In this episode, we chat with Dr. Robert Godfree, Senior Research Scientist and author of Drought Country, about what history can teach us about Australia’s harshest dry spells and how they continue to shape farming and life on the driest inhabited continent on Earth.

Bob shares how his background in forest ecology and a childhood spent on a northern New South Wales farm led him to explore the long arc of drought in Australia, from the settlement drought of the 1790s to the Federation drought and beyond. He explains why cultural memory around drought fades every generation, how lessons are forgotten and relearned, and what this means for farmers preparing for the future.

We also dig into how early settlers and Aboriginal knowledge intersected (and were often lost), how drought shaped Australia’s economy, expansion, and mythos, and why the next frontier of resilience may come from farmers who understand both the lessons of the past and the climate models of the future.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this podcast is general in nature and does not in any way constitute financial, investment, accounting, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult with relevantly qualified and licensed professionals for advice tailored to your specific situation and requirements. The opinions expressed are our own and do not reflect those of our sponsors or any third parties.