Live at 2024 Elmore Field Days

A Friend of Mine by OAK Magazine

This special A Friend of Mine episode is a live roving interview from the 2024 Elmore Field Days - a significant agricultural event teeming with innovation and community spirit. Over three days, tens of thousands of visitors are expected through the gates to explore more than 700 exhibitors. At times you will hear the sounds of our surroundings whether it's the chatter of visitors, machinery or perhaps the odd PA announcement. I feel like these sounds make you feel like you’re standing right there with us having a quick catch up.

Through these conversations, this episode showcases the resilience and innovation within the agricultural community, inspiring listeners to appreciate the stories behind the products we consume.

First, we meet Emma Kennedy, who shares the story of how she and her husband launched Kennedy Food Produce amidst the challenges of a drought. Emma's venture into popcorn production not only provided an alternative income stream but also offered an educational experience about the origins of food. Her passion for connecting people to the source of their food is evident as she describes the joy of seeing customers' surprise when they realise popcorn can be freshly made from a cob. Emma's narrative is one of resilience and creativity, showcasing how adversity can lead to innovative solutions.

The episode then shifts focus to the shearing industry, where Kimberley talks with Alice McKay, a young shearer who has traveled the world honing her craft. Alice's journey from a farm in Drummartin, Victoria, to shearing sheds in England and New Zealand highlights the increasing role of women in this traditionally male-dominated field. Her experiences reflect a broader trend of female empowerment in agriculture, inspiring future generations to follow their passions. Alice discusses the physical demands of shearing and the determination required to succeed, emphasising the supportive community that has helped her thrive. Through Alice's story, listeners gain insight into the evolving landscape of the shearing profession and the opportunities it presents for women.

Takeaways:

• Emma and her husband started Kennedy Farm Produce in 2018 as a way to diversify their income during a challenging drought period.
• The Kennedy's unique popcorn product involves cooking the whole corn cob in a brown paper bag in the microwave, providing a healthier snack option.
• Emma emphasises the importance of educating people about where their food comes from, offering an educational angle to her product.
• Alice’s journey into shearing highlights a growing trend of female participation in the traditionally male-dominated field.
• Alice has used her shearing career to travel internationally, including working in England and New Zealand, showcasing the opportunities shearing provides.
• The Elmore Field Days event offers a vibrant community atmosphere where small businesses can showcase their products and network with others.

ABOUT OAK MAGAZINE

This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.