Amazing Turnout to Hear Stories of Local Young Farmers Who Have Made Their Start.

On the evening of Thursday 23rd May 2024, GLENRAC hosted a panel event at Deepwater Brewing Co, featuring three young farmers sharing their stories and how they got started in the farming game.

Facilitated by the new local Landcare Coordinator, Eliza James, the panel emphasised the importance of nailing the reason they want to farm so they can confidently and competently carry out the "how" of farming.

Lewis Crothers, with a military background, now manages Balaclava in Matheson Valley while overseeing his property near Delungra, focusing on cattle breeding and cropping.

He highlighted the significance of financial scrutiny to ensure investments yield returns.

Lewis's passion for sharing experiences and information fostered a great vibe for the night.

Matt Cumming, hailing from Inverell, shared his transition from the shearing industry to farm labor hire and expanding into his family farming business. His meticulous approach and perseverance inspired the audience.

Sid Brummel, based in Glen Innes, added depth to the discussion with insights into farm succession and diversification, including ventures like Hip Camp and direct-to-market meat sales, aimed at enhancing income streams.

The discussion also covered topics like securing your first lease, communication, technology, fitting family in with running a farm and organisation tactics.

40 people from the Glen Innes catchment attended the evening.

The event was made possible through support from the Young Farmer Business Program.