MODERN solutions to the age-old challenges to buying and selling a farm will be the focus of an innovative and topical agribusiness forum in Goulburn next week.
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Local grower-owned organisation, Tablelands Farming Systems, has pulled together a progressive line-up of experts to cover a range of issues around the themes of ‘farm transition’ - bringing new ways of thinking around this complex subject to local farmers, be they aspiring or retiring.
TFS has identified a number of barriers to farm transition, with access to capital, finance and investment being the obvious one.
But how and when to sell a farm, either to the next generation or next door-neighbour, and how to step back from the farm when agriculture is quite often the only thing ever known is also a huge barrier to farm transition and a key theme to be addressed at this half-day event on Wednesday, February 28.
TFS chairman, John Klem, believes there are many opportunities available for farmers to effectively transition in or out of the agricultural sector, and he hopes new ideas, tools and inspiration from this event will help farmers address current road blocks.
“We see this as a really innovative and informative event,” Mr Klem said.
“TFS has identified the need for more farmers, both young or older, to understand the opportunities to overcome farm transition challenges.
“We are keen to explore new ways of bringing farmers together, whether they are entering or exiting the industry, and will hear more about equity partnerships and other investment models, as well as new thinking around succession planning.
“I am also looking forward to hearing first-person accounts on how to tackle some of these barriers in order to make farming dreams a reality.”
Mr Klem said agriculture was booming and it was an exciting time to be part of such a dynamic sector.
“But it’s vital farmers in our area have the tools to make the most of this boom.”
The event will feature an address from Sam Marwood, the founder of Cultivate Farms, described as the “Tinder of farming” for the way it connects retiring and aspiring farmers along with investors.
Mr Marwood will speak about modern and also creative farm ownership opportunities, such as equity-management arrangements which may enable young family families to purchase a stake in a new business while equally providing a positive chance for a retiring farmer to step back from the farm yet maintain a level of interest.
Representatives from banking, finance and investment institutions will also be part of the day.
The event will be held at the Goulburn Soldiers Club and is free for TFS members. However a warm welcome is extended to non-members for a small fee, to be donated to the Country Education Foundation. Morning and afternoon tea is provided.
For further information and registration details visit the TFS website www.tablelandsfarmingsystems.com.au or contact executive officer, Tracy Watson on 0414 811 185.