Rachael farms in Southern NSW and today shares her incredibly difficult experience following the milk crash and clawback in 2016 and how it drastically changed their farming system. Alongside partner Craig they had to make decisions and make them quick, including downsizing the herd and reducing the staff to ensure the farm could trade their way out of debt, and whilst it has taken them plenty of blood, sweat and tears they have done just that!

In this chat Rachael openly shares about the relationships with their consultant and creditors and how creating the $500 dollar club ensured everyone was paid, even in the depth of their financial crisis. She shares personal reflections on the impact it had on the community, their family and themselves, providing incredibly valuable insights for anyone facing situations outside of their control such as the clawback or the current drought.

A reminder that this is all general conversation and not specific financial advice, so if you are in severe financial hardship please know you aren't alone and I encourage you to lean on your support networks within Dairy Australia, your farm consultant or advisors or take advantage of the many rural financial counseling services available and check out the Farm Household Allowance to see if you are eligible, because if you used it as Rachael did in 2016, you're 10 year cycle will have reset and you can once again apply. Use this link to see if you are eligible https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/farm-household-allowance

Dairy Australia Resources https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/issues-and-emergencies/grant-and-support-programs

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CREAM OF THE CROP - TICKETS ON SALE NOW

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. TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!!! Check out Instagram or Facebook or check it out on the Website for all of the details and links to purchase.

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.

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.