Episode 57 – From the Paddock: Homeblock Columnists on Seasons and Stock
This episode brings together insights from a diverse group of Homeblock columnists, offering a broad perspective on farming both in New Zealand and abroad. Rebecca Greaves and Sarah Perriam-Lampp discuss a range of topics, from sheep breeding and cattle fertility to shifting seasonal conditions and life on the land. This episode explores the evolving challenges and triumphs of farmers across different regions, highlighting their experiences and expertise.
Guests include:
- Gavin Tait, cattle fertility vet and Scottish sheep and beef farmer
- Roger Barton, Wairarapa farmer
- Charlotte Rietveld, Middle Rock, Rakaia Gorge farmer
- Danielle Hawkins, Otorohanga farmer, author and Waikato vet
Hosts:
– Rebecca Greaves, Editor, Country-Wide
– Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Managing Director, Country-Wide
Gavin Tait, a cattle fertility vet and farmer from the Eastern Scottish Borders, shares insights into the world of livestock breeding and farm management. With a background in cattle IVF and embryo transfer, the discussion explores how technology is shaping the future of genetics in both beef and dairy herds. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing a veterinary career with running a family farm, the growing demand for direct-to-consumer beef sales, and the importance of diversification in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.
Roger Barton, a Wairarapa farmer and industry advocate, shares insights into farm management, land conservation, and the shifting dynamics of livestock farming. Based west of Greytown, Roger discusses the transition from sheep to cattle, his extensive involvement in agricultural politics, lessons from past economic downturns, and the resilience needed to navigate financial challenges. Roger reflects on the importance of global trade relationships, his recent visit to a U.S. retail store selling New Zealand lamb, and the potential impact of shifting market conditions.
Charlotte Rietveld, a Mid-Canterbury farmer and long-time Country-Wide columnist, shares insights into managing Middle Rock, her family’s intergenerational sheep farm in the Rakaia Gorge. Balancing farm ownership with raising three young children, Charlotte discusses the challenges of navigating drought conditions, volatile commodity prices, her 12-year journey as a columnist, how she found her way into writing, and her perspective on resilience in farming. Charlotte reflects on the pressures of modern farm ownership, and the importance of maintaining a sustainable work-life balance.
Ōtorohanga sheep, beef, and dairy grazier Danielle Hawkins is a vet, novelist, and columnist. Alongside her husband, Jared, Danielle is working to transform their farm into a parkland, despite ongoing challenges with cattle damaging newly planted trees. She also balances part-time vet work, handling everything from routine care to complex surgeries. Danielle shares insights into the realities of farming, the unpredictability of weather, and the resilience needed to manage livestock.
