I love what farmer Joe Briggs is advocating for here (it's not quite how the headline reads).
By actively encouraging a better work-life balance and prioritising farming efficiency, Joe asks: Can we make time for exercise, travel, friends & family by working smarter, not harder?
This is something we have always tried to do here on our farm (outside of peak periods): start early, longer breaks during the heat of the day and allow flexibility to do things off farm.
Technology should be a tool that makes our lives easier, not more burdensome.
Agriculture is an industry often defined by long hours and isolation, factors that contribute to lower life expectancy, substance misuse, and alarmingly high rates of depression and suicide.
In my view, anything that challenges the traditional narrative and shifts the culture towards working safely and productively while protecting mental health is a massive step in the right direction.
Many of my research friends and those that facilitate and manage projects in the people space like Dr Nic, Jo Eady, Rach Holloway and Shanna Whan are champions in these fields and must be so chuffed to see next gen farmers challenging the norms.
The 9-5 gig is a suggested guide of total hours not a literal work hour in his story.
The replies to his post show an alarmingly closed minded view from people who are usually great at interpreting and implementation of research for on farm benefit.
Of course weather, breakdowns, and other things will always pop up but understanding your risks, planning and managing for those things that will always come along unexpectedly are important.
Fatigue management is a crucial part of managing stress and accidents. Attracting a future workforce also requires thinking outside the box on how we manage time. To listen - https://ab.co/3OCeKqM
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The Independent Planning Commission (IPC) is inviting community feedback on the Dinawan Solar Farm development application.
The IPC will also hold a public meeting, allowing community members to share their views directly.
It will be held at Coleambally Community Hall this Friday at 10am.
The meeting will be livestreamed on the IPC’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCldqj5LMpNSuyeKp2rU4Yvw For more information or to make a submission, visit: www.ipcn.nsw.gov.au
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With the NRL season starting this weekend, both the Brolga Hotel and Coly Community Club have their footy tipping competitions all ready for participants. Have a go in both comps for some weekly bragging rights and plenty of fun.
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It's Never Too Late to Participate as this snippet writer gives the www.barellanmastersgames.com.au a little plug which is this weekend. Seven sports, plenty of fun and a great way to get involved and maybe claim your own medal.
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