Jess Armstrong (IG: @jess_armstong434) was raised on a family-owned sheep and cattle station in Far-Western New South Wales, stretching across the saltbush plains. As a School of the Air student, Jess spent time writing out spelling tests on wool bales during shearing and counting lamb tails at lamb marking. This experience is a familiar narrative for many who grew up in the bush—attending boarding school and yearning to return to the farm. Agriculture is deeply embedded in Jess's identity, and she couldn't envision being anywhere else.

Her career has spanned various sectors including Landcare, Hospitality, Rural Merchandise, and Tech-Services in the Northern Territory, New South Wales, and Victoria. In her current role as Community Engagement Officer at Holbrook Landcare Network, Jess works on projects that extend research, resources, and tools to enhance farm management practices. Her efforts focus on improving drought and climate resilience, enhancing productivity, and increasing profitability for farmers.

Outside of work, Jess is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Agricultural Science while eagerly seizing every opportunity to hit the gravel out on the farm.