Ancret Shipton farms in the Bega Valley, not far from where she grew up, but she never envisioned herself as a farmer. That was until she met Michael, who just wanted to be in dairy. Ancret however considered herself the farmers wife; the sounding board, the support and backstop for Michael’s farming dreams. That was until he suddenly passed away after receiving a cancer diagnosis a short 9 weeks earlier that would change their lives forever. 

In this incredibly emotive chat, Ancret shares how they progressed from workers, to sharefarmers and into farm ownership, the grief she has experienced since Michael’s death, the 2 pages of information and 3 pieces of advice he left her with, how she’s managed the farm for the last 4 years with unwavering support from her farming advisors and local community and how she’s dealing with the secondary grief of farming without Michael. We recorded this chat late last year, and since then I’ve often reflected on the resilience Ancret has shown and the many lessons we can all take away from this heartbreaking story, so let’s get into it. 

In the spirit of reconciliation we would like to acknowlegde the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

 

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CREAM OF THE CROP 

Cream of the Crop is a two day conference, providing an opportunity for women in the dairy industry to come together to learn, connect and grow. Recognising the contribution, regardless of their role, they make to the industry and their wider community. Over 110 incredible women joined us in Northern Victoria in 2024, and we are excited to announce we are heading to Warragul in Gippsland on July 29th & 30th 2025. Keep an eye on Instagram  or Facebook   or check it out on the Website for all of the details. 

If you know someone who you think would be great on the podcast, or you would like to share your story, please get in touch by sending an email to [email protected] or stay connected by following us on Instagram or Facebook and send us a message - I'd love to hear from you.