Should you join a farmer representation group? Rebecca Reardon, NSW Farmers

“If farmers don’t have a voice, they’ll be dealt a poorer hand.” That’s the simple mantra that motivates Rebecca Reardon to be involved in advocacy with NSW Farmers.Rebecca is a mixed farmer from Moree in NSW, an agricultural economist, board director and Vice President of NSW Farmers.Her path into agricultural leadership wasn’t linear. After 20 years working post–farm gate in the grains industry, including stepping into a CEO role during one of the most personally challenging periods of her life, she made the conscious decision to step back and prioritise family when one of her children became seriously illWhat followed were two phone calls that changed her trajectory; one inviting her onto an industry board, and another encouraging her to join the Grains Committee at NSW Farmers That “gentle push” led her into policy, advocacy and leadership at a state and national level.In this collaboration episode with NSW Farmers, Rebecca reflects candidly on:How family crisis reshaped her perspective on leadership and successWhy advocacy isn’t just about what farmer groups win; but what they stopHow NSW Farmers develops grassroots policy through branches, committees and annual conferenceThe mounting pressures facing agriculture; from telecommunications and biosecurity to land tax, diesel rebates, insurance and renewablesThe widening city–country divide and the fight to maintain farming’s social licenceWhy we need more women and more young farmers stepping into advocacy rolesIf you’ve ever thought about getting involved, but worried you didn’t know enough, weren’t qualified, or might upset someone… this episode is your nudge.Learn more about NSW Farmers or become a member HERESend us Fan MailThis is a Rural Podcasting Co. production. Interested in making your own podcast? Let us help you tell your own story!