to engaging and retaining good employees. He also notes that although agriculture offers excellent career opportunities, the industry has a poor reputation as an employer, making it the collective responsibility of farmers to change this culture.We explore how good operators find and retain quality staff, which is a strategic advantage for their business. If you're a farmer looking to employ people, this is insightful advice that you won't want to ignore.Listen to John's wisdom and insight to start your journey towards becoming an employer of choice in the industry.