After working in animal health and bio-security, my guest today earned her place as Chief Executive Officer of Sheep Producers Australia at the age of 31. A role that has seen her travel the country – networking with everyone from farmers, to industry partners and government. She's passionate about shaping the future of the sheep industry in this country and she's optimistic about it. To learn more, Bonnie Skinner joins me now.
- Bonnie reflects family trips to the country and the impact they had on her early connection to agriculture. With her role taking her across the country, Bonnie shares the part of regional Australia that holds a special place for her. From an early interest in horses and animal science to animal health and biosecurity, Bonnie shares the career path that ultimately led her into the agricultural industry. As CEO of Sheep Producers Australia, Bonnie takes us inside her role and the challenge of balancing immediate industry issues with longer-term priorities. Bonnie discusses the Future Flock Strategy, why the sheep industry is at a turning point and the importance of rebuilding confidence in its future. She shares some of the key challenges currently facing the sheep industry, including export and import issues and public perceptions of agriculture. Looking ahead, Bonnie discusses the next generation coming through the industry and the importance of creating opportunities for them to shape its future. Bonnie shares what she loves most about working in agriculture—the people, the problem-solvers and those driving change across the industry. Becoming CEO of Sheep Producers Australia was one of the most unexpected developments in Bonnie's career. Bonnie reflects on public misconceptions about agriculture and the opportunity the industry has to help change them. Her ultimate dream for the future of the sheep industry is simple: to stop surviving and start thriving.
We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.
Links:
Angie Asimus
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The Future Flock Strategy
Sheep Producers Australia