Farmer

Where do you live?

Here, on the farm.

What are some important skills?

Farmers need to have a whole range of skills. We need to have a really good understanding of how the different parts of the growing cycle work together. I monitor the health of soil, take regular soil tests, and have my agronomist come and advise me when I am unsure.I spend a lot of time monitoring the health of the crops and we run a few sheep here. I need to understand sheep nutrition requirements, and look after the sheep to make sure they are healthy.

What is your favourite part of your job?

I get to live and work with my family in a place I love every day. Some days are hard, and some season are harder when the weather isn’t in our favour. But most of the time farming is a very rewarding occupation and lifestyle.

What are the main tools of the trade?

On our property we grow mostly crops, pulses and grains, so our important tools are our machinery. We have tractors, a header, an air seeder and a boom spray but people are our most valuable asset. We have a few casual staff members to help us complete the sowing and harvesting. We also have people come and help with some of the sheep work including shearing.

What training have you had?

I grew up here on the farm and Mum and Dad taught me everything there is to know about the business and what we do. I also completed a Diploma of Agriculture online through Tocal College and that has given me the confidence to change a few farm management practices that I wanted to do differently. You learn something new every day on a farm!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I will be here. Farming might have changed but I will still love it

Trip Preperation. Questions to ask :)

Here are some potential questions learners could ask farmers based on the subtopics:

• Important Skills:
1. What skills do you think are most critical for success as a Farmer?
2. Can you give an example of a time when you had to use a particular skill to overcome a challenge?
3. How do you stay proficient in skills like navigation, communication, and emergency procedures?
• Favourite Part of the Job:
1. What do you enjoy most about being a farmer?
2. Can you describe a particularly memorable season or experience?
3. What makes each season unique and exciting for you?
• Main Tools of the Trade:
1. What technology or equipment do you rely on most in your daily work?
2. Can you explain how you use tools like irrigation systems?
3. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in farming technology?
• Future Career Goals:
1. What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see yourself progressing in the industry?
2. What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in farming?

This section is for the parents:

• Questions to Ask Your Child After a Field Visit:
1. What did you learn or discover during the field visit?
2. What was your favorite part of the trip and why?
3. What surprised you or challenged your thinking?
4. How did the field visit relate to your interests or career goals?
5. What questions do you still have after the visit?
6. How can you apply what you learned to your everyday life or future career?
• Additional Questions:
1. What did you observe or notice about the place or activity?
2. What skills or knowledge did you gain from the experience?
3. How did the field visit change your perspective or understanding of a topic?
4. What would you like to learn more about based on the field visit?
By asking these questions, you can help your child reflect on their experience, solidify their learning, and make connections to their interests and goals.