Stories from around Australia by the ABC's rural reporters.

Meet the outback gardeners creating colorful oases in the dusty, dry outback landscape; farmers locking up land in conservation trusts; avid spearfisher breaking record after comeback from cancer; three generations of one family sharing love of horses on the polo-cross pitch.

Bush boxing legend Fred Brophy bids goodbye to Birdsville; wildlife cameras giving landholders a look at creatures that call their properties home; lighthouse caretakers reflect on life on tiny, tropical island; hairdresser a hero for remote outback residents.

Retirees picking up the tools to give back to rural communities hit by flooding; dashing through the mud in gumboots for annual community race; reflecting on career change to flower farmer; next generation of butchers keeping traditional business running. 

How cultural burning is helping a rare species of orchid thrive; outback kids writing songs celebrating life in the bush with the help of touring rock band; expanding the growing season for flavoursome fungi.

The volunteers moving mountains to replant native Banksia seeds in fire-affected national park; couple compete in gruelling horse race through Mongolia; strawberry grower reflects on journey from refugee; hatmaker reveals what's involved in restoring a classic Aussie hat.

Reviving an old tradition as cane fires light up Queensland skies; working as a livestock auctioneer a dream come true for Ryan who is on the autism spectrum; outback kids take to the stage to tell local bilby story; months after devastating flooding, communities picking up the pieces in western Queensland.

New rodeo focused on community, not just competition; rookie station hands getting a taste of isolated life working with cattle in the middle of the country; outback pub reopens after six decades; nurseryman cultivating a colourful perennial and bringing it back into public eye.

Chef on a crusade to tackle food waste starting with scraps from local producers; fossil fans uncovering ancient creatures in South Australia's Flinders Ranges; after three months and 770 kilometres epic charity droving trek reaches its destination; thrilling horse race delights fans at outback track.

Backpacker workers keeping critical outback roadhouse running; hunting for truffles on a cold winter's day in Victoria's Strathbogie ranges; beekeepers making creamed honey; fruit farmers become sunflower farmers with fields that spark joy.