Southern Farming Systems was proud to host the inaugural Fields of Future Dinner for the Young Agricultural Professionals (YAPs) network at GMHBA Stadium on Wednesday 14 of August. The fantastic evening was attended by many in the agricultural industry from across the western districts of Victoria, including a representative from Tasmania bring together like-minded young (or young-at-heart!) professionals in the agricultural industry, providing a space to develop connections, network, and socialise. Supported by Southern Farming Systems with funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.

The unseasonably warm weather made for a pleasant evening, with delicious food, flowing drinks, and a lively atmosphere.  Oli Le Lievre, MC for the evening and founder of the Humans of Agriculture podcast, kicked off the event with a warm welcome, setting the tone for the night.

Guest speaker, Rhys Stanley, AFL Footballer for the Geelong Cats, delivered an insightful speech about his career as an AFL footballer and his experiences in farming, highlighting the interactions between the two. Then after dinner, Dr. Elle Moyle joined Oli for a chat, sharing her journey of buying her own farm at just 27, learning to run it, and how her background as a veterinarian has shaped both her farming lifestyle and her role as District Veterinary Officer for Agriculture Victoria. 

Oli then gathered all the guest speaker’s Rhys, Elle, and Scott Chirnside, SFS Chairman of the Board on stage for a Q&A session. The discussion provided valuable insights on how farming has influenced Rhys’ life, enabled Elle to offer more practical advice in her veterinary work, and the importance of engaging young people in agriculture while keeping them passionate and connected. The key takeaway? Enjoy what you do! 

Finally, Malcolm from the Rural Financial Counselling Service delivered an important talk on managing tough times, offering resources for those who might need them, especially given the dry season. 

“The night was a resounding success, made possible by the hard work of the SFS team that truly made the event shine!” said Greta Duff, SFS YAP’s Coordinator.

We look forward to our next YAP’s event. If you’re interested in joining or want to know more about our future activities, visit https://sfs.org.au/project/young-agriculture-professionals-yaps-network or contact

Greta Duff E: gduff@sfs.org.au

 

Top Left Image: Oli Le Lievre kicking off the evening. Photo Source ©Phillip Hatton/Fundamental Events

Image 2: Canapes in the Foyer at GMHBA Stadium Presidents Room. Photo Source ©Phillip Hatton/Fundamental Events

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Image 3: Guest Rhys Stanley, Oli Le Lievre, Elle Moyle & Scott Chirnside SFS Board Chair. Photo Source ©Phillip Hatton/Fundamental Events