Episode 151 - Bringing Young, Passionate Talent onto Your Farm, with Chloe Smart-AgCareerStarts

We all have a role to play in inspiring our next generation of farmers – now there is a compelling program and pathway to make this happen.

In this episode, Hutch speaks with Chloe Smart, Training and Career Development Coordinator at AgCareerStarts. As Chloe explains, AgCareerStarts provides on-farm employment opportunities for 17 to 24 year olds interested in pursuing a career in agriculture. Backed by the National Farmers Federation (NFF), the initiative provides the link between a recent school leaver or ag college/university graduate with a professional farm business owner, keen to nominate themselves as an AgCareerStarts Host Farmer.

In addition, we speak with Host Farmer Simon Cameron, a fine wool merino producer from the Northern Midlands of Tasmania. Simon’s farm, ‘Kingston’ comprises 3125 ha of which about 12% is developed with introduced grasses. The rest is split between lightly timbered bush country and native grasslands. Their wool production is accredited under SustainaWOOL Gold and the Responsible Wool Standard, making Simon a great example of the on-farm opportunities we can create for young people wanting to forge a career in our industry.

Post university, Chloe travelled across Northern SA and Western NSW as a contract musterer and senior station hand on a 280,000-acre Merino Sheep property in Hay, NSW. She understands on-farm roles and the challenges associated with farm life, as well as how difficult it can be for young people to shape their early careers in our industry.

This is an important and highly professional initiative I am only too happy to advocate for.

I commend Chloe and her team and NFF for pioneering this initiative, and congratulate the many host farmers already active in helping our next generation to positively enter our industry.

For more information, click here.

The deadline for applying to secure an AgCareerStarts Team Member for 2025 is Friday 4th October 2024.

I am sure Chloe and her team will be only too happy to speak with you and answer any questions you have.

Thank you, Simon, for sharing your experience, and congratulations to Chloe and your team on the great work that you do!!

Here’s to the next generation!

Jeremy Hutchings & the Farm Owners Academy Team

 P.S. If you're also looking to tackle stress and improve your well-being, our FREE 2024 Edition of The Low-Stress Farmer’s Handbook is now available. Discover essential strategies for reducing stress, avoiding burnout, and building resilience. It's packed with practical advice tailored to farmers' unique challenges. Click here to get your copy now: Download the Handbook.