The Country-Wide Podcast

In this episode, host Jo Scott speaks with Jono Reed, stud master and owner of Grampians Angus, to discuss the history and breeding philosophy behind their Angus operations. Grampians Angus is known for its focus on functional, fertile cattle bred to perform under tough environmental conditions and shifting market demands. Jono shares how Grampians Angus combines traditional stockmanship with modern genetic tools to guide their selection decisions. He highlights the importance of matching animals to the environment, and how observation and natural selection still play a critical role alongside data.  Guest: Jono Reed, Owner, Grampians Angus Host: Jo Scott, Genetic Specialist, Targeted Breeding The Grampians herd has been shaped through decades of practical breeding experience, with careful attention to temperament, structure, and adaptability. Jono reflects on how the next generation of bull buyers are increasingly informed, valuing both performance data and phenotype when selecting sires. He also discusses the influence of international breeding systems, and the growing need to produce cattle that are efficient, low-input, and aligned with future industry regulations. With a long-term view of breeding progress, Jono’s focus remains on producing balanced, functional bulls that suit both commercial and stud breeders. He outlines the key challenges facing the beef industry—including succession, regulation, and maintaining breeder relationships—and why the future lies in cattle that deliver both profitability and resilience. Jono also emphasises the importance of selecting for optimum traits rather than simply chasing extremes in growth or performance. He explains how prioritising fertility, structural soundness, and maternal efficiency leads to more sustainable outcomes for commercial herds. By maintaining a disciplined approach to culling and sire selection, Grampians Angus aims to deliver genetics that support long-term herd improvement and meet the practical needs of progressive beef producers.   Grampians Angus Bull Sale: Friday 13th June 2025 420 Cascade Rd, North Canterbury For more information about their Bull Sale, visit their website here: https://www.grampiansangus.co.nz/   Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, as part of the Country-Wide Beef Country series, host Jo Scott speaks to Tim Brittain from Storth Oaks Angus ahead of their annual bull sale. Storth Oaks has grown into a progressive Angus stud breeder with a strong focus on performance-driven cattle and forward-thinking genetic decisions. Tim shares how Storth Oaks integrates tools such as whole herd DNA testing and the latest estimated breeding values (EBVs), including mature cow traits, to deliver bulls that balance maternal functionality with carcase merit.  Guest: Tim Brittain, Storth Oaks Host: Jo Scott, Genetic Specialist, Targeted Breeding The Storth Oaks herd has been developed through consistent performance recording, whole herd DNA testing, and the use of standout sires such as Storth Oaks S47 and Dunoon Recharge. Storth Oaks is focused on breeding cattle fit for both hill country and the evolving beef and dairy sectors. Tim explains how their breeding objectives are guided by the AngusPro and AngusPure indexes to ensure the bulls they sell add direct value to farmers bottom lines. With a strong background in both practical farming and data-driven breeding, Tim’s breeding philosophy is that performance and functionality are key drivers for commercial success. He discusses the importance of combining maternal efficiency with carcase quality, and how traits such as fertility, mature cow size, and intramuscular fat (IMF) are selected to meet the demands of both commercial beef and dairy finishers. He also shares how Storth Oaks places a strong focus on quiet temperament, structure, and ability on harder terrain, ensuring the bulls are as resilient as they are productive. Tim outlines the careful balance of using artificial insemination (AI), natural sires, and rigorous culling to maintain herd quality and long-term genetic gain. Their 2025 bull sale line-up includes the progeny of Storth Oaks S47 and Dunoon Recharge, in alignment with the AngusPro and AngusPure indexes/ Find out more about Storth Oaks upcoming annual bull sale here: https://www.storthoaks.com/bull-sale/   Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Country-Wide Autumn Special Report: Pathways to Farm Ownership, Sarah Perriam-Lampp speaks with Sarah Barr from Rural Coach and Brent Irving from PGG Wrightson. Sarah Barr discusses how aligning values, building trust, and planning for the unexpected can create strong, long-lasting farming partnerships.  Brent, drawing on his rural banking and real estate background, shares insights on how equity partnerships and lease-to-buy models are helping young farmers onto the ownership ladder. He emphasises the importance of collaboration, long-term thinking, and management skills over upfront capital, encouraging aspiring farm owners to seek help early.   Guests: Sarah Barr, Partner, Rural Coach Brent Irving, Rural & Lifestyle Sales Consultant, PGG Wrightson Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide   With years of experience supporting rural families, Sarah Barr is a partner at Rural Coach, where she helps navigate the complexities of farming partnerships and succession planning. She highlights the importance of understanding what matters most to people — their values, motivations, and goals — in building strong, lasting relationships in farming. Sarah explains how Rural Coach helps clients clarify personal and business values, often revealing insights that align parties before formalising arrangements. She emphasises early communication, trust-building, and addressing the "three Ds" — death, divorce, and disablement — as well as planning exit strategies from the start. She also discusses the significance of reputation and visibility in a small country like New Zealand, stressing the need for proactive, honest, and consistent approaches to building partnerships or attracting investors. Lastly, Sarah touches on how equity partnerships can energise multi-generational farms and the vital role of advisory boards in supporting fair decision-making.   With a background in rural banking and now a real estate agent for PGG Wrightson in the South Island, Brent Irving brings extensive expertise in equity partnerships and farm ownership transitions. His early exposure to equity partnerships within his family ignited a passion for helping young farmers achieve ownership. Brent explains that many older landowners are open to partnerships that reduce their workload while supporting the next generation. He believes success relies on a long-term, collaborative approach, often taking years to find the right people. He stresses the importance of starting each deal with a fresh perspective, highlighting that there’s more capital available than many realise—from retiring farmers, private investors, and overseas buyers. Management skill, innovation, and the ability to manage compliance often outweigh the need for upfront capital. Brent also notes a rise in lease-to-buy arrangements and encourages young farmers to be proactive, ask questions, and put themselves forward. With the right support, ownership is achievable.   To read the full article on the Country-Wide website, visit:  https://country-wide.co.nz/a-foot-in-the-door-ask-the-experts/   Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, as part of the Country-Wide’s Beef Country series Sarah Perriam-Lampp speaks to Leefield Station Farm Manager, Greg Crombie. As one of the oldest stations in Marlborough’s Waihopai Valley region, Leefield Station Angus has grown and expanded its Angus stud sourcing genetics from a range of well known Angus dispersal sales and bull selection under the management of Greg. He shares how the integration of viticulture onto the flats has meant their cattle operation  is predominately on their most challenging arid terrain which is a strong point of difference for their selection of resilient cattle.  Guest: Greg Crombie, Farm Manager Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide With decades of experience in cattle genetics and performance breeding, Greg oversees 300 Angus cows raised under some of the most demanding farming conditions in the country. He discusses the importance of calving ease, fertility, and controlling mature cow weight in their stud programme, and how these traits are aligned with the needs of commercial hill country farmers across New Zealand. The Leefield Angus Stud has been developed using strong foundation females and carefully selected genetics from leading herds across the country. Greg explains how their rigorous culling process ensures only the most resilient bulls progress to sale. Greg explains how they have  implemented one of the country’s largest solar-powered water systems which has led to significantly increasing stock units on hill country. He also discusses the  genetic strategies that underpin Leefield Angus growing success today. Join Leefield Station for their annual on farm Angus Bull Sale:  3pm Sunday 15 June 2025 1171 Waihopai Valley Road, RD 6, Blenheim, Marlborough. For more information, along with their soon to be available Bull Catalogue, visit their webpage https://marisco.co.nz/pages/leefield-station-annual-on-farm-bull-sale Or feel free to call or email Greg directly: Greg@leefieldstation.co.nz M: 0275511011 or email: events@leefieldstation.co.nz To sign up to the Leefield Station Bull Sale mailing list email them at events@leefieldstation.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode,  as part of our Country-Wide Autumn Special Report: Pathways to Farm Ownership, we explore the journey of establishing a successful equity partnership at Inveray, a historic family sheep and beef farm in Mount Somers, Canterbury. John Chapman and Bert Oliver share how they transitioned from a traditional ownership model to a collaborative business structure, underpinned by trust, aligned values, and a shared long-term vision.  Guests: John Chapman, Owner, Inverary Station Bert Oliver, Farm Manager, Inverary Station Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide John Chapman’s family have been farming at Inveray Station in Canterbury for nearly a century, tracing its roots back to his father’s purchase of the farm in 1928. He discusses the evolution of the property, now spanning over 4,250 hectares, and the importance of succession planning as his children chose not to pursue farming. Chapman highlights the pivotal moment when he and his family decided to keep the farm while bringing in new energy through an equity partnership.  Bert Oliver, a first-generation sheep farmer, shares his journey from growing up on a small piggery in Oamaru to managing and ultimately entering an equity partnership at Inveray in Canterbury. He reflects on his early experience in sheep farming across the high country and his move to Mount Somers, where he and his wife Kate were drawn to Inveray’s unique mix of development potential and challenging hill country. Oliver discusses the early conversations with the Chapman family, the importance of building a strong working relationship, and the gradual shift from management to partnership.  Bert emphasises that their shared values and John & Anne’s commitment to continuous development aligned with their farming career goals. Chapman believes that successful partnerships are built on communication, generosity, and mutual respect, noting that trust and shared vision are essential for enduring success in modern farming. The Chapman & Oliver’s top tips: Surround yourself with trusted advisors Clearly define your personal and professional values from the outset.  The importance of communication and reflecting on your communication style Having long-term thinking and planning beyond the partnership Find where the mutual benefit lies for a sustainable business model. To read the full article on the Country-Wide website, visit: https://country-wide.co.nz/better-together-building-a-successful-equity-partnership/  Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore the current state of the livestock market in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on rising prices, global demand, and the challenges facing the beef industry. Experts Simon Quilty and Dr Jim Gibbs share insights on the factors shaping the market, from climate variability and feed efficiency to sustainability and trade agreements. We discuss how producers can navigate these complexities, adapt to shifting market conditions, and leverage innovation to ensure long-term success in an increasingly competitive global industry. Guests: Simon Quilty, Meat and Livestock Analyst Dr. Jim Gibbs, Senior Lecturer, Lincoln University Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide   Simon Quilty, an independent livestock analyst, examines the current state of the beef industry in New Zealand and Australia, highlighting the factors driving record-high prices and global demand. He discusses the impact of tariffs, supply shortages, and herd rebuilding in key beef-producing regions. While the market outlook remains strong, Quilty emphasises the challenges faced by New Zealand producers, particularly in processing capacity and industry cycles. He explores strategies for navigating market fluctuations, stressing the importance of long-term planning and adaptability. Quilty believes that understanding global trends and preparing for industry shifts are essential for sustaining profitability in the livestock sector. Dr Jim Gibbs, a beef finishing and breeding expert, explores the critical role of feed efficiency in New Zealand’s beef industry. He examines why improving efficiency could address key challenges, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to enhancing profitability, yet it remains undervalued across the sector. Gibbs discusses the impact of New Zealand’s spring calving system, the dominance of dairy cull cows in the beef market, and the structural barriers to change. He highlights the benefits of finishing cattle earlier, reducing time on pasture, and lowering methane emissions. Gibbs believes that shifting industry priorities towards efficiency and sustainability is essential for the long-term viability of New Zealand’s beef sector.   Simon Quilty’s article from Beef Country can be found HERE Dr. Jim Gibbs article from Beef Country can be found HERE   Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of planning for the unexpected in farming. Carissa Fairbrother, financial advisor at RIVAL Wealth, shares key insights on preparing your financial affairs for unforeseen circumstances. We explore how safeguarding your farm’s future with proper insurance and risk management can help during tough times, ensuring your business remains resilient. Guest: Carissa Fairbrother, Financial Advisor, RIVAL Wealth Host: Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide Carissa Fairbrother, financial advisor at RIVAL Wealth, explores the importance of key person insurance in protecting farming businesses from unexpected disruptions. With years of expertise in financial planning, she highlights how farmers often overlook their own role as the most valuable asset in their operation. The conversation delves into succession planning, estate management, and ensuring financial stability in the event of illness or accidents. Carissa addresses common misconceptions about insurance, emphasising the need for proactive decision-making. She also discusses the impact of inadequate planning, including forced farm sales and financial strain on families. The conversation underscores the importance of aligning financial protection with long-term farming goals, ensuring business continuity and intergenerational success. By structuring risk management effectively, farmers can secure their legacy and navigate uncertainties with confidence. This episode provides valuable insights for those looking to safeguard their farming future with smart financial strategies. Carissa’s article in the latest Country-Wide: https://country-wide.co.nz/shell-be-right-mate/ Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Sarah delves into an in-depth discussion with Geoff Simmons, Chief Economist for the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment. The conversation focuses on the report Going with the Grain: Changing Land Uses to Fit a Changing Landscape, which was published in May 2024. Geoff highlights the importance of adopting a catchment-level approach to land use changes, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all national regulation.  Guest: Geoff Simmons, Chief Economist of the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Host: - Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide Geoff Simmons, Chief Economist at the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, discusses the challenges and opportunities of changing land use in response to environmental pressures. With expertise in economic and environmental policy, the conversation explores how New Zealand can balance economic growth with sustainability in the face of climate change, biodiversity loss, and evolving farming practices. The discussion highlights innovative solutions such as regenerative agriculture, native forest restoration, and carbon farming, as well as the role of science-driven decision-making in shaping land-use policies. Geoff also examines the complexities of aligning government regulations, business interests, and community needs to create a more resilient future. The conversation touches on the importance of long-term strategies to ensure that land use changes support both productivity and ecological health, while emphasising the need for collaboration among policymakers, industry leaders, and local communities to drive sustainable progress in New Zealand’s landscapes. Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Sarah Perriam-Lampp sits down with Methven farmer Hamish Marr, who serves as New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy. They discuss his role in representing New Zealand agriculture in global markets, the evolving international landscape, and the impact of policies like the Paris Accord and the Net Zero Banking Alliance. Hamish emphasises the fundamentals of farming—efficiency, productivity, and pride in production—while also addressing the uncertainty farmers face amid shifting political and economic climates. Guest: Hamish Marr, Special Agricultural Trade Envoy Host: - Sarah Perriam-Lampp, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Country-Wide Hamish Marr, a fifth-generation Methven farmer and New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, shares insights into the evolving global trade landscape and its impact on New Zealand agriculture. With a background as a Nuffield Scholar and extensive experience in international trade negotiations, the discussion explores how New Zealand farmers can navigate protectionism, market signals, and sustainability expectations. The conversation also touches on the importance of efficiency and productivity in maintaining New Zealand’s global reputation, the challenges of aligning industry and government direction, and the opportunities for collaboration with Australia in agricultural trade. Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.   Subscribe to Country-Wide magazine for $79/year for four seasonal magazines including free postage annually: https://country-wide.co.nz/shop/  SUBSCRIBE TO THE COUNTRY-WIDE WEEKLY EMAILSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.