Rural Podcaster: Angie Nisbet
Angie Nisbet. Angie Nisbet’s roots run deep in Australian agriculture, having been born and raised in North Western Queensland. Her upbringing on a cattle property instilled in her a profound love for the land, and her journey unfolded as she pursued a career in agriculture following her educational pursuits. Angie's diverse professional journey has seen her don various roles, from jilleroo to beauty therapist, and even a truck driver for a livestock nutrition business during the harsh times of drought. However, her most cherished titles are that of a rural mother of three and a devoted wife, residing on their station.
Establishing a business in such a remote setting is no small feat, and Angie takes immense pride in the close-knit community and unique setting in which she calls home. Agriculture is a crucial sector that sustains us all, and Angie is determined to spark more conversations about its significance at the kitchen table. Driven by a desire to bridge her profound connection to the land with the inspirational women she has encountered in the agricultural sphere, Angie was inspired to create her own podcast, "Married to the Land" where she delves into the intricate relationships between women living in rural, remote and regional areas. Angie is a formidable advocate for rural women.
Can you tell us about your own personal journey living and working in the Outback of Queensland?
Upon completing secondary school, I embarked on a year-long journey to work on a sprawling cattle station spanning 1.5 million acres in Northwest Queensland. Despite the challenging work and long days, I found immense fulfillment in the experience. My time there allowed me to form meaningful connections with exceptional individuals, immerse myself in horseback riding, and foster friendships within the broader community. Over the course of four years, I continued working as a station hand across Queensland and the Northern Territory, encountering invaluable mentors and collaborating with reputable companies.
Although I later pursued a career as a beauty therapist, the agricultural industry always beckoned me back. Even while in the beauty industry, I seized every opportunity to return to my roots, whether assisting at local sale yards or providing horse care services in the area. Upon relocating to Longreach in Queensland, I diversified my skill set through various roles, including administration for an agriculture company, saleyard assistance, allied health work, livestock and nutrition management, and even truck driving. These diverse experiences have proven instrumental in shaping my current role.
Now, as a mother of three, I've returned to our family's grazing property, where I strive to strike a balance between tending to the paddocks, nurturing my burgeoning podcast—a platform I adore for its intellectual stimulation and networking opportunities—and actively participating in local community events. Most recently, my sister, Shona, and I launched a business catered to rural women, focusing on sun protection. FarmHER Hands UPF 50+ gloves offer women in agriculture the protection they need for the rigours of life on the land.
What are some of the challenges you face as a farmer and how do you overcome them?
Some of the challenges faced in agriculture are often aggravated by negative portrayals in the media. There's a prevailing sentiment that blames farmers for various issues like climate change. However, I strongly advocate for educating urban populations about our industry and our commitment to improvement. It's essential to convey why we, the newer generation of farmers, strive for better practices. I firmly believe that farmers play a crucial role in sustaining life; if we revert to primitive survival, the necessities—water, food, and shelter—are all provided by farmers. There's a pressing need for increased representation in the political sphere to address these challenges effectively.
What inspired you to create your podcast "Married to the Land" and what message do you hope to share with listeners, especially young people?
The inception of "Married to the Land" stemmed from the wealth of stories within the community of women I am connected with. Their narratives ignited my passion for creating MTTL. My aim is for individuals from diverse backgrounds, whether they're from agriculture or not, to tune in, absorb, and empathise with the stories, struggles, and triumphs of women from rural areas. I want these voices to be heard and acknowledged. Rural women are incredibly talented, often juggling multiple roles that in urban settings would typically be assigned to a single individual. I hope to showcase the multitude of skills we possess and inspire listeners, especially young people, to broaden their perspectives.
In your podcast episodes, what are some of the most memorable stories or experiences that you have shared?
In my podcast episodes, one of the most resonant themes that emerges is the profound affirmation that "we are present, we are active, and we are passionate about our work." Personally, I've gleaned invaluable advice from these conversations, particularly regarding the importance of self-assurance and continuous learning, especially in areas of agriculture where my knowledge may be lacking. The insight shared reinforces the significance of acquiring comprehensive knowledge to empower better decision-making both personally and professionally within the agricultural sector.
How do you incorporate sustainability and environmental stewardship into your farming practices?
Fortunately, my parents recognised the necessity for a shift in our farming methods and land management practices. My father, Jim, identified a more sustainable approach to land stewardship, prompting us to transition from traditional cattle farming to prioritising grass production and land conservation. By focusing on nurturing the land and optimising grass quality for our animals' nutrition, we've seen remarkable returns on our investment. Our commitment to continuous improvement drives us to explore innovative farming techniques, as we firmly believe that safeguarding the health of our land is paramount in sustaining our presence in the agricultural industry.
As a young farmer, what advice do you have for teenagers who are interested in pursuing a career in agriculture?
For teenagers interested in pursuing a career in agriculture, my advice is simple: dive in and start working. Understand that it's demanding but ultimately fulfilling. Begin saving money early and be open to learning from various sources. It's crucial to grasp financial management skills; consider taking a basic accounting course to lay a foundation for managing your finances, especially if you plan to invest in land or livestock. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude is key. A willingness to tackle challenges with optimism will make you an attractive candidate for employment opportunities in the field.
What are some misconceptions or stereotypes about farming that you would like to address?
Oh I love this! I'm really passionate about addressing misconceptions about farming, and one prevalent belief I'd like to challenge is the notion that rural living is inherently isolating. While there are moments of solitude, rural communities are incredibly close-knit and filled with kind and supportive individuals. Another misconception I often encounter is the idea that farmers are primarily responsible for climate change. In reality, farmers are dedicated to preserving the land. I believe there's room for improvement in urban areas, such as reducing unnecessary energy consumption in skyscrapers. Encouraging connections between city dwellers and rural residents could foster greater understanding and collaboration, and I have numerous ideas on how to facilitate this exchange.
Can you share with us a particularly heartwarming or inspiring moment you have had while working on the land?
Approximately five years ago, I experienced a profound loss when a close friend succumbed to melanoma. This deeply affected me, and since then, I've developed a ritual that serves as a source of solace and inspiration. Whenever I'm driving home and witness a sunset, I make it a point to pause, turn off the car, and spend 5-10 minutes soaking in the beauty of the land and fields. This practice grounds me, reinforcing the significance of our work to me, my family, and the broader world. It's not a single moment but a continuous ritual that brings me peace and purpose. Another uplifting experience is when I'm riding a horse, immersing myself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the environment, particularly during sunsets.
What are some of your favourite aspects of living and working in the Outback of Queensland?
Some of the highlights of residing and working in the Outback of Queensland include the strong sense of community among family and friends. Whether living in town or on the land, I've forged incredibly loyal friendships characterised by genuine care and support. The camaraderie here is remarkable, with everyone invested in each other's success. Additionally, I'm immensely thankful for the opportunity to raise my children in an environment where they learn practical, common-sense approaches to life and gain insight into the workings of human and animal life. I'm proud of their skills, although they might sometimes be a bit too proficient for their age.
How can young people get involved or support the agricultural community in Australia, even if they don't live in rural areas?
Support rural businesses or donate to the rural community, come and visit a property or even tune into a podcast that can give you more information on the ag space we love to share our life with people it’s a amazing one and I think everyone should experience visiting working or living in it once.
Franc’s Fast Five
Favourite childhood book? Silver Brumby
Currently watching? Masters of the Air on Apple BRILLIANT! A true story and a great piece of history that I think everyone should watch and learn about when they can.
Favourite place to unwind? Not a place but I love go for a horse ride or a run - I LOVE DOING THIS!
Go to snack? Carman muesli bar and cold water.
How do you get motivated? Going for a run or being inspired by people and friends.
FarmHER Hands: Meet the two women bringing fashionable sun protection to the farm, one pair of gloves at a time.