Australian Farmers: Telling Our Story

Angie Asimus
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Australian Farmers: Telling Our Story is hosted by television presenter and journalist, Angie Asimus and is powered by the National Farmers Federation. It's dedicated to connecting our wonderful farmers with health conscious consumers and ethically minded shoppers. Together, we can all learn more about the food we eat and the fibre we wear. This is your exclusive look behind the farm gate. As a country girl herself, Angie knows you'll love what you hear. From the freshest produce, to carbon neutral wool. What about female shearers and farms that give more to the land than they take in the battle against climate change? Is it possible to drought and flood proof your business through diversification so prices don't fluctuate so much at the supermarket? We tackle the most common misconceptions about life on the land and have many laughs along the way with some of the most memorable characters you could ever meet. Partnered with Australian Farmers - https://farmers.org.au/

  1. Sep 12

    S5 Ep 19 - Future Focussed

    As we look around the agriculture industry and see all the farmers, agronomists, educators, regional leaders and so many more – there's a good chance, a really great teacher helped ignite that passion and learn the skills to succeed. As an ag-teacher, you can often be the very first person to inspire a future industry leader. To learn more about cultivating agricultural careers, Amanda McClaren, a former Mayor, now from Victoria's Seymour College joins me now. Amanda shares her favourite regional place—her own chicken farm, where she loves experiencing the surrounding wildlife and natural environment. In 2022, Amanda joined the teaching profession and shares what inspired her career shift. Amanda takes us inside Seymour College's 15-acre agricultural campus and the school's growing agriculture program. Passionate about inspiring the next generation, Amanda explains the philosophy behind her mantra, "You can't be what you can't see." She shares some of her students' experiences and how early exposure to agriculture can influence future career paths. Amanda discusses how city schools can connect with agricultural schools to give students greater exposure to the industry. The challenges students face accessing agricultural education early, and Amanda's push for greater opportunities and a dedicated agricultural high school in Victoria. From growing vegetables to creating meal packs, Amanda shares some of the practical agricultural experiences happening at the school. Amanda offers advice for city schools wanting to incorporate meaningful agricultural education into their classrooms. Amanda shares Seymour College's involvement in the National Ag Day campaign and a simple soil-health experiment that can introduce agriculture into any classroom. Amanda shares what she loves most about teaching—seeing students' eyes light up and watching their perceptions of agriculture change. She reflects on common misconceptions students have about agriculture, as well as some of the assumptions she held herself. One of the most unexpected parts of Amanda's journey has been the conversations she's had and the connections she's made along the way. Looking to the future, Amanda hopes the work extends beyond herself and Seymour College, with the ultimate dream of a dedicated agricultural school in Victoria. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.   Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram      Seymour College Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn   Produced by Pretty Podcasts

  2. Aug 29

    S5 Ep 18 - Apple Farmer In Orange

    From broadacre cropping to running a lamb enterprise, and then a sharp turn into owning an apple orchard. Experiences that sharpened skills in leadership, technology and business management for my guest today. Problem solving is one common thread in agriculture no matter what food or fibre you produce. So, to learn more about the fruit business, Iain McLennan who has joined his family in an apple orchard called 'St Albans' in Orange as farm manager joins me now. Iain shares his favourite place on the property, overlooking one of the dams where it feels like you're in the middle of nowhere. Change is on the way as Iain leads a major redevelopment of the orchard, focused on both improvement and expansion. After working as an agronomist and running a lamb enterprise, Iain shares what it has been like making the significant shift into orchard management. He explains what prompted his decision to return to the family orchard. Problem solving was one of the things Iain loved most about agronomy, and he shares how those skills continue to serve him in the orchard. Through his Nuffield Scholarship, Iain explored sustainability best practices and shares some of his observations from Australia and overseas. He discusses Australian Carbon Credit Units and how current restrictions can exclude established orchards despite their potential for significant carbon capture. Iain shares some of the trials underway at St Albans, including cover crops, different mowing techniques, compost and mulching. He shares what he loves most about life on the land. Iain addresses some of the common misconceptions about the apple and orchard industry. One of the most unexpected outcomes of his Nuffield Scholarship was the incredible network of people he gained along the way. Iain's ultimate goal for the future is to spend more time working on the business rather than being caught up in the day-to-day operations. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus. Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram    Follow @apple_farmer_in_orange on Instagram

  3. Aug 15

    S5 Ep 17 - Chillakerup Farms

    Positioned in a unique part of the world in WA's Frankland River, the outlook on life is a little different. With around 600 mm annual rainfall, there's a lot of optimism on this farm. An 80/20 cropping sheep split has the property expanding rapidly. And at the helm, alongside his brother, is Samuel Beech, who has not long returned from a trip to China on a wool tour with other Australian farmers. To learn more Samuel Beech of Chillakerup Farms joins me now. Samuel shares his favourite place on the farm and why the open space and natural beauty give him room to think and reflect. He explains what makes his part of Western Australia unique and why consistent rainfall gives him plenty of reason to feel optimistic about farming there. With an 80/20 split between cropping and sheep, Samuel explains how available land, efficiency and regularly doing the maths shape that balance. Samuel discusses succession, his father's approach to involving the next generation and the family's appetite for expanding the business. He shares how genetics, stocking rates and rotational grazing are helping improve productivity across the farm. Growing as much grass as possible sounds simple, but Samuel explains how seasonal seeding and closely monitoring feed demands make it work. Samuel explains his late lambing strategy, the role of feedlots and why this system works for their operation. He takes us through the farm's tile drainage system and how it is helping create more consistent, uniform paddocks. Following a recent trip to China with other Australian growers, Samuel shares his observations and key takeaways. Samuel shares what he loves most about life on the land, from working in nature every day to knowing he was always destined to return to the country. He addresses the misconception that farmers don't care for the land and why he believes this perception is beginning to change. One of the most unexpected parts of farming for Samuel has been how much he values the people and staff he works alongside. Looking ahead, Samuel shares his dream of building a healthy, strong and secure farming business for the future. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.   Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram  Follow @chillakerupfarms on Instagram      Produced by Pretty Podcasts

  4. Aug 1

    S5 Ep 16 - Going Bananas

    When you know even from childhood, that you're going to be farmer – it takes a lot of courage to leave the family property. From boarding school to university and even a career as a spacecraft engineer that takes you around the world. My guest knew that despite all that, he would return to life as a banana grower in North Queensland. Mark Nucifora of Fiorito Bananas joins me now. Mark shares his favourite place on the family farm and what makes Innisfail and North Queensland so unique. Even as a boy, Mark knew farming was his path, and he reflects on finally returning to the life he always planned. Before coming home, he built a career as a spacecraft engineer, working in Sydney, Los Angeles and China. Mark explains why family, the future of the farm and a greater sense of purpose ultimately drew him back. He shares how his engineering background has shaped his approach to farming and helped the business adapt to new challenges. Now the third generation on the property, Mark and his wife are continuing the family legacy while raising their own children on the farm. He reflects on watching his father and grandfather transform swamp land into a productive farm through innovation and determination. Mark discusses the challenges of farming in North Queensland, including cyclones and losing an estimated 90 per cent of his crop in 2021. He explains what it takes to supply Australia's major supermarkets and the standards required to consistently produce quality fruit. Mark shares what he loves most about farming—from the challenge of working with nature and producing food for Australian families to the vital role seasonal workers play in helping Australian agriculture thrive.  He addresses common misconceptions about farming and how the actions of a few can shape public perception of the industry. One of the most unexpected parts of farming has been the friendships and strong sense of community he has found. Looking ahead, Mark shares his dream for the future and his philosophy for living a happy and fulfilling life. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus. Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram        Produced by Pretty Podcasts

  5. Jul 18

    S5 Ep 15 - Caitlin's Classroom

    Having a good teacher can no doubt shape your life. For some, a great teacher can also inspire the student to become the master. Being an educator in a rural setting is a unique experience from multiple placements, community collaboration and site visits. And what's even more wonderful, is there's a chance to really see your students soar. To learn more, Caitlin Crowe is Head of Department Agriculture at St George State High School, and she joins me now.  Caitlin reflects on the many regional communities she has lived and worked in throughout her career, sharing the places that have left a lasting impression and why they hold a special place in her heart. Having always loved working with young people, Caitlin explains what inspired her to pursue a career in teaching and why it continues to be such a rewarding profession. She outlines her current role, overseeing a range of agricultural education initiatives, including school agriculture programs, camps and the Blue Light Shearing Program. Caitlin discusses the impact of initiatives such as the Blue Light Shearing Competition and the AWE Emerging Careers Camps in inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders. Since 2023, these programs have supported more than 285 students, and Caitlin explains how they are helping address workforce shortages and create pathways into the agricultural industry. She shares the career opportunities attracting young people today and explores how technology is shaping the future of agriculture. Caitlin also explains how innovative tools, including iFarm technology, are enhancing agricultural education and engaging students in new ways. As a finalist for the prestigious Zanda McDonald Award, Caitlin reflects on what the recognition meant to her and the opportunities it has created across the trans-Tasman agricultural sector. She shares how her journey as a primary school teacher evolved into leading agricultural education initiatives and the overwhelmingly positive response these programs have received from the community. Caitlin explains that what she loves most about contributing to agriculture is seeing communities, schools and students come together to strengthen the future of the industry. One of the most unexpected moments in her journey was shearing her very first sheep, an experience that sparked opportunities she never imagined. Caitlin addresses the common misconception that teachers only work within the classroom, highlighting the many ways educators can make a lasting impact beyond school grounds. Looking ahead, Caitlin shares her ultimate dream for the future and her hopes for the next generation of Australia's agricultural industry. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.  Links:  Angie Asimus Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram  Partnered with Australian Farmers   Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram       Bluelight Shearing Competition   Produced by Pretty Podcasts

  6. Jul 4

    S5 Ep 14 - Merced Farming

    Born and raised on the family farm, my guest today has chosen to make a life back where it all started in Wee Waa NSW. After studying and a corporate career, turns out there was no place like home after all. From cattle, to corn, to cotton, he's passionate about sustainability and biodiversity, interests that earned him the Nuffield Scholarship in 2017 and more recently, he became the Chair of the Lower Namoi Cotton Growers Association. To learn more, Daniel Kahl of Merced Farming, joins me now. Daniel shares his favourite place on the family farm, reflecting on what makes it so special after growing up there and now helping lead the business. Although he left the farm to study Commerce and work as a cotton merchant, Daniel explains how agriculture was always his passion and how those experiences shaped his career. As Business Manager of Merced Farming, Daniel discusses his role overseeing the day-to-day operations and the strategic direction of the family enterprise. With a diverse food and fibre operation, Daniel takes us through the business, which includes around 300 Angus cattle, along with corn, wheat, beans and cotton as the primary crop. He explains the farm's irrigation system and the transition to groundwater irrigation, highlighting the role water management plays in the business. Daniel shares how Merced Farming is embracing sustainability through initiatives including annual carbon audits, biodiversity projects and continual environmental improvements. Awarded a Nuffield Scholarship in 2017, Daniel reflects on the knowledge, global experiences and lifelong networks the scholarship has provided, and why those connections remain so valuable today. He shares what he loves most about life on the land—the constant mental stimulation of farming, balanced by the slower moments that make the lifestyle so rewarding. Daniel addresses some of the most common misconceptions surrounding agriculture, particularly Australia's cotton industry. One of the biggest surprises in Daniel's career has been discovering the many different products and industries his cotton ultimately becomes part of. Looking ahead, Daniel shares his vision for the future of the business and the legacy he hopes to leave for the next generation. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.   Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram    Merced Farming Follow @mercedfarming on Instagram     Produced by Pretty Podcasts

  7. Jun 20

    S5 Ep 13 - Business with Brooke

    A childhood on the family farm in Central West NSW is where a fearless agribusiness woman was born. Whether her clients are looking for storytelling strategy, or systems – Brooke Watts is helping rural organisations and communities to realise their dreams. Whether it be on the speaking circuit, running workshops or youth programs, she is passionate about enriching the future of agriculture. To learn more, founder of Business with Brooke, Brooke Watts joins me now. Brooke shares some of her favourite places in country Australia, from her family farm to the many regional communities she has visited throughout her career, and explains why wide-open spaces will always hold a special place in her heart. Growing up on a farm shaped Brooke in ways she didn't fully appreciate at the time, and she reflects on the journey that ultimately led her back to the land.  Brooke explains how she launched Business with Brooke and the work she does through workshops, consulting, and capacity-building programs designed to support regional businesses. She shares the story behind her brand, including the courage it took to step into a full-time business role and pursue a career helping others bring their ideas to life. Having worked with a diverse range of rural communities, Brooke discusses the lessons she has learned and the common thread that makes regional Australia so special — its people. Brooke highlights the many opportunities available to the next generation considering a career in agriculture and regional industries, and the importance of helping young people understand the pathways open to them. She shares what she loves most about contributing to the agricultural sector and supporting the growth of regional communities. Brooke addresses common misconceptions about regional careers, including the belief that agriculture is an industry you must be born into, and explains why there is so much room for innovation and new ideas. She reflects on some of the most unexpected moments and successes since launching Business with Brooke. Looking ahead, Brooke shares her ultimate dream for the future and the impact she hopes to continue making across regional Australia. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus. Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram    Connect with Brooke on Instagram Business with Brooke   Produced by Pretty Podcasts

  8. Jun 6

    S5 Ep 12 - Land in Safe Hands

    The United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. So we've chosen someone whose passion for agriculture started at a very young age on her family's grazing property in Queensland. She's turned that passion into a career with a focus on exceptional land management. To further her skills in the area, she's currently completing her PhD. To learn more about her varied agricultural career and her passion for horse-riding,  Ang Hammond joins me now. Ang reflects on growing up on a grazing property and shares some of her favourite places and memories from a life deeply connected to the land. Agriculture was always part of Ang's world, and she speaks about the strong sense of community within the industry and the lifelong relationships she has built along the way. She shares fond memories of life in Lightning Ridge, including the unique multicultural community that made such a lasting impression and continues to draw her back. Determined to forge an independent career in agriculture, Ang spent five years riding racehorses before completing her studies and discovering her true passion within the industry. Ang discusses how inheritance was traditionally passed through the male line and reflects on how she challenged those expectations and carved out her own path. She explores the important connection between land stewardship and mainstream agriculture, and why both must work hand in hand for the future of farming. Working with Landcare Australia, Ang describes the role as feeling like "coming home" and explains why the work is so personally meaningful. Ang shares her involvement in industry research projects funded by the Federal Government and the key learnings she has taken from that work. She discusses the changes currently being implemented across the agricultural sector and the positive impact they are having on farming landscapes and sustainability. On a personal note, Ang reveals plans for an upcoming horse-riding adventure through Argentina with her husband. For Ang, the best part of life on the land has always been the people and the communities that make the industry so special. One of the most unexpected changes she has witnessed throughout her career has been the growing number of young women entering the agricultural industry. Ang addresses common misconceptions about women in agriculture and shares the changes she believes are still needed across the sector. Looking ahead, Ang shares her ultimate dream for the future and her hopes for the next generation in agriculture. We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus. Links: Angie Asimus  Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram Partnered with Australian Farmers  Follow @australianfarmers on Instagram      Landcare Australia  Facebook @landcareaustralia  Instagram @landcareaustralia X @ LandcareAust LinkedIn @LandcareAustralia Connect with Angela Hammond on LinkedIn       Produced by Pretty Podcasts

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About

Australian Farmers: Telling Our Story is hosted by television presenter and journalist, Angie Asimus and is powered by the National Farmers Federation. It's dedicated to connecting our wonderful farmers with health conscious consumers and ethically minded shoppers. Together, we can all learn more about the food we eat and the fibre we wear. This is your exclusive look behind the farm gate. As a country girl herself, Angie knows you'll love what you hear. From the freshest produce, to carbon neutral wool. What about female shearers and farms that give more to the land than they take in the battle against climate change? Is it possible to drought and flood proof your business through diversification so prices don't fluctuate so much at the supermarket? We tackle the most common misconceptions about life on the land and have many laughs along the way with some of the most memorable characters you could ever meet. Partnered with Australian Farmers - https://farmers.org.au/

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