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In the latest episode of Digging Deeper, host Al reflects on a successful first year of podcasts and unveils exciting plans for 2026, including featuring local producers, regular updates from industry experts Chelsea from Herd Solutions and Morgs from Elders. 

Al talks with Morgan Davies about recent cattle and lamb markets, highlighting seasonal trends, strong sales, and challenges. They also discuss the swift community response to recent fire-affected areas, emphasising the importance of support networks in agriculture. Additionally, there are significant updates on the mountain calf sales, including changes in sale dates and locations to improve conditions for buyers and sellers. This episode captures the essence of community resilience, industry updates, and adaptive strategies in agriculture.

00:00 Welcome to 2026: New Beginnings and Gratitude

00:34 Introducing Regular Guests and Updates

01:04 Kicking Off with Morgan Davies

01:39 Market Updates: Cattle Prices and Trends

04:00 Sheep and Lamb Market Insights

08:21 Community Support During Fire Crisis

14:38 Big News: Changes to Mountain Calf Sales

21:24 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode of Digging Deeper for 2026, the discussion features General Manager Jen Smith reflecting on her journey from Melbourne to agriculture, spearheading projects at Gippsland Agricultural Group, and her experiences with bushfires. 

Jen shares insights about her upbringing, educational background in social work, and how she adapted to farming life after marrying Brad Smith. The episode delves into the challenges and strategies of dealing with bushfires, focusing on preparedness, response, and recovery. The conversation also highlights the importance of community support, government grants, and practical farm management during and after fire events. 

Jen emphasises the need for robust infrastructure, effective communication, and mental resilience during critical times.

00:00 Welcome Back to Digging Deeper 2026

00:36 Jen Smith's Early Life and Education

03:01 Meeting Brad and Life in Agriculture

06:02 Jen's Career Journey

09:38 Gippsland Agricultural Group and Future Projects

12:52 Experiences with Bush Fires

21:09 Bushfire Recovery Grant and Infrastructure

21:50 Importance of Efficient Feeding Systems

22:32 Navigating Government Grants

24:15 Pre-Fire Preparedness: Farm, Animals, and People

30:03 During the Fire: Immediate Actions and Strategies

38:26 Post-Fire Recovery: Immediate Steps and Long-Term Planning

42:11 Community-Led Recovery and Support

45:12 Silver Linings and Lessons Learned

46:57 Final Thoughts and Resources

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In this season finale of Digging Deeper, host Alister from the Gippsland Ag Group is joined by Morgan Davies to extend festive wishes and reflect on the year's events in agriculture. They discuss the importance of resilience in farming, updates on cattle and sheep markets, and the impact of the Gippsland Agriculture Group. The episode highlights the recent field day at Mawarra featuring esteemed cattle judge PJ Butler and a panel of industry experts. Morgan and Alister ponder lessons learned over the year, including the critical nature of seasonal changes. They sign off by encouraging listeners to enjoy the festive season and prepare for 2026.

00:00 Introduction to Season Two

00:43 Holiday Greetings and Reflections

03:36 Field Day Highlights and Panel Discussion

06:51 Gippsland Agriculture Group's Impact

12:41 Cattle and Sheep Market Update

16:26 Seasonal Reflections and Farewell

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In this episode of Digging Deeper, host Al welcomes Olivia Betts from Elders Bairnsdale. Olivia discusses her background growing up on a beef farm, her path from taking a gap year to studying agriculture and accounting at university and eventually becoming a leading agronomist at Elders. She shares her experiences, challenges, and the importance of mentorship in her fast-paced role. The episode also dives deep into the topic of Armyworm, including its types, impact on crops, identification, and management strategies, providing valuable insights for local farmers and agronomy enthusiasts.

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Olivia Betts

01:03 Olivia's Background and Early Life

03:11 Career Path and Education

06:27 Role at Elders and Daily Responsibilities

09:37 Challenges and Experiences in Agronomy

11:32 Armyworm: Identification and Management

27:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Digging Deeper, host Alister interviews Justin Dunn, founder and owner of Shepherd Ag Auto Feeders. Justin discusses his transition from being a school principal to becoming an entrepreneur in agriculture technology. He shares his journey from teaching and developing science and technology programs in schools to addressing labour challenges in sheep farming through automated feeding systems. Justin explains the evolution of his products, the importance of automated precision feeding, and the benefits of his innovative feeder systems which have improved efficiency and animal welfare on his farm. He also touches upon the design and operational aspects of his automated systems, the significance of early weaning and rumen development in lambs, and the challenges and solutions around shade systems in feedlots. Justin emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in combining technology with practical farming to enhance productivity and sustainability.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:50 Justin's Journey and Background

01:36 From Teaching to Technology

03:57 Challenges in Sheep Farming

05:26 Innovations in Feeder Systems

07:45 Evolution of Feeder Technology

10:48 Automated Feeding and Water Systems

15:23 Advanced Farming Equipment

18:31 Efficient Sheep Management

25:44 Lambing in Containment: Design and Benefits

27:36 Feeding Strategies for Lambs

28:28 Managing Lamb Health and Nutrition

33:22 Trading and Induction Processes

39:17 Staff and Operations Management

43:47 Innovations and Future Plans

46:22 The Importance of Shade in Feedlots

48:56 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode, Chelsea Hair recounts her harrowing experience of a recent car accident, emphasising the significance of safety and insurance while praising the professionalism of emergency responders. Chelsea also outlines an ongoing livestock project, supported by Meat & Livestock Australia, focusing on post-weaning performance, discussing the methodologies and preliminary findings from different farm management practices. This research aims to enhance the understanding and effectiveness of cattle growth post-weaning. The discussion includes potential future projects and the importance of careful vaccination schedules for optimal animal health. The episode concludes with Chelsea's personal takeaway on the irreplaceability of having a reliable vehicle in rural areas.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:00 Chelsea's Car Accident Story

06:25 Post-Accident Reflections

09:47 Focus on Weighty Wieners Project

17:19 Year Two and Three Plans

24:00 Weaning Practices and Challenges

28:52 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

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In this episode of Digging Deeper, host Al interviews Anthony Snow, a unique thinker in the realms of business and farming. They delve into Anthony's journey from growing up in a turf maintenance family in Bacchus Marsh, to his eventual move to East Gippsland to manage a large-scale turf farm for Lilydale Instant Lawn. Anthony shares his evolution from turf expert to cattle farmer, discussing his current operations under Snow Rural, which focuses on black Angus beef cattle with a mix of breeding and trading. The conversation also explores the impacts of the drought, the importance of efficient management, and the role of technology and budgeting in farming. Besides farming, Anthony talks about his love for music, his history in bands, and nearly touring with John Farnham. The episode highlights lessons on quick decision-making, the value of mentorship, and the significant role of the Gippsland Agriculture Group in transforming the local farming community.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:02 Anthony's Background and Early Life

03:56 Family and Work Ethic

04:47 Children and Future Prospects

06:30 Sarah's Role and Involvement

08:35 Transition to Agriculture

11:01 Turf Business and Challenges

15:13 Move to East Gippsland

20:47 Establishing Snow Rural

26:05 Stored Fodder and Bunkers

26:44 Staff and Work Ethic

29:57 Office Work and Business Management

33:06 Financial Strategies and Budgeting

36:54 Expanding the Farm

39:34 Gippsland Agriculture Group

41:53 Advice for Young Farmers

45:48 Music Career and Personal Interests

50:44 Decision Making in Farming

51:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Digging Deeper, the regular guest Morgan Davies returns to discuss various industry topics with the host. They touch upon Morgan's recent activities, market dynamics in cattle and sheep, and the impacts of recent rain on local agriculture. They also delve into the practices and strategies for livestock trading and highlight the importance of a good relationship between farmers and agents. The episode concludes with a preview of an upcoming event featuring notable speakers from the agriculture industry.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

02:05 Cattle Market Updates

04:47 Sheep Market Insights

06:37 Rain Impact on Crops and Livestock

10:59 Trading Strategies and Agent Relationships

13:02 International Market Trends

16:01 Upcoming Event Announcement

20:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of 'Digging Deeper,' the host welcomes Alison Gunn, the owner of Herd Solutions, who shares insights into her extensive career in veterinary practice and her sustainable farming philosophies. Alison discusses her upbringing in a horticultural family in Kent, England, her determination to become a vet despite societal challenges, and her career journey across the UK and Australia. She highlights the importance of preventive health in veterinary practice and her philosophy of making disease prevention a priority. Alison elaborates on the Victorian Livestock Veterinary Scholarship (VLVS) and its role in supporting new veterinary graduates in regional areas. The conversation covers practical tips for early weaning, feeding strategies during suboptimal seasons, and the intricacies of managing livestock during droughts. Alison also touches on the economic implications of carbon credit investments in farmland. The episode offers a comprehensive look at Alison's contributions to veterinary practice and sustainable farming, providing valuable insights for farmers, vets, and rural communities.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:15 Alison Gunn's Background and Early Life

05:04 Journey to Becoming a Vet

07:54 Philosophy and Work at Herd Solutions

10:19 Challenges and Insights in Veterinary Practice

16:34 Victorian Livestock Veterinary Scholarship

22:54 Underrated Tools and Overrated Treatments

29:00 Suboptimal Seasons and Feed Budgeting

30:12 Forage Reserves and Regional Differences

30:44 Forage Needs for Sheep vs. Cattle

32:13 Nutritional Requirements for Cattle

33:38 Planning and Testing Forage Quality

36:24 Decision Making in Drought Conditions

44:37 Early Weaning and Preg Testing

50:40 Mineral Supplements and Vaccinations

54:35 Sheep Management in Dry Conditions

59:04 Economic Insights from the World Sheep Vet Conference

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In this episode of 'Digging Deeper,' the host welcomes guests Trevor and Trent, who share their experiences at Gippsland Ag and discuss their farming journeys. Trent provides an overview of his extensive background in farming, experiencing life as a jackaroo, and gaining agronomy expertise. The conversation covers decisions made during drought conditions, proactive management strategies, and maintaining mental health. The episode also touches on community support, infrastructure preparation, and valuable farming lessons learned from fieldwork and peer advice.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:58 Trent's Farming Journey

02:32 Life as a Jackaroo

04:48 Return to Family Farm

09:56 Trevor's Insights and Spring Field Day Recap

11:10 Challenges of the Current Season

14:05 Decision Making in Tough Times

18:49 Preparing for Future Droughts

24:39 Mental Health and Community Support

29:00 Final Thoughts and Surprising Learnings