A Friend of Mine by OAK Magazine

Celebrating National Ag Day, we're joined by two guests shaping the future of Australian agriculture. 

Amanda Naish, founder of Australian Future Farmers Exchange, shares her mission to empower the next generation of farmers through education and opportunity. She highlights the alarming statistic of the average age of farmers in Australia and the need to encourage young people to return to farming. Amanda shares her journey in agriculture, the challenges young farmers face, and the misconceptions surrounding the industry. We also cover the diverse pathways available in agriculture and the supportive community that exists within the field.

And Tegan Milne, a solicitor specialising in commercial and succession planning at Beck Legal, delves into the critical topic of succession planning in agriculture, highlighting its importance for family farms. Tegan explains the nuances of succession planning, emphasising the need for early discussions among family members to avoid disputes later. We also touch on the challenges faced by farmers, the resilience required in the industry, and the collaborative nature of planning for the future of farming businesses.

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

Celebrating National Ag Day, Ruby Canning from Mavstar Photography shares her deep connection to agriculture, her journey as a livestock photographer, and the significance of National Ag Day. She reflects on her cherished cow Dakota, her diverse agricultural background, and the importance of family values in her life. Ruby emphasises the need for greater understanding and support for farmers, encouraging listeners to appreciate where their food comes from and to engage with their local agricultural communities. The discussion also touches on the mental health aspects of farming and the importance of fostering connections within the agricultural sector.

• Ruby Canning emphasises the significance of National Ag Day in sharing farmers' stories and their dedication to feeding the world.
• Growing up with livestock, Ruby shares how her beloved cow Dakota symbolises family and agricultural legacy.
• Ruby's photography business focuses on capturing the essence of livestock, supporting farmers in marketing their cattle.
• The importance of building relationships in agriculture is highlighted as key to success in Ruby's photography career.
• Education about where food comes from is crucial; Ruby encourages consumers to connect with local farmers.
• Mental health awareness in the farming community is vital, and simple conversations can make a difference.

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

She Makes News is a podcast proudly produced by OAK Magazine

Welcome to your weekly news wrap up for regional women in Australia. It's Friday 8 November 2024.

Let’s check up on some news headlines with our sponsor PAEDS Education - your go-to for life-saving knowledge in rural families.

Featuring Australian Women in Agriculture, Womn-Kind, The Sisterhood Project and CPR Kids, Samantha Wills event in Bendigo, Your Soundtrack to the Outback, plus more.

And with Black Friday coming up, there’s buzz about how small businesses are choosing to approach it. Some are going all in, while others are opting out. Two small business owners share their take on Black Friday sales in Australia.

If you'd like to share your news or leave us an audio message, use our new audio message feature. Tell us in detail about your event. We can then use your audio quotes in a news bulletin or use the information as part of our news snippets. https://speak-to.us/shemakesnews

• Australian Women in Agriculture - https://events.humanitix.com/women-on-ag-boards-live-zoom-with-cathy-mcgowan-and-narelle-hooper
• The Sisterhood Project - https://www.thesisterhoodproject.com.au/
• Womn-Kind - www.womn-kind.com.au/applynow
• Rural Mind Matters - https://eap.regenerativepsychology.com.au/
• Samantha Wills event - https://oakmagazine.com.au/products/women-in-business-event-bendigo
• Your Soundtrack to the Outback - https://www.philanthropy.org.au/news-and-stories/road-to-success-innovative-musicnt-puts-territory-musicians-on-the-map/

That’s your weekly wrap up for regional women. Stay informed. Stay Connected. Follow us on social media @shemakesnews or email [email protected]

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

She Makes News is a podcast proudly produced by OAK Magazine

Welcome to your weekly news wrap up for regional women in Australia. It's Friday 1 November 2024.

Making news this week:

• Sarah Duncanson from PAEDS has just launched a new podcast in collaboration with Penny Blunden from Sick Happens. Prepared Not Scared was created to offer support and clear guidance for managing children’s everyday illnesses and injuries—without the fear factor.
• Geelong’s Bec Connolly, founder of Botanicals by Luxe, has been named among Australia's top business leaders receiving a Business Elite’s 40 under 40 award. 
• Plus more news snippets

If you'd like to share your news or leave us an audio message, use our new audio message feature. Tell us in detail about your event. We can then use your audio quotes in a news bulletin or use the information as part of our news snippets. https://speak-to.us/shemakesnews

• PAEDS Education - https://learning.paeds.education/home
• Sick Happens - https://www.sickhappens.com.au/
• Botanicals by Luxe - https://botanicalsbyluxe.com.au/
• GRO Rural - https://grorural.com.au/
• Wander Into Wildness - https://www.wanderintowildness.com.au/sound-healing-events-victoria/treasure-map-wellbeing-in-business-workshop

That’s your weekly wrap up for regional women. Stay informed. Stay Connected. Follow us on social media @shemakesnews or email [email protected]

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

This special A Friend of Mine episode is a live roving interview from the 45th Murrumbateman Field Days – a testament to the power of community support and collaboration. More than just a showcase of agricultural innovation and local craftsmanship, the field days brings together people from across the region, reinforcing the strong ties that bind the community.

Held on October 19 and 20, the Field Days offers everything from advanced farming equipment to locally produced goods, all set in a relaxed, family-friendly environment that embodies the spirit of Murrumbateman. 

Murrumbateman is a town in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales. It is on the Barton Highway, about 30 kilometres north-west of Canberra, and is part of the Yass Valley Shire. 

Surrounded by rolling green vineyards in the heart of cool climate wine country, the Murrumbateman region is home to 20 world-class boutique wineries.

At times you will hear the sounds of our surroundings whether it's some of the 15,000 people in attendance, machinery, carnival rides, livestock, or even a helicopter. These sounds make it seem like you’re standing right there with us, sharing a quick catch-up.

Meet our four special guests.

Jess Templeton from The Rural Nursery shares her journey from childhood weekends spent in her parents' rural supply store to launching her own plant business, highlighting the importance of family support and passion for gardening. Her mother, Julieanne Pascoe, reflects on the challenges and rewards of integrating their children into the family business Murrumbateman Rural Supplies, recognising how their involvement has helped shape their work ethic and community ties. 

Fiona Kildey from Polaris Canberra celebrates her 16th Murrumbateman Field Days. Fiona discusses how engaging with the community has been a cornerstone of her business philosophy. She highlights the importance of creating connections with customers and other businesses, emphasising that success comes from collaboration rather than competition. 

Steph McCall from the Murrumbateman Community Association discusses her journey from the Middle East to becoming an integral part of the local volunteer scene, showcasing the collective effort that brings the community together. 

• Jess's journey into running The Rural Nursery stems from her family's rural background and love for plants.
• Growing up in a family business environment shaped Jess's understanding of hard work and community.
• Community support and volunteering are vital for the success and growth of rural towns.
• Fiona emphasises the importance of treating customers and staff with respect and kindness.
• Steph's involvement in the Murrumbateman Community Association highlights the value of local engagement and collaboration.
• The future of Murrumbateman lies in balancing growth with maintaining its unique rural charm.

Murrumbateman Field Days - https://mfdays.com/

The Rural Nursery + Murrumbateman Rural Supplies https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057278897124

Polaris Canberra - https://www.polariscanberra.com.au/

Murrumbateman Community Association - https://murrumbateman.org.au/

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

This special A Friend of Mine episode is a live roving interview from the 45th Murrumbateman Field Days – a testament to the power of community support and collaboration. More than just a showcase of agricultural innovation and local craftsmanship, the field days brings together people from across the region, reinforcing the strong ties that bind the community.

Held on October 19 and 20, the Field Days offers everything from advanced farming equipment to locally produced goods, all set in a relaxed, family-friendly environment that embodies the spirit of Murrumbateman. 

Murrumbateman is a town in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales. It is on the Barton Highway, about 30 kilometres north-west of Canberra, and is part of the Yass Valley Shire. 

Surrounded by rolling green vineyards in the heart of cool climate wine country, the Murrumbateman region is home to 20 world-class boutique wineries.

At times you will hear the sounds of our surroundings whether it's some of the 15,000 people in attendance, machinery, carnival rides, livestock, or even a helicopter. These sounds make it seem like you’re standing right there with us, sharing a quick catch-up.

Meet our three special guests.

Stephanie Helm from The Vintner's Daughter shares her journey of blending tradition with innovation in winemaking, emphasising the importance of collaboration among women in agriculture. In pursuit of adopting more organic vineyard practices, Stephanie and her husband Ben are breeding a flock of Babydoll sheep that can graze through the vineyards year round.

Jennie Curtis from Roogulli Farm introduces us to the charming Babydoll sheep that are perfect for small farms, vineyards and orchards. Jennie has transitioned from landscape architect to fostering cooperation within the sheep breeding community and is president of the Babydoll Sheep Breeders Australia.

Leonie Waldock from Vineyard 1207 reflects on her transition from education to winemaking, highlighting the challenges and joys of running a boutique winery. She talks about the importance of diversifying income streams in the wine industry.

Murrumbateman Field Days - https://mfdays.com/

The Vintners Daughter - https://thevintnersdaughter.com.au/

Roogulli Farm - https://www.roogulli.com/

Vineyard 1207 - https://www.vineyard1207.com.au/

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

Instant Connection is a special segment of A Friend of Mine podcast, bringing you unplanned, yet meaningful conversations with remarkable women from regional and rural Australia. In these brief but powerful episodes, host Kimberley Furness dives into candid moments and unscripted insights that shine a light on authenticity, resilience and the beauty of real-time connection. Perfect for listeners looking for quick inspiration, Instant Connection delivers insightful snapshots that resonate and inspire—no script, just pure connection.

I was recently presenting workshops at the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering in Harden Murrumburrah. As part of the workshop, I invited attendees to take the microphone and be part of a mock podcast interview. 

OAK is all about amplifying women's voices and helping them gain the confidence to speak up and share their unique stories. Opportunities like these – where women can practice, get feedback, and feel supported – are rare, and it's a privilege to create that space for them.

This interview was too good to not publish. In this special, very short episode, Sharlee Cassidy shares a little insight into launching Windalee Flower Farm in the scenic Yass Valley.

Keep in mind, there was minimal prepping on both sides of the microphone, and unfortunately, we only had a small window of time.

Also mentioned in this episode...

Windalee Flower Farm - https://www.instagram.com/windaleeflower/ https://www.facebook.com/WindaleeFlowers/

Floret Flowers - https://www.floretflowers.com/

Merchant Campbell - https://www.facebook.com/merchantcampbell

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

She Makes News is a podcast proudly produced by OAK Magazine

Welcome to your weekly news wrap up for regional women in Australia. It's Friday 25 October 2024.

If you'd like to share your news or leave us an audio message, use the new She Makes News audio message feature. Tell us in as much detail about your event. We can then use your audio quotes in a news bulletin or use the information as part of our news snippets. https://speak-to.us/shemakesnews

• Pink Paddock Store - https://www.pinkpaddockstore.com.au/
• Mr Johnson's Farm - https://www.mrjohnsonsfarm.com.au
• The Connection Table - https://theconnectiontable.com/
• Big Fish, Little Place - https://open.spotify.com/show/5iHm1dH62Njz0Jsvzqcqax
• Aboriginal Business Roundtable - www.nswabr.com.au
• Samantha Wills Event - https://oakmagazine.com.au/products/women-in-business-event-bendigo
• The Sisterhood Project - https://www.thesisterhoodproject.com.au/
• Ladbroken Distillery - https://ladbroken.com.au/
• Matrescence Co baby expo - https://www.matrescenceco.com.au/

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

This is a special episode to celebrate International Rural Women's Day. This is a day to honour the incredible strength, resilience, and creativity of women in rural communities across Australia. 

We asked some of our OAK community to share their thoughts and stories about what this day means to them—and today, you’ll hear their voices, their reflections and their celebrations.

Mind Stretchers - https://www.mindstretchers.com.au/

Home Education Rural and Remote Discussion - https://www.homeschoolhotline.com.au/

Jess Keeli Creative - https://jesskeelicreative.com/

Enviro EDU - https://www.enviroedu.com.au/

Urthly Organics - https://urthlyorganics.com.au/

Bush Biz Boost - https://bushbizboost.com.au/

Hannah McNulty Creative - https://www.hannahmcnulty.com.au/

OAK Instagram post - https://www.instagram.com/p/DBHgWuTT8Km/

Instagram accounts mentioned - Rupanyup Living, Malmaison, Mimosa Botanicals, Gingerhouse Photography, Castlemaine Fine Biscuit Co, Taradale Wines, Country Mile, Design Detail and Kate Inglish Designs.

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.

She Makes News is a podcast proudly produced by OAK Magazine

Welcome to your weekly news wrap up for regional women in Australia. It's Friday 11 October 2024.

Making news this week:

• Rural psychologist Steph Schmidt highlights the importance of ongoing mental health conversations and proactive mental fitness, especially for farmers facing financial and emotional strain.
• As Rural Women’s Day approaches, Jillina Whittaker, founder of Home Education Rural and Remote Discussion (HERRD), is ensuring rural mothers in remote areas have the support and connection they need through two special virtual events.
• It’s been said that 19-year-old Annabelle Price from rural Victoria is the first female in Australia to obtain the new agricultural telehandler licence. 
• Plus more news snippets

Takeaways:

• Mental health awareness must continue beyond World Mental Health Day to truly support individuals.
• Farmers in drought conditions face chronic stress, impacting both mental health and farm productivity.
• Proactive mental fitness is crucial for farmers; it's essential to take daily steps for wellbeing.
• Rural mothers often prioritise their children's needs over their own self-care and wellbeing.
• Homeschooling provides rural families with flexibility and community support, enhancing educational opportunities.

Steph Schmidt - https://www.stephschmidt.com.au/

Home Education Rural and Remote Discussion - https://www.homeschoolhotline.com.au/

Non-slewing telehandler licence - https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/non-slewing-telehandler-licence

Just a Farmer - Impact survey

Womn-Kind - https://www.womn-kind.com.au/

That’s your weekly wrap up for regional women. Stay informed. Stay Connected. Follow us on social media @shemakesnews or email [email protected]

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

Stay social and connect with OAK Magazine on Facebook and Instagram.

For more inspiring stories, visit OAK Magazine website. Hosted by Kimberley Furness, Founder + Editor, OAK Magazine.