“We started with two cows… and just saved every dollar we could.” with Brodie Game (RIC Partner episode)
JUN 1, 202633 MIN
“We started with two cows… and just saved every dollar we could.” with Brodie Game (RIC Partner episode)
JUN 1, 202633 MIN
Description
In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli sits down in the paddock with Brodie Game, who shares how she and her husband Kevin went from milking two cows on a travelling stock reserve to building a high-performing dairy business in the Bega Valley.Along the way, they’ve navigated drought, fire, financial constraints - and the reality of being first-generation farmers without a clear roadmap.This episode explores the decisions, risks, and relationships that shaped their journey - and how access to the right finance help such as the RIC at the right time helped accelerate their growth.RIC is the Australian Government’s farm business lender providing low-interest loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses to prepare for, manage through and recover from tough financial times.Key insights from the conversation:First-generation farming and non-traditional pathwaysBuilding a business without owning land initiallyThe role of relationships and reputation in agricultureRisk, resilience, and long-term thinkingUsing finance as a strategic tool - not just survivalChapters:00:00 Introduction to Brodie and Kevin's Journey01:53 The Landscape of Bega Valley03:18 Early Interests in Agriculture04:51 The Path to Dairy Farming06:51 The Love Story and Partnership07:40 Understanding Share Farming09:10 Transitioning to Leasing11:15 The Importance of Networking12:10 Acquiring Their Own Farm14:10 The Role of Community Support15:37 Daily Life on the Farm17:26 Ownership vs. Leasing in Farming19:32 The Value of Dairy Farming20:51 Exploring Ag Tech Innovations22:19 Investment Decisions in Farming24:37 Utilising Finance for Growth27:31 Future Aspirations and Growth29:09 Vulnerability and Accountability in Farming31:32 Pride in Their Achievements