In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli heads to the windswept coastline of Seaspray in Gippsland to sit down with first-generation farmer Danna Boulton.Growing up just down the road on her family’s dairy farm, Danna always dreamed of farming - but like many young Australians, the pathway to ownership wasn’t straightforward. After building a career as a teacher, making sacrifices, studying the land market for years, and leaning on the right support networks, she found her opportunity.Today, Danna is three years into running her own beef operation on “the island” at the Honeysuckles - a unique coastal property she now calls home. With support from her family, a rural financial counsellor, her bank, and a RIC AgriStarter Loan, she’s been able to take that leap into ownership and build a business from the ground up.This episode explores patience, persistence, and the reality of doing it on your own - while also highlighting the importance of community, financial support, and backing yourself when the opportunity finally comes. RIC is the Australian Government’s farm business lender providing low-interest loans to help farmers establish a first farm business and support with succession arrangements.Key insights from the conversation:Non-linear pathways into farming and first-generation ownershipThe power of patience and studying the market over timeMaking sacrifices to build a deposit and create opportunityThe role of support networks - family, advisors, and communityUsing finance to reduce pressure and enable sustainable growthLearning to ask for help and manage risk on your ownChapters:00:00 Introduction to Farming Life02:23 Growing Up on a Dairy Farm05:11 Transitioning from Teaching to Farming08:09 Navigating Financial Challenges in Farming10:51 Acquiring Land and Starting a Farm13:59 Support Systems in Farming16:37 Challenges of Solo Farming19:34 Advice for Aspiring Farmers Running a farm business comes with its challenges; from seasonal conditions to rising costs and cash flow uncertainty, there can be many unknowns along the way. Regional Investment Corporation, simply known as RIC, is the Australian Government’s agri-lending specialist, providing low interest loans to help eligible farm businesses navigate challenges. Whether that’s starting out, planning for succession, or managing through tough conditions like drought and natural disasters, RIC helps viable farmers to keep farming. With concessional interest rates, RIC loans can provide valuable breathing space, helping farmers manage cash flow while they get through tough times or to build their business. Every situation is different, so it’s important to understand what support may be available and what’s involved before applying. Visit ric.gov.au to learn more, explore your options, and check your eligibility.