Seeds for Success

Broden Holland runs a mixed farming operation between Grenfell and Young, alongside his extended family. Like so many others this season, Koolpari Enterprises has been dealing with the price of inputs against potential yields, leading to some clever decision-making on-farm. In today's episode, Broden shares some of the challenges he's expecting during the 2022 cropping season and how basing paddock decisions on grain protein maps rather than yield mapping has been a game-changer for their business. Broden also shares the ag technology used on his farm and how this early adoption has helped increase yields and uniformity in their crops. Local Land Services cropping officer Time Bartimote caught up with Broden in the machinery shed between a couple of loads of spray rig for this chat. Special thanks: This episode is supported by Central West Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program. Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Greig runs a mixed farming operation near Tottenham, where he works alongside his wife Melissa and their two children. David is passionate about the Merino industry and has spent the last ten years choosing rams with above-average sheep breeding values for fat, muscle, good growth rates, and other desirable traits such as breech cover and breech wrinkle. In this episode, David explains how he's seen their lambing percentages double through the selection of superior rams with desired traits. You'll also hear David's journey and connection to ag, as well as his plans for the future. Plus, an insight into why he's comfortable with less commonly preferred traits, such as smaller-framed ewes. Local Land Services Senior Natural Resource Officer, Jasmine Wells, caught up with David in between jobs on the farm at Tottenham for a cuppa and this chat. Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tess Herbert, along with her husband Andrew and their family, runs a 6,000 head cattle feedlot on their property “Gundamain” at Eugowra, along the Lachlan River. Tess is a passionate advocate for the red-meat industry, and currently holds several leadership positions within the industry where she is working on developing innovative approaches to the issues facing Australian agriculture. In today's episode, Tess shares how important goal-setting has been in turning their small-scale family farming business into one of the largest employers for the region. You'll hear Tess talk about the challenges of feedlotting during the drought and floods, and give her perspective on some of the issues facing Australian Agriculture. Plus, Tess shares some handy marketing tips for forward contracts and working out your livestock buy price. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Officer Rohan Leach squeezed in this chat with Tess ahead of the next truckload of stock being delivered into the feedlot.   Resources and links: Big Tech Big Ideas Conference   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ros Patton is a Senior Project Officer for the Suicide Prevention Project and the owner and a manager of a mixed-operation farm. Ros works full-time with her husband and their two sons, managing sheep, cattle, and crops, on their farm near Condobolin and spends her spare time volunteering within her community. In this episode, Ros shares her passion for destigmatising mental health in rural communities, hoping that mental illness will once be as easy to talk about and seek help for as any other medical issue. Plus, you’ll hear Ros discuss the first steps involved in seeking help for yourself or someone else.  Local Land Services Natural Resource Management Officer Jasmine Wells caught up with Ros in between her cattle mustering adventures for this insightful and important conversation.   Mental health support: Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 Call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 Call Western Plains Regional Development on 02 6895 3301   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After two years working on 'Seeds for Success', Cal Thompson is hanging up the microphone and moving on from Local Land Services to pursue his own farming and consulting business. Before he left, we had a chance to sit Cal down on the other side of the table and interview him about his life in the cattle industry, and the lessons he's learnt in podcasting. In this episode, we learn about how Cal approaches running his cattle breeding and trading business, with plenty of talk about everyone's favourite topic: tropical grasses. Cal discusses the challenges of maintaining a balance between advising and farming, and shares the unique perspective his role has provided him. Plus, you'll hear Cal reflect on the last two years of working on 'Seeds for Success', and what this opportunity has meant for him. So thanks, Cal. We can't thank you enough for your great stories, and everything you've brought to 'Seeds of Success'.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ned Williams and his father Kim are based just north of Dubbo on their third generation property, “Polldale”. Together, Ned, Kim and their families run a shorthorn cattle stud with a pasture system, focused on tropical pastures and lucerne irrigated using local effluent. In this episode, Kim talks about the challenges they have faced while introducing tropical pastures and improved grazing management to build the health of their poorer soils. And, as Ned explains, it has taken a generational effort to transform their land into a more productive and sustainable place for his own children and their future generations. Local Land Services Cropping Officer, Tim Bartimote, had a good look around the farm with Ned and Kim before sitting down at the house for this chat.   Resources and links: Establishing tropical pastures Grazing management systems Improve water infiltration with groundcover   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Freebairn runs a busy agricultural consultancy business — Robert Freebairn Agriculture — while also running his own farm with his wife Sue at Coonabarabran. Bob has a wealth of knowledge on managing light soils, tropical grasses, and dual-purpose cereals — and has been credited with transforming agriculture in the Central West of NSW, particularly around Coonabarabran. In this episode, Bob shares some valuable lessons from his long career, including his work with the Department of Ag, and how he’s worked with farmers to help them make productive changes on-farm. He also shares his vision for the future of agriculture and how he believes there’s an untapped commercial potential in native grasses. Local Land Service Mixed Farming Officer Callen Thompson sat down with Bob as he shared his 55 years of experience and his hopes for the future of agriculture.   Special thanks: This episode is supported by Central West Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.   Resources and links: Link to Central West LLS Dual Purpose Crop trials   Central West LLS Tropical Grass demonstrations     Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winsome Mumford runs her family properties "Mogriguy" and "Parkmead", just north of Dubbo, where she's busy rebuilding her Hereford Simmental cross cattle herd after the recent drought. In this episode, Winsome shares her background in training and the corporate world, and how she continues to draw on her off-farm income to help achieve her goals on-farm. With soil and water management at the forefront of her decision making, Winsome has connected with many levels of government and industry to achieve a number of erosion control projects to help enhance the health of her farm and for the community downstream. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Officer Rohan Leach sat down with Winsome to talk about her foray back into agriculture.   Resources and links: Mogriguy Healthy Farm Dams with Central West LLS Field Day   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Leigo and his wife Danielle own and run properties at Condobolin and Wanaaring in western NSW, while working full-time off-farm as well. The challenge of 550 km between properties and off-farm work means they need to be able to plan, prioritise and make decisions well in advance to keep things running smoothly. In this episode, James shares the journey he and his wife Danielle went on from set stocking to a rotational grazing system. He explains how their focus is on looking after their palatable perennial plant species, using feed budgets as their trigger for decisions within their cattle, Dorper sheep and goat production business. And we also cover how they're now incorporating carbon farming into the mix. Local Land Services Natural Resource Management Officer Jasmine Wells waded through the water during the recent floods to bring you this interview with James.   Resources and links: The Glove Box Guide to Tactical Grazing Management for the semi-arid woodlands Prograze - profitable, sustainable grazing   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Penny Henley — along with her husband Phil, daughter Nicole, and son-in-law Dan — run Emu Logic, near Tooraweenah in Central West NSW. This 1,200 acre livestock property runs cattle, sheep, goats and emus! Penny is an active member of her local Landcare group and is passionate about protecting native wildlife and controlling pest animals. In this episode, Penny discusses the importance of working as a group to control pest species, as well as her experience in controlling pigs, foxes and cats and her passion for agriculture and the natural environment. Local Land Services Mixed Farm Advisor Callen Thompson, caught up with Penny at Emu Logic … and was fortunate enough to try some emu jerky while he was there!   Resources and links: Emu Logic Pig trapping tips and tricks   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent Johnstone runs a livestock trading enterprise along with his shorthorn bull breeding business at Forbes and Lyndhurst. To facilitate his trading business, Trent has become a bit of an expert at doing the numbers on leasing country and agisting livestock as well. In this episode, Trent shares some of his key principles for trading livestock as well as some of his memorable wins and losses in the trading game, as well as how he manages livestock on as many as 13 different properties across the state in an effort to mitigate against drought. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor Rohan Leach met up with Trent on top of Memorial Hill in Parkes, after Trent ran into a spot of some trouble in the morning with a B-Double full of stock.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situ This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Wooldridge (or Wooly as he is better known) has spent the last 24 years helping to improve soil health across New South Wales. A Salinity Technical Specialist by day, he also runs his own farm business with his wife Margie at Canowindra. In this episode, Wooly shares the importance of reading our landscape, including learning to manage the water balance on farm, to knowing the key early indicators that can help identify if salt is an issue in our farming system. He also discusses what actions producers can take to better prevent and manage salt-affected areas. Local Land Services Natural Resource Management Officer Jasmine Wells caught up with Wooly out in the field on one of his recent visits to a new salt outbreak site.   Resources and links: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/-/media/OEH/Corporate-Site/Documents/Land-and-soil/salinity-indicator-plants.pdf https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/eSpade2Webapp   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Volkofsky manages a 2,200 ha cropping program across four farms in the Bearbung Valley, east of Gilgandra. With livestock absent from each property for at least a generation, Daniel shares with us some of the challenges he's experienced and the knowledge he's gained from continuous cropping in one of the region's coldest climates. Daniel believes getting on top of weeds in this farming system is an important key for success, and in this episode, he shares his methodology. He also discusses why he’s a keen supporter of the local crop competition, and why he’s an advocate of farmers learning from each other to get the best out of their land. Local Land Services Cropping Officer Tim Bartimote sat down with Daniel overlooking his winter crops, for this great yarn.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sally and Mark Dent run a mixed farming business on the historic Cobbora Station, a 1150ha property with breeding, trade cattle and cropping just west of Dunedoo.   Mark and Sally epitomise the true community spirit and are now promoting other local businesses and local produce focussing on sustainable production, healthy landscapes and strong communities. In this episode, Mark and Sal share how the recent drought led them to diversify their business and secure additional income by incorporating agritourism. Mark and Sally sat down with Local Land Services mixed farming advisor, Callen Thompson over biscuits and a cuppa to share their experience integrating agritourism into their farming business.   Special thanks: This episode is supported by Central West Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.   Resources and links: Mark and Sally participated in an agritourism webinar hosted by LLS and DPI. There are some photos and videos of their farm, the recording can be found here: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/about-us/services/fbrp Farm Business Resilience Program   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Mortimer is a self-confessed “Sheep Geek” who uses technology in some interesting ways. Mark farms alongside his father, brother and their family near Albert in Central West NSW, in their stud sheep operation and business, Centre Plus Merinos. Mark is a problem solver at heart, and in this episode he shares some of the hard lessons he has learnt through his use of technology with livestock. He also uses his experience to give some tips to innovators out there on what farmers really need from their technology. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor, Rohan Leach managed to squeeze this interview in with Mark just before he headed into a busy harvest period.   Resources and links: The Big Tech Big Ideas conference and field day   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mick Doolan, with his wife Pip, own and manage "Walla Walla" — a 1,300 hectare mixed farm between Gulargambone and Coonamble. Mick and Pip manage the property themselves, focussing on breeding and fattening cattle, with the recent addition of cropping to add value to the livestock enterprise. In this episode, Mick discusses some important factors around the first 10 years of owning a farm. He also reflects on the value of good business advice and how joining a benchmarking group has challenged his ideas and helped him develop a new approach to decision making on the farm (especially on how to make good decisions during the harder seasons). Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor Callen Thompson caught up with Mick while he was taking a rain-induced break from sorghum planting.   Resources and links: Farm Business Resilience Program   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Rosser and his family own and run 3,500 acres at “Galwary”, near Eugowra, as part of a larger family business that also incorporates rangeland grazing properties at Wanaaring in Far West NSW. Mike currently runs 6,000 sheep, aiming to turn off 8,000 to 9,000 lambs per year. In this episode, Mike explains how a need to finish their lambs faster and increase their landholding led them to intensify their enterprise and implement an accelerated joining program. And as you’ll hear, Mike doesn’t mind pushing the envelope and making clever business decisions when it comes to getting more lambs on the ground. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Officer Rohan Leach sat down with Mike between one of his recent trips out to the Wannaring block.   Resources and links: The Big Tech Big Ideas conference and field day   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin "Tex" Kilby and his family-run "Inglewood", a conglomeration of five properties nestled within what is regarded as the 'Golden Triangle' north of Gilgandra. The Kilby's run a true mixed farming enterprise with a cereal, legume and canola rotation alongside permanent pastures for beef cattle and fat lamb production. In this episode, "Tex" lets us in on his keys to success including being open to new ideas and approaches, supporting locally based research and conserving soil moisture at all costs. It is this approach that has been instrumental in helping him build his business resilience and manage through the variability of our seasons. Local Land Services Cropping Officer Tim Bartimote sat down with "Tex" for a cuppa and this yarn at the homestead on "Inglewood".   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Logan Tighe owns and runs LJT Harvesting, a professional kangaroo harvesting business based in Coonabarabran. Logan is an avid listener to the Seeds for Success podcast and is keen to educate more people about the kangaroo industry. In this episode, Logan talks about the industry, including what is involved in harvesting kangaroos and what the meat is used for. You'll also hear how Logan aims to build a trusted relationship that provides a valuable service through helping farmers reduce grazing pressure and control invasive pest species. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Advisor Callen Thompson sat down for this chat with Logan just before he headed out to work for the night.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack Creswell runs a family property “Dungary”, just outside of Dubbo, with his father Steve and partner Isa. As well as running 2,500 White Dorpers and the successful White Dorper stud, “Annalara”, Jack also has a passion for advocacy in the agricultural sector. In this episode, Jack shares how his desire to build the profile for agriculture has led him to a side-project, “Farms Advice’. As Jack explains, this is a platform that has unlocked a whole new world of communication, connection and avenues to create meaningful discussion and genuine understanding of the ever-changing agricultural industry.    Resources and links: Farms Advice podcast Grain Farm Jobs | Western Australia  Home Help harvest NSW   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate the one year anniversary of the launch of Seeds for Success, three new dynamic and interesting characters are being welcomed onto the team. In this episode, we introduce our new Seeds for Success team members and ask them to share a little of their background with our listeners. You’ll also hear why they are so passionate about working alongside our farmers to build a secure and successful future for agriculture and natural resources in our region. Local Land Services Mixed Farming Officer Callen Thompson gathered together Jasmine Wells, Tim Bartimote and Rohan Leach for this fun, introductory chat.   Get in touch: Callen Thompson via email or Twitter Jasmine Wells via email Tim Bartimote via email or Twitter Rohan Leach via email or Twitter   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maria Thompson is an agricultural consultant based in Coonabarabran and just happens to also be the wife of Callen Thompson, our Mixed Farming Officer and podcaster. As luck would have it, COVID restrictions had Callen looking within his own lockdown zone for the next Seeds for Success interview and as you’ll hear, Maria is a woman of many talents with an inspiring tale to tell. In this episode, Maria describes the path that led to creating her own agricultural consultancy and how the opportunities she was offered during her early career have been instrumental in setting her professional purpose to build greater opportunities for young agricultural professionals within the industry.   Resources and links: Rising Champions | Cattle Council of Australia Building careers in the meat industry | Australian Intercollegiate Meat Judging Association (ICMJ)   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Original publish date: 27 Oct 2020. Today, we're taking you back down memory lane. Remember Jarrod and Emma Amery, the super positive duo who own and lease more than 6,500 acres around Forbes in Central West NSW, while keeping up with their six lively kids? Well, earlier this year Jarrod and Emma were rewarded for all their hard work when they were named as finalists in the Cropping Farmer of the Year Award. To celebrate their success, we decided to revisit our chat with Jarrod and Emma from last year. In this episode, you'll hear how Jarrod went from being a local shearer to securing his dream farm. But as Jarrod and Emma describe, this journey wasn't always without its challenges. It's taken a lot of hard work, a can-do attitude, and most importantly, some well-timed decisions. Local Land Services District Vet Jill Kelly sat down with Jarrod and Emma for this chat during a brief break in one of their busy working days.   Resources and links: Check for foot problems in sheep Footrot in Sheep and Goats Animal biosecurity   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Darrell Jordison, along with his wife Kylie, own "Barnagrotty". Together, they farm 4,000 acres and run 400 cows at Gulargambone. Unusually, Darrell and Kylie didn't grow up rural. In this episode, Darrell shares Kylie and his journey from growing up in suburban Sydney to running their own farm and getting the chance to travel the world along the way. You'll also hear how a rare illness has given Darrell a new outlook on life. And how his story goes to show that working hard, learning from others and being willing to try new things can lead to success. Central West Local Land Services Mixed Farm Advisor Callen Thompson sat down with Darrell at home on "Barnagrotty" as he shared his story.   Resources and links: Young Farmer Business Program   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Norton Crane runs 200 cows and 500 sheep over 1,400 hectares, just south of Coonabarabran, in partnership with his wife Judi. Norton is well known as a capable cattleman, previously managing Hartley Grazing Company, a beef cattle business covering over 10,000 hectares with farms at New Mollyan and Hartley. In this episode, Norton discusses how creep feeding calves has enabled him to meet his target markets irrespective of the season while taking pressure off his breeders. Norton spoke to Mixed Farm Advisor Callen Thompson over a cup of tea and some delicious pumpkin soup at the kitchen table at "Bannockburn".   Resources and links: Creep feeding beef calves   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David and Suellen Taylor join us for an emotional episode about rebuilding after losing their home in a devastating fire. The Taylors run merino sheep and grow dual-purpose oats across 1,600 ha on their property Myola, just out of Trundle, NSW. In this episode, David and Suellen share how important their community was after they lost their home. They share the story of their long journey to recovery and how building their new family home has helped them to reflect on the importance of their local community. David and Suellen also discuss their new appreciation for the value of matching both your natural and personal environments in one harmonious system. Local Land Service Mixed Farm Advisor, Callen Thompson, sat down for this emotional chat in one of the sunniest spots within the Taylor's incredible new home.   Resources and links: The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP)   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David and Suellen Taylor run merino sheep and grow dual-purpose oats across 1,600 ha on their property Myola, just out of Trundle, NSW. David describes the environment they live and work in as highly variable. And in this episode, you’ll hear him explain how this variability has shaped the natural environment, creating a unique native grassland system and influencing the production decisions he makes at Myola. You’ll also hear about David's personal journey to better understand the ecosystem in which he farms. He explains how long term observations, undertaking his Masters and PhD studies and ongoing local research have helped to form a new appreciation and respect for the diversity and resilience of the grasslands on the Central West Plains.   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is part two of our series featuring Jim Larkin, owner and manager of "Clarefield". "Clarefield" is a self-replacing cattle property with some hay and grain production, east of Binnaway, NSW. In this episode, Jim discusses how the simple process of applying for funding through the Biodiversity on Farms project enabled him to reach his goals for improved management and habitat protection on "Clarefield". You'll also hear how Jim is heavily involved in fostering the next generation of farmers through the Binnaway Junior Judges program, a program that encourages school students to pursue a career in agriculture. Jim spoke to Callen Thompson over a cup of tea at the Kitchen table of "Yeulba", Jim’s house block.   Special thanks: This episode is supported by Central West Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.   Resources and links: Blue heliotrope (Heliotropium amplexicaule) Blue Heliotrope: A weed to watch out for Young Judges Day Binnaway Show Society LLS incentive programs proving a win-win for farmers John Atkin remembered for his farming feats Australia Day Awards 2021   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Larkin owns and manages "Clarefield", a 1,000-hectare property east of Binnaway, where he runs a self-replacing cattle herd with some hay and grain production. John Atkin, the previous owner, was passionate about developing "Clarefield" with the use of lime, fertiliser and tropical grasses. In this episode, we hear how Jim shares John’s passion and has continued to improve the land he manages by managing pests and weeds, improving pastures and managing his natural assets to maintain biodiversity. Jim spoke to Callen Thompson over a cup of tea at the kitchen table of "Yeulba", Jim’s house block.   Special thanks: This episode is supported by Central West Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.   Resources and links: Blue heliotrope (Heliotropium amplexicaule) Blue Heliotrope: A weed to watch out for Young Judges Day Binnaway Show Society LLS incentive programs proving a win-win for farmers John Atkin remembered for his farming feats Australia Day Awards 2021   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrea Fletcher (or Andy as she's known to the locals) is a Senior Biosecurity Weeds Officer with Castlereagh Macquarie County Council, based out of Coonabarabran. Andy is passionate about weed control, and no matter how big the weed problem is, she will have a go at getting on top of it. In this episode, you’ll hear how Andy has had great success with weeds that everyone thought couldn’t be beaten. You’ll also hear how Andy’s developed her own beetle nursery to help bolster the bio-control opportunities within her region, and how her hard work and ongoing tenacity has seen her recognised with a State award for her contribution to the management and control of Hudson Pear in NSW.   Resources and links: NSW Weed Control Handbook NSW WeedWise Castlereagh Macquarie County Council | Noxious Weeds Control Boosting baby beetle numbers for blue heliotrope biocontrol   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Bowman, along with his family, run a mixed farming operation on their property “Gundy” near Tooraweenah. In this episode, Tim talks about his Shorthorn cattle enterprise and how he approaches the important decision of selecting bulls, as well as how he’s incorporating artificial insemination into their breeding program to speed up the genetic process and have heifers calve over a nice tight window. Local Lands Services District Vet Jill Kelly caught up with Tim in the back yards after a bull sale. And as you'll hear, Jill learnt that there's a bit more to it than turning up on sale day with your bidder card in hand!   Resources and links: Checking your bull is ready for joining Bull health Buy the right bulls Tooraweenah brothers use AI to lift their Shorthorn herd   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the second part of our conversation with Andrew (Fadge) McFadyen. In part one, Fadge shared his personal journey as a young agronomist, the importance of mentoring and the role he can play as an industry leader. In this episode, Fadge shares his vision for the future of the agricultural industry, and how he believes harnessing the combined power of grower-driven research is key to tackling agriculture's emerging challenges, including herbicide resistance and climate change. Local Land Service Mixed Farm Advisor, Callen Thompson brings you this extended chat with Fadge from the veranda of “Wilga Park”.   Resources and links: Grain Orana Alliance Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) North West Local Land Services - Tropical pastures webinar recording What I wish I knew: Agros to share experiences with ‘next gen’   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew McFadyen (or “Fadge”), is a farmer and agricultural consultant based at Lake Cargelligo who has recently come back to the family sheep and cropping farm. In this episode, you’ll hear how Fadge's passion for the future of agriculture has lead him into leadership roles within his community and throughout the cropping industry, and how he’s using the lessons learnt from both agronomy and corporate agriculture to make sure his farming business fits the goals and aspirations of his family. Fadge sat down for a long yarn with Local Land Service Mixed Farm Advisor, Callen Thompson, on the veranda of “Wilga Park”.   Resources and links: Grain Orana Alliance Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) North West Local Land Services - Tropical pastures webinar recording What I wish I knew: Agros to share experiences with ‘next gen’   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we catch-up again with Georgia White at her family farm “Talbragar”, near Coolah. In our last episode, Georgia was preparing to launch herself headfirst into the challenging task of managing her ewe flock through to lambing. And now, six months later, she shares what worked (and what didn’t!), as well as a sneak peek at what’s next for this promising young farmer.   Resources and links: Sue Hatcher's paper on lamb survival Lambs Alive training program   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia White moved back to her family farm “Talbragar” near Coolah, to help her family manage drought, however, the drought broke not long after her arrival. Choosing to stay on anyway, Georgia instead turned to tackling the mammoth task of managing their ewe flock through lambing, and in this episode, she shares her strategies for managing singles, twins and triplets throughout a great season.   Resources and links: Sue Hatcher's paper on lamb survival Lambs Alive training program   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mick Wettenhall operates a bustling family farm, Weemabah, alongside his wife Kirsty and father-in-law George. It's situated near Trangie. Their diverse mixed-farming business encompasses both summer and winter cropping alongside holistically managed grazing of sheep and cattle. In this episode, we hear about Mick's many passions, from breeding great cattle and building resilient pasture systems, to harnessing the power of healthy soils and fungi in an attempt to holistically boost soil carbon storage within his soils.   Resources and links: SoilCQuest   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack Brennan manages "Merrimba", a 20,000-hectare sheep and cropping property between Warren and Quambone. At the time of recording, in January 2020, the drought still hadn't broken. And in this episode, you'll hear Jack's thoughts on how they've managed the livestock throughout, as well as how experiencing drought has shaped his and his team's outlook on farming.   Resources and links: Australia Day Address 2020 by Grace Brennan Early weaning – importance of getting nutrition right Livestock, vegetation and dry times: Decisions to be made   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fiona Aveyard and her husband Bill run Outback Lamb, a vertically-integrated farming business focusing on single-origin pasture-fed lamb. It's part of their commercial sheep and cropping operation, 'Westpoint', near Tullamore. Determined to secure the future for their four children, Bill and Fiona came up with a creative approach to growing their business. And in this episode, you'll hear how this plan, combined with a gradual embrace of social media, has allowed them to extend the reach of their 'paddock to plate' story.   Resources and links: Provenance Storytelling for Success   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason and Kylie Catts run Futurity Shorthorns, a seed stock supplier with properties at Kenebri, north of Baradine and Coonamble. Together, they grow and store grain and silage to fill feed gaps, ensuring that they can maintain their herd and produce quality genetics for their clients. Jason and Kylie are passionate about agriculture, particularly sharing information and knowledge through their rural community. And in this episode, you'll hear how they prioritise genetic traits that ensure their cattle are fit for all stages in the supply chain, from the producer through to the consumer.   Resources and links: Silage and hay Silage webinar series   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gabriel Passmore truly has the best of both worlds. He spends his weekdays in Sydney, working in the corporate world and surfing at Bondi. And on weekends, Gabriel eagerly heads west to work on his family's cattle properties around Forbes and Condobolin. Gabriel has a modern take on how to run the family farm, and it's not always easy convincing his father (with fifty years of experience) to go along with them. In this episode, you'll hear how they've had to compromise to look after their stock and battle through the drought.   Resources and links: Drought handbook Drought recovery guide Drought and Supplementary Feed Calculator Dry times smoko video   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bomber Moxham has been around a long time ... so he needs little introduction. Coy about how he initially came to be known as 'Bomber', he's been on the farm at "Mullengudgery" for 89 years, and he's seen a lot of change in agriculture over that time. In this episode, Bomber shares some hilarious stories from his past, he talks about what he loves about merinos, and he divulges the characteristics that he believes make Mullengudgery sheep the best merinos in the world. In fact, Bomber is so passionate about merino sheep that his car proudly dons the number plate MERINO.   Resources and links: Pimelea poisoning Pimelea deaths Understanding Pimelea poisoning of cattle   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tallah Looten runs the livestock side of a family cropping and livestock operation at "The Camp", just east of Coonamble. Tallah is truly an inspiring "Lady on the land". In this episode, you'll hear how Tallah has overcome immense adversity (including drought, family illness and fertility challenges) and yet continues to farm with a bright, positive attitude. You’ll also hear how Tal's passion for agriculture and thirst for knowledge has steered their family business down the path of flexibility and resilience to meet whatever challenge is thrown at them next.   Resources and links: Tal Looten (@ladyontheland) on Instagram Sheep vaccines: Which to use when?   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew and Meegan Young (along with their son Joseph and Andrew’s parents) run "Napier", a mixed farming enterprise at Purlewaugh. They rotate wheat, canola and lucerne; a system that requires lower inputs and has the added benefit of increased beef production. In this episode, you'll learn how Andrew and Meegan had to make some tough decisions during the drought. Meegan talks about how much she loves her cows. And we also discuss how Andrew and Meegan's kids helped make the decision to destock that little bit easier.   Special thanks: Photography for this episode is by Jessica Rose Photography   Resources and links: Weaning beef calves Managing drought   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pete Rothwell is the cropping manager of "Bramble", a mixed-farming operation just north of Mendooran. They grow winter and summer crops over a thousand hectares, and run sheep and a few cows on the remaining six hundred hectares. In this episode, we hear how Pete, never one to accept the status quo, is always asking 'why'. As a result, he’s pushing the envelope in terms of crop type, yield and profitability — focusing on understanding his soil moisture and using this to drive decision making on his farm and in the wider community.   Special thanks: This episode is supported by Central West Local Land Services, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.   Resources and links: Soil Water App Soil moisture probes put to the test Budgeting crop nitrogen supply better estimation better decisions The Adapt Project Mendooran grower Pete Rothwell explains how data driven decision making is paying off   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're having a yarn with Jarrod and Emma Amery. Jarrod and his wife Emma are a super positive duo who somehow manage to keep up with six lively kids. On top of that, they also own and lease more than 6,500 acres around Forbes in Central New South Wales. Their mixed farming enterprise focuses on trading sheep, winter crops and fodder production. In this episode, you'll hear how Jarrod went from being a local shearer to securing his dream farm. But as Jarrod and Emma describe, this journey wasn't always without its challenges. It's taken a lot of hard work, a can-do attitude, and most importantly, some well-timed decisions.   Resources and links: Check for foot problems in sheep Footrot in Sheep and Goats Animal biosecurity   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we’re chatting with Elliot Shannon. Elliot runs a 1,700 ha mixed farm at Bugaldie (north-west of Coonabarabran). And he does it with the help of his wife Kate, his father Rob and his four kids. Together, they run beef cows as well as trade cattle and winter cropping. In this episode, Elliot talks about how early weaning helped him manage through the drought by giving him the ability to look after his land and his stock while staying productive. You’ll also hear how important it is to plan, make informed decisions and get the balance between family and farming right.   Resources and links: Weaning beef calves Managing drought Early weaning Early weaning lambs & calves Dry Times Smoko video Water requirements for sheep and cattle   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're in the paddock with James Morse (or “Morsey”). James and his wife Sally operate a family farming operation, “Wongalee”, near Molong. It's a 1,094 hectare cattle breeding and trading enterprise. Although, as you'll hear in this episode, they haven't ruled out branching out into other species, especially if their kids' goat breeding hobbies take off! In this episode, you'll hear how James and Sally run their whole farm system with sustainability in mind. James shares his tips on sustainability in soil, plants, animals and the environment, as well as how this sustainability mindset extends to his own mental health.   Mental health support: If you need urgent mental health support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or visit your local hospital emergency department. The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program has resources to help find the right supports for you. Visit www.ramhp.com.au to find your local RAMHP coordinator to access their range of downloadable resources.   Resources and links: Putting stock onto winter crops Green picks - the deceptive feed solution Restocking after drought or fire   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we have a yarn with Kieran McHugh (or “Mac” to his mates). Mac is the manager of “Pier Pier”, a corporate-owned station 70 km north-west of Coonamble. They focus on merino sheep, dryland crops and also run trade and agistment cattle (when the season allows). In this episode, you’ll hear Mac’s unlikely story of how he ended up at Pier Pier, how he built a cost-effective feedlot to early wean 7,000 lambs, and why he took the unconventional approach to wean his lambs prior to lamb marking.   Resources and links: Case Study: Confinement feeding at Pier Pier, Coonamble   Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on Twitter Central West LLS on YouTube   The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.