What happens when someone knows their farm business needs to change, but keeps second-guessing the next step? Having the knowledge is one thing. Feeling confident enough to start a difficult conversation or back a decision can be another.
Often, taking that next step involves other people. It might mean working through a disagreement, asking for advice or getting others on board with a new approach. Being able to communicate clearly and understand another person’s perspective can help make those conversations more productive, even when there are no easy answers.
That is why QFVG’s Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP) supports confidence and leadership training alongside individual business planning and advice. Preparing for change means developing the skills to put plans into action, including the confidence to speak up, work through challenges and make decisions.
Finding time to develop those skills can be difficult when farm responsibilities compete with other work and personal commitments. Opportunities close to home can make it easier, bringing people together to learn alongside others who understand the demands of farming.
In Tully, that was the thinking behind Cultivating Confidence, a one-day workshop for women in agriculture delivered through a partnership between Tully Women in Agriculture and FBRP.
“The mission of Tully Women in Agriculture is to help women to connect and grow,” said committee member Jenny Crema.
Led by leadership coach and 2020 Nuffield Scholar Tammy Kruckow, who has an extensive farming background, the workshop explored how understanding ourselves can help us work better with others. Through practical activities and group discussions, participants identified their strengths and considered how different personality styles influence communication. This gave them a starting point for understanding another person’s perspective and approaching challenging conversations.
Participants reported increased confidence in communicating, having difficult conversations and making decisions. For QFVG Farm Business Resilience Facilitator Sarah Reynolds, who participated in the workshop, it was also a reminder to trust her own abilities.
“I came away with a greater appreciation of my own capabilities and the importance of trusting my judgement,” Sarah said.
Tully Women in Agriculture committee member Jenny Crema said the feedback highlighted the value of making leadership development accessible to women in the region.
“The opportunity to access a quality workshop with a highly accomplished facilitator in a local setting was highly valued by participants,” Jenny said.
“The event generated very positive feedback that highlighted the strong interest among local women in future leadership development opportunities.”
That feedback helps guide what comes next. FBRP will keep working with growers and local partners to understand where support is needed and connect people with relevant advice and learning opportunities. The aim is to help growers move from knowing what needs to change to feeling ready to take the next step.
To find out how FBRP can support your farm business, visit qfvg.com.au/fbrp and get in touch with your local facilitator.
The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government's Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.
