Explore every episode of the podcast Salt of the Earth

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In Part B, Kathryn Hines continues her fascinating insight into life as an RFDS flight nurse.

We hear about 1am landings on dirt strips, flying huge distances across the outback, the incredible landscapes along the way, and doing whatever it takes to give a patient every chance.

And it’s clear just how much Kathryn loves rural people, remote health and the job she does.

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What’s it really like to be a flight nurse with the Royal Flying Doctor Service?

In Part A, I chat with Kathryn Hines from Broken Hill, and she gives us a fascinating insight into life with the RFDS. Kathryn is a great storyteller and takes us through everything from broken legs to life-threatening trauma, remote rescues and the challenges of getting patients out of some of the most isolated parts of Australia.

It’s a great yarn with someone who clearly loves her job, loves rural people and loves being part of this incredible service.

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Rawnsley Park Station sits beneath the spectacular Flinders Ranges, on the southern side of Wilpena Pound.

In this episode, I chat with Nev Smith about life at Rawnsley Park, the history of the Smith family and what it’s like to wake up every day surrounded by one of Australia’s most remarkable landscapes.

We talk about the changes at Rawnsley Park, the move from a sheep station only to tourism, and why Nev says the view from his backyard still blows him away.

It’s a great yarn about country, family, tourism and one pretty special part of South Australia.

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What if the future of Australian meat processing wasn’t about building bigger abattoirs, but taking the abattoir to the cattle?

That’s the idea behind Provenir, Australia’s first mobile abattoir — an innovative approach to processing cattle on-farm, with a focus on animal welfare, meat quality, traceability and regional agriculture.

In this episode, I talk with Chris Balazs, one of the five people who believed there had to be a better way.

Chris came to the project from a biopharmaceutical science background, bringing a very different perspective to the way we think about livestock, processing and food production. We hear how the team battled years of red tape, helped change legislation and eventually built Provenir from the ground up.

But there’s also a very personal side to Chris’s story. He talks openly about the challenges of building a company while raising teenage daughters and dealing with the devastating loss of his wife.

It’s a conversation about innovation, persistence and having the courage to challenge an industry and ask: is there a better way?

And Chris doesn’t just want Provenir to succeed — he wants others to follow the same path and believes this model could help change the future of Australian agriculture.

This is a fascinating story of thinking differently, sticking with an idea and refusing to give up.

Here’s Chris Balazs from Provenir.

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Last episode, we heard about Rick’s incredible family history and how a young Territory bloke learned the value of hard work and making the most of every opportunity.

In Part Two, the story really takes off.

Rick heads into remote cattle stations, working with bores and irrigation and learning just how important water is to life in the outback.

Then comes the big gamble.

A business in Alice Springs is heading into receivership. Most people would have walked away.

Rick didn’t.

He backed himself, took the risk and turned it into what is now Think Water Alice Springs.

It’s a story about resilience, determination and seeing opportunity where others saw problems.

This is Rick Chambers.

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Alice Springs. Right in the heart of Australia.

It’s a place built on resilience, hard work and people who know how to make things happen when conditions are anything but easy.

In Part One of my conversation with Rick Chambers, we go back generations to an incredible family journey from Australia’s east coast to the Northern Territory border — travelling thousands of kilometres by horse and cart through some of the toughest country in Australia.

Rick grew up in the Territory, where life revolved around hard work, road camps, caravans and one subject that always dominates conversation in the outback — water.

From starting out as a chainman surveying roads to meeting a mentor who encouraged him to learn, take opportunities and never shy away from hard work, Rick’s story is deeply connected to the people and places that shaped him.

This is Part One of the story of Rick Chambers.

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What happens when you leave behind city life and take a chance on the country?

In this episode, Darren sits down with Kelly Glass from Jayfields Nursery, one of Australia's largest wholesale native plant nurseries, to hear the remarkable story behind a business that now grows more than 6.7 million seedlings each year.

Kelly shares how she and her husband Tim searched for a new life before settling near Wagga Wagga, where they built a thriving nursery supplying native plants for revegetation, conservation and large-scale environmental projects across Australia.

Along the way, we explore the importance of native species, the technology that allows millions of seeds to be planted with incredible precision, and the passion required to grow a business from the ground up.

And just when you think you know Kelly's story, she reveals a surprising chapter from her past—as one of the world's top-ranked ballroom dancers.

It's a conversation about courage, resilience, family, and the opportunities that can grow from taking a leap of faith.

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Award-winning journalist and television presenter Lisa Millar returns to Salt of the Earth for a special conversation about one of Australia's most-loved television programs – ABC's Back Roads.

For years, Lisa and the Back Roads team have travelled to some of the most remote and remarkable communities in the country, uncovering stories of resilience, humour, kindness and the people who make regional Australia so special.

In this episode, Lisa shares what happens when the cameras arrive in town, how the crew earns the trust of complete strangers, and why country Australians continue to open their homes, hearts and lives to millions of viewers.

We also explore why Back Roads continues to resonate with Australians, the unique bond between people and the places they call home, and how Muster Dogs became one of the country's most-loved television series.

Along the way, there's plenty of laughter, a few behind-the-scenes stories, and even a moment where I get to hold the Logie won by Lisa and the Muster Dogs team.

If you love rural Australia, great storytelling and the people who make this country tick, you're going to love this conversation.

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Today, we head across the globe to California to speak with Anastasia Volkova, CEO and co-founder of Regrow Ag — one of the world’s leading agricultural technology companies.

With a background in aerospace engineering and a passion for solving some of agriculture’s biggest challenges, Anastasia is helping shape the future of regenerative agriculture.

Regrow Ag sits at the intersection of agriculture, technology and sustainability, using satellite imagery, farm data and science to help farmers and food companies measure what is working — from improving soil health and storing carbon, to reducing emissions across the supply chain.

Recently named one of the BBC’s Top 100 Women, Anastasia shares her insights into the future of farming, the challenges facing Australian agriculture, and why regeneration is not a destination, but a continuous journey of improvement.

It’s a fascinating conversation with one of the global leaders helping build a more resilient agricultural future.

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After decades reporting some of the biggest stories on the planet, Lisa Millar thought coming home to Australia might mean life would finally slow down.

It didn't.

In Part C of our conversation, Lisa takes us behind the scenes of ABC News Breakfast, sharing what it's really like to host three hours of live television every weekday morning. We talk about the pressure, the preparation, and the moments viewers never get to see.

Lisa also reflects on interviewing people she once looked up to as a young journalist, and opens up about writing her bestselling memoir, Daring to Fly—an honest, funny and deeply personal look at a life shaped by curiosity, resilience and a love of storytelling.

We also chat about why she believes the answers to so many of life's questions can still be found in regional Australia, and why those communities continue to shape who she is.

This is another warm, thoughtful and entertaining conversation with one of Australia's most respected broadcasters.

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In Part B of my conversation with one of Australia's most respected broadcasters, Lisa Millar, we move from matters of the heart to some of the biggest stories of our generation.

Lisa opens up about finding love before reflecting on the moments that shaped her journalism career.

She takes us back to the aftermath of September 11, reporting from Washington as the world grappled with terrorism, uncertainty and fear. We also travel to London, where more major international events unfolded, bringing incredible professional challenges alongside deep personal heartbreak.

This is a side of Lisa that goes beyond the headlines. Honest, reflective and incredibly moving.

If you've ever wondered what it's really like to report on history as it unfolds, while trying to navigate your own life at the same time, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Thanks for listening to Salt of the Earth.

If you enjoy the podcast, I'd really appreciate it if you could follow, rate and share the episode. It helps these stories reach even more people.

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Lisa Millar- Part A | From a country kid with a dictaphone to one of Australia's most loved broadcasters

Before the Gold Logie nominations, before Back Roads, Muster Dogs, and decades reporting some of Australia's biggest stories, there was a curious country girl growing up in Kilkivan, Queensland, with a dictaphone in her hand and a love of asking questions.

In Part A of this special three-part conversation, Lisa Millar takes us back to where it all began.

We talk about growing up in rural Queensland, the people and experiences that shaped her, her first steps into journalism, and the determination that saw her chase a career she never imagined would take her around the world.

Along the way, Lisa shares stories that are funny, heartfelt and deeply personal—including a priceless recording of a ten-year-old Lisa interviewing her dad, Clarrie.

It's the beginning of an extraordinary journey, and a wonderful reminder that big dreams can start in the smallest of country towns.

If you enjoy this episode, don't forget to follow Salt of the Earth Farm Stories, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves a great story.

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Some people inspire you. Others leave you completely lost for words.

In this very special episode, we follow the extraordinary journey of Sam Longmore as she takes on The Big Wheel — wheeling herself an incredible 441 kilometres over eight days using just one side of her body.

Through rain, strong winds, steep hills, traffic and countless obstacles, Sam's determination never wavered. But this journey was never about personal glory. Sam undertook this monumental challenge to raise money and awareness for mental health, putting others before herself every step — and wheel — of the way.

We first meet Sammy as she prepares to leave Corowa, NSW, surrounded by family, friends and supporters. From there, we check in throughout her journey, sharing the highs, the lows, the laughter, the tears and the extraordinary grit required to keep moving forward.

Finally, we join the incredible scenes at the finish line, where an emotional and electric crowd welcomes home one very special human being.

This episode is about courage. It's about kindness. It's about determination. And it's about what can happen when one person decides to do something extraordinary for others.

Thank you, Sammy, for sharing your story.

Donations can be made through My Cause – The Big Wheel.

If this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available. In Australia, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Some people live one life. Clem Furphy seems to have lived several.

Born in 1943, Clem proudly describes himself as a war baby, not a boomer. In this conversation, he reflects on a life packed with adventure, creativity, community, farming and plenty of good stories.

From riding his bike to school through Melbourne traffic (no hands), studying civil engineering, and enjoying time at the iconic Prince Alfred Hotel, to travelling Europe with his wife Kate in a VW Kombi, Clem has always embraced life with curiosity and humour.

Eventually, he and Kate followed their dream of country and farm life. There, Clem built a mud-brick home with his own hands, immersed himself in the local community, and helped transform everyday locals into actors and touring performers.

This is a warm, funny, and thoughtful chat about changing times, country life, creativity, and making the most of every chapter.

And be sure to stay right until the end, where Kate treats us to a special tune on the piano.

Enjoy this conversation with Clem Furphy.

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Many of you will remember Sam Longmore as the woman who refused to let a life-changing accident define her. After being left paralysed down one side, she rebuilt her life with remarkable grit and determination, going on to break world water-skiing records and receive the prestigious Shine Award. 

Now, she's taking on another massive challenge.

The Big Wheel was born from Sam's desire to make a real difference for mental health in rural communities — a cause deeply personal to her and one that affects so many people across regional Australia.

In an incredible feat of endurance, Sam will wheel herself 441 kilometres from Corowa to Yass, New South Wales, in just eight days. And remember, she'll be doing it using just one arm.

In this episode, we catch up with Sam as she prepares for the challenge, hear about the intense training that's included a lap of Mount Panorama, meeting one of her inspirations, Nedd Brockman, and the team helping bring this ambitious fundraiser to life.

Sam is the first to say that The Big Wheel is a team effort — and she's absolutely right. But she's still the one pushing that chair, kilometre after kilometre, in the hope of raising awareness and much-needed funds for mental health in rural communities.

If you haven't already, make sure you go back and listen to Episode 76 to hear Sam Longmore's extraordinary story.

If you'd like to support Sam and this incredible initiative, simply Google "MyCause – The Big Wheel" and consider making a donation.

Get ready to be inspired all over again as we catch up with the unstoppable Sam Longmore.

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Most 13-year-olds are thinking about school, sport, social media, or what’s for dinner. But for Lucy Godbolt, a lot of her spare time is spent thinking about cattle, genetics, temperament, and what makes a great animal stand out in the ring.

Growing up in a livestock-focused family, Lucy has learned plenty from her dad, Pete Godbolt, a highly respected stud stock manager with Nutrien Ag Solutions. But she's also forging her own path in the industry.

At just 13, Lucy is already making her mark at major events such as the Sydney Royal Easter Show, competing in cattle showing and junior judging competitions, and collecting an impressive list of ribbons and achievements along the way.

In this episode, we chat about the excitement and nerves of show day, some memorable mishaps, her agricultural scholarship, and what keeps drawing her back to the cattle industry. We also find out her favourite cattle breed.

It's a great conversation with one of the next generation of passionate young people helping shape the future of Australian agriculture.

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Peter Goldbolt.

In this episode, we dive into the pressure and adrenaline of sale day — where Pete can be responsible for selling millions of dollars worth of livestock in a single day.

As a Stud Stock Manager with Nutrien Ag Solutions, Pete gives a great insight into the modern stud stock world, from changing technology to the relationships that hold the industry together across Australia.

We also get a behind-the-scenes look at auctioneering itself — including the difference between being a fast or slow padder, reading a crowd, and the skill involved in keeping a sale moving.

There’s plenty of laughs in this one too, along with an honest chat about family life, long days on the road, and the balancing act that comes with working right across the country.

Hope you enjoy Part B with Peter Godbolt.

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Peter Godbolt is a Stud Stock Manager with Nutrien Ag Solutions, working with livestock breeders and producers right across Australia. Spending close to 100,000 kilometres a year on the road, he’s constantly travelling between cattle sales, properties, shows and industry events.

Growing up around Herefords, Pete says there’s no better place to grow up than on the farm — and his experience stretches across both the commercial and stud stock sectors of the livestock industry.

In Part A, we talk auctioneering stories, life on the land, the evolution of cattle genetics, meat quality, temperament, and the people that make the industry what it is. There’s plenty of insight, a few laughs, and some great stories from behind the microphone and behind the rails.

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After disaster hits a community, the damage isn’t always visible. Grief, uncertainty and the fear of what might come next can linger for years — especially in rural Australia, where many people live knowing another drought, fire or flood could be around the corner.

In this episode, Warren Davies talks openly about resilience, adverse circumstances, and the importance of building capacity before life gets tough. We also check in on Warren himself, and discuss practical ways people can better support both themselves and those around them.

There’s plenty of encouragement in this conversation too — including Warren’s challenge for people to find just one percent of their day to invest in their own wellbeing.

This episode is about resilience, hope, community… and the small steps that can make a big difference.

If this episode raises anything for you personally, please reach out for support. Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.

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Warren Davies knows what it’s like to hit rock bottom — and rebuild from it.

Known to many as The Unbreakable Farmer, Warren has become one of Australia’s most respected rural mental health speakers, travelling the country sharing hard-earned lessons on resilience, connection, and getting through tough seasons.

In this episode of Salt of the Earth, Farm Stories, Warren opens up about the challenges facing rural Australia, the emotional toll disasters can take on rural families, and why building capacity before crisis matters so much.

We also talk about the work he’s doing in disaster-hit communities around Australia, the importance of mateship and conversation, and how small steps can make a real difference when life feels overwhelming.

This is a grounded and honest conversation.

If this episode brings up anything for you, support is available.
In Australia, you can contact Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 or visit Lifeline Australia
for 24/7 crisis support and counselling.

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What if the birds on your farm could tell you how healthy your landscape really is?

In this episode of Salt of the Earth Farm Stories, we sit down with the endlessly curious Dr David Watson — ecologist, innovator, and passionate advocate for woodland birds — to explore a fascinating piece of technology that could change the way farmers understand their environment.

Dr Dave and his team have developed the Bush Bird Classifier, a free and easy-to-use tool that automatically identifies bird species from the sounds around your farm. Using smart algorithms and acoustic monitoring, the technology gives landholders real-time insights into biodiversity and ecosystem health — without needing specialist bird knowledge.

But this conversation goes far beyond birdsong.

We unpack:

• Why woodland birds are such powerful indicators of landscape health
• How biodiversity data could play a role in future farming income streams
• The connection between healthy ecosystems and productive farms
• Why practical, low-cost technology matters for regional communities
• Dave’s genuine passion for helping people reconnect with the natural world around them

This is a conversation about curiosity, innovation, and learning to “listen” to country in a completely new way.

Cutting-edge science meets practical farming 

The Bush Bird Classifier project was funded by the Federal DCCEEW under their Innovative Biodiversity Monitoring scheme.

Vicky Austin and Lance de Vine, two research fellows who are also dedicated to the project.

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This is Part B with Libby Price, picking up after one of the toughest chapters of her career—reporting on Black Saturday.

We dive into a powerful question: how do you cover tragedy and still stay human?

From tough interviews and on-air moments to farming life, “horse heaven,” and her pull back to radio, Libby shares the highs, lows, and lessons from behind the mic.

There’s insight on rural journalism, politics, and supporting women in ag—plus a deeply personal reflection on losing her mother at just 20.

Honest, insightful, and guaranteed to educate, inform, and entertain.

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Today, we go behind the scenes of radio with one of the most recognisable voices in rural Australia—Libby Price.

From her early days in the Adelaide Hills to an outstanding career across radio and television—best known for ABC’s Country Hour and now ACE Radio’s Country Today—Libby’s journey has been anything but ordinary.

She’s interviewed Prime Ministers, built a reputation as a tough, no-filter journalist, and even had John Howard approach her—not the other way around.

But beyond the big names and headline moments lie the challenges, confronting stories, and the reality of covering some of the toughest issues facing rural Australia.

This is Part A of a conversation that will educate, inform, and entertain.

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Part C takes things in a different direction, as we dig deeper into the life of Danny Phegan—farmer, entertainer, and one of the most genuine voices around.

From the opal fields of Lightning Ridge—mud, water, and brown snakes—we explore a side of life many don’t see. Danny reflects on the constant movement of touring, from northern gigs to the south coast, and how songs can be born anywhere—even scribbled on a napkin mid-flight.

There’s plenty of light along the way—cheeky school stories, life on the land, and the excitement of stepping out with something new (including a keytar moment you won’t see coming).

But there’s also real depth, as Danny opens up about the heartbreaking loss of a close mate.

It’s raw, warm, and seriously country—this is Danny Phegan, Part C.

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In Part B, we’re back with Danny Phegan—farmer, singer-songwriter, entertainer, and all-round top bloke.

This episode dives into the realities of chasing a living, the highs and lows, and the moments that make it all worthwhile. Danny shares the incredible story behind his album From Where I Stand hitting number one on the ARIA Country Album Charts—a huge achievement—and what it’s like performing in front of thousands.

We also get a behind-the-scenes look at his time on The Voice, including Keith Urban spinning his chair and the chaos of backing it up on just an hour’s sleep after a big night.

There’s plenty more too—city crowds versus country crowds, songwriting drawn from real life, a powerful fight song with a story you won’t forget, and a potential scoop involving a new release with James Blundell.

It’s honest, entertaining, and full of character—just like Danny himself. 

Check out Danny's music on your favourite music app.

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Episode 100 

What better way to celebrate than with Danny Phegan — farmer, singer/songwriter, entertainer and great family man — sharing a story that’s big, wild and full of heart.

Across three episodes, we cover life on the farm near Albury, NSW, the influence of his grandfather, and the unbelievable story of buying his farm at auction.

From breaking in horses in America to riding from Darwin to Tassie raising over $500,000 for the Campfires Against Cancer Ride — capped off by a homecoming concert with Lee Kernaghan — Danny’s life is packed with grit, music, and pure country energy.

Honest, raw, and entertaining.

Pour a cuppa or grab a cold one — this is Danny Phegan.

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Today we sit down with Nakala Maddock from Nutrisoil to unpack what’s really going on beneath our feet.

Nakala breaks down the fundamentals of vermiculture and explains how the worm’s gut acts as a powerful microbial factory—transforming organic matter into biology that drives healthier, more productive soils. 

It’s a simple concept with big implications for pasture performance, resilience, and long-term farm sustainability.

This is a practical, back-to-basics conversation about building soil from the ground up—working with nature, not against it. 

If you’re looking to improve soil function, boost pasture health, or just better understand the biology under your boots, this episode is a great place to start.

To find out more about Nutrisoil, 

visit nutrisoil.com.au

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In part two of my chat with Andrew Kettlewell, we dig deeper into the people, moments and decisions that helped shape his career in agriculture and business.

Andrew reflects on lessons learned along the way — from global companies to grassroots agriculture — and why staying connected to the land and community still matters.

It’s a conversation about opportunity, perspective and the long road from Jerilderie to a remarkable career in agriculture.

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Andrew Kettlewell grew up in the Riverina town of Jerilderie, but his story stretches a long way beyond the family farm. In this first episode, Andrew shares the early chapters — growing up in the country, chasing opportunities, and the experiences that shaped his path into farm management.

From small-town beginnings to rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest names in the business world, it’s a fascinating look at how curiosity, hard work and a willingness to say yes can take you a long way.

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In this episode, I’m on a property just south of Yass in NSW, joining a research project funded by Meat & Livestock Australia and led by Dr Rebecca Haling from CSIRO.

We’re taking a closer look at serradella — a self-regenerating legume that’s drought resilient, fixes nitrogen, handles acidic soils, runs on low nutrients, and carries a low bloat risk. It’s already proven in WA and north-west NSW, and now researchers are exploring its fit in the higher rainfall pasture zones of south-eastern Australia.

I speak with Dr Richard Hayes from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development about where serradella works and how to establish it with confidence. We also hear from Ed, a local Merino producer seeing strong results — with one key lesson: get that first year of grazing right.

If pasture resilience is on your radar, this episode’s for you.

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In Part B, Dom Shanahan gets into the heart of what matters most—people, safety, and smart decisions on and off the road.

We talk driver safety, B-triples, leadership, and how Dom’s business evolved, including his move from cattle and sheep, to cattle only and the thinking behind that shift. Dom also shares some memorable stories about the characters in his fleet, including the female drivers who’ve made their mark.

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In Part A, I sit down with a mate of mine, Dom Shanahan, to hear the story behind the man and the miles.

Dom started with just one truck, and today runs a major livestock transport operation with 35 B-doubles on the road. He takes us through his early days, the risks, the setbacks, and the decisions that shaped his journey from the ground up.

It’s a grounded, honest conversation about building a company, earning your stripes, and what it really takes to keep wheels turning in Australia’s livestock transport game—told with Dom’s trademark humour and straight talk.

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In Part B with Sam Davies, we explore the intersection of agriculture, education, and purpose.

Sam shares how her work with Petaurus Education Group is connecting students with the environment in meaningful, hands-on ways—taking learning beyond the classroom and into wetlands, waterways, and the landscapes that shape rural Australia.

We talk about the power of small moments in education, the resilience of country communities, and what drives Sam to keep giving back to the places that shaped her. Along the way, she reflects on family, influence, and a remarkable early achievement that hints at the leadership path she’s been walking for years.

This is a thoughtful conversation about impact, curiosity, and the quiet power of caring deeply about place and people.

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In Part A, Sam Davies takes us through the twists and turns of her journey—from growing up on a farm in New South Wales, to teaching in some of Australia’s most remote communities, and eventually landing on a station near Hay.

We talk about her early years, what drew her into teaching, and her time with the School of the Air in Katherine—where classrooms look very different and connection means something deeper.

Along the way, Sam shares how she fell in love with Andrew, the realities of running dual-purpose Marinos, and the leap into growing cotton. It’s a conversation about adapting, building a life in the country, and the opportunities that come with saying yes to change.

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We head back to Chambers Rosewood Vineyards with Stephen Chambers as harvest comes into sharp focus.

Picking season is hectic, fast-paced, and full of decisions — from grape varieties and timing, to the ongoing challenges of smoke taint from bushfires and increasingly unpredictable seasons. Stephen walks us through the shift from hand picking, to mechanical harvesting, and back again, and what those choices mean in the glass.

We also talk fortified wines — world-famous, and sometimes more than a century in the making — including an 1890 Muscat still quietly waiting its moment. Stephen reflects on his father, Bill Chambers, a legend of Australian wine who worked well into his 80s, and why in this business, good things really do come to those who wait.

And yes — Charlie the cockatoo makes a return appearance.

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Today, we’re at Chambers Rosewood Vineyards with Stephen Chambers — a sixth-generation family winery woven into the fabric of Victoria’s gold country.

These are soils shaped by history: once turned by gold seekers, now nurturing vines, grazing sheep, and generations of stories layered as deep as the roots beneath them.

In Part A, Stephen reflects on the gold days, the pressures of farming through changing seasons, the mishaps that inevitably come with life on the land, and the enduring rhythm that keeps this place moving forward.
We even hear about Hughie the water god — because when you farm, the weather always gets a say.

And just when you think the conversation couldn’t get better, Charlie the cockatoo decides he’s got something to add.

This is a story of land, legacy, and learning as you go — one season at a time.

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Welcome back to Gooramadda Olives for Part B with Rob Whyte.

It starts at breakfast, with a quiet truth: once you use really good olive oil, the tomato sauce bottle doesn’t stand a chance.

We talk about the health benefits of quality olive oil, how the body can respond differently to things like ibuprofen, and why what you choose to cook with actually matters.

Rob shares practical tips for using olive oil every day, pairing olives with wine, and describing flavour without the pretension.

We also dig into awards — local, national and international — pest control, and the patience farming demands.

Because olives don’t do overnight success.
They’re in it for the long game.

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Today we’re at Gooramadda Olives in North East Victoria with Rob Whyte.

Rob grew up on the land near Sydney — until the city grew around him. His career took him from Burke’s Backyard to IT roles with Qantas and IBM, far removed from farming.

Then he and his wife Melanie found Rutherglen. A block with a view near the river came up for sale — and it happened to be an olive farm. They took the leap, changed everything, and now Rob writes just one word on his tax return: farmer.

In this episode, we talk harvest time, why olives must be pressed within hours to lock in flavour, lessons learned the hard way, and the strength of country communities. We also step into the cellar door, where tasting meets education — and where working with Mother Nature is non-negotiable.

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He’s spent years telling other people’s stories — now it’s his turn.

Usually on Salt of the Earth Farm Stories, Darren Grigg is the one behind the microphone, listening and asking the questions.

But for this episode, we’re changing things up.

I’m Leona and this time, Darren is on the other side of the interview. It’s not a role he’s naturally comfortable with, but we gently turn the microphone around and explore the story behind the storyteller.

We talk about his earliest memories growing up on the land, how his career in media began, and what led to the creation of Salt of the Earth Farm Stories. We also reflect on some of the conversations and people from the podcast that have shaped him along the way.

This is a quieter, more personal episode — a chance to get to know the voice you usually hear asking the questions.

Welcome to a different kind of Salt of the Earth Farm Stories — where the host becomes the guest.

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In Part C, the final chapter of this special series, we reflect on the life and legacy of David Grigg.

This episode brings together the threads of a remarkable journey — shaped by work, travel, community, family, and friendships. We slow things down to appreciate the moments that mattered most, the values that guided him, and the changes he witnessed across nearly a century.

It’s been a privilege to share Uncle David’s story, and to celebrate a man who is still going strong, with his 100th birthday just around the corner.

This is Part C of the story of David Grigg — shared with gratitude, respect, and pride.

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In Part B of this special conversation, we continue the story of Uncle David Grigg — moving from early farm life and community involvement to the changes that reshaped his working world.

Uncle David shares stories of his first car, the Hillman Minx, the shift from horsepower to tractors, and the arrival of his first McCormick Deering on steel wheels. We also hear about a difficult turning point — having to leave the farm — and how that led him into town, into new work, and into everything from sales to an unexpected ten-year role at BTV 6.

Along the way, there are tales of a VW Kombi, outback stations, School of the Air, national parks, and a wonderful yarn about Gertie the tractor.

This is Part B of the story of David Grigg — full of heart, humour, and lived experience.

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In this special episode, it’s a true privilege to share the story of my great uncle David — a quiet gentleman whose life spans nearly a century of Australian history.

Born in 1926, David grew up on the land during a time of hardship and simplicity: no electricity, one bath a week, horses working the paddocks, cows milked by hand, and seasons shaped by drought, rabbits and resilience. At just 14, he left school to work the farm, and during wartime, while others went to battle, he was sent home with a powerful instruction — to produce food for the nation.

From earning one pound a week, to a 72-year marriage with the love of his life, Uncle David’s story is one of endurance, humility and love.

This episode is a reminder of the vital role farmers play in feeding our country — and a tribute to a life lived with quiet strength.

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We're joined by Dr Robin Adair from Australis Biological — one of Australia’s most experienced and passionate experts on invasive weeds.

With more than a thousand exotic plant species in Victoria, Robin explains why the battle for biodiversity is more urgent than ever. We dig into the surprising plant still being sold in nurseries that’s quietly choking our habitat, explore why blackberry is such a resilient opponent, and unpack the smart use of tools like biocontrol, herbicides, and even goats.

From AI-driven drones that can spot and spray individual weeds, to the deep science of roots, crowns, and plant persistence — Robin reminds us that at the centre of all good management is a simple truth: nature remains our greatest teacher.

www.australisbiological.com.au

This episode is proudly brought to you by the Victorian Blackberry Taskforce. Working with communities to tackle Blackberry, together.

www.vicblackberrytaskforce.com.au

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In Part B of our journey to Curtin Springs Station, we’re back with the unstoppable Lyndee Severin. This episode dives into the daily dance of running a cattle station while welcoming travellers from all over — and why sometimes, you just have to roll with whatever the outback throws at you.

From hilarious tourist moments to thoughtful reflections on how disconnected kids can be from where their food comes from, this conversation is equal parts warm, funny, and eye-opening. We also explore the deeper meaning of Mt Connor — not just a stunning landmark, but a sacred place for the Severin family.

More than a story about farming, this is a conversation about purpose, philosophy, and finding “the good thing” in every single day.

Curtin Springs Station is a must visit for all.

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In this episode, we head to Curtin Springs Station — a one-million-acre cattle station in the Northern Territory with a story like no other.

Lyndee Severin joins us to share how her family turned a humble 1950s stopover into a thriving outback destination. From welcoming travellers with a simple cuppa to hosting thousands each year, Curtin Springs has become a place where people connect deeply with the landscape.

One of the most unexpected experiences? Making beautiful, handcrafted paper from native grasses grown on the station — a hands-on, creative way to feel the outback in every fibre.

We talk dark skies, desert connections, and Lyndee’s uncanny ability to make a spreadsheet dance in a tutu.

A story of innovation, imagination, and the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

www.curtinsprings.com

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Episode 80 – Weed Warriors on Four Legs: Dan Humpage from EnviroGraze

In today’s episode, we sit down with Dan Humpage from EnviroGraze — home to some of the cleverest weed-eating warriors on the land. These goats aren’t just grazing; they’re actively restoring balance to our native landscapes.

Dan’s method is a prescribed remedy for ecological repair — thoughtful, sustainable, and surprisingly scientific.

We unpack how these remarkable animals help suppress weeds, add nitrogen back into the soil, and encourage the return of native species. Dan also shares how he trains his team — including Velvet, the calm and wise matriarch who leads the herd with quiet authority. And it’s not just the land benefiting. These goats spark conversations, curiosity, and community wherever they roam.

This is a fascinating yarn about innovation, ecology, and the power of human–animal teamwork.

Proudly brought to you by Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups 

The Kiewa Catchment Landcare - Busting Blackberries- Building Awareness in the Kiewa Catchment project is supported by the Victorian Government through the Partnership Against Pests.

Tune in — you’ll never look at goats the same way again.

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We’re back at Curtin Springs Station in the Northern Territory for Part B of my yarn with Ash Severin — and this half of the story cuts deep.

Ash takes us through the evolution of mustering, from horses to choppers to trap yards, and what it’s like balancing life alongside dingoes, goannas, and even wild camels — right up until the bull camels start causing chaos.

He opens up about a fire that burned for seven months, moments of tragedy and resilience, and the personal heartbreaks that have shaped the man he is today.

It’s raw, honest, and deeply human. A story of endurance, loss, and grit in the heart of the outback.

If you need to talk, Lifeline’s here — 13 11 14.

www.curtinsprings.com

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This week we’re out at Curtin Springs Station in the heart of the Northern Territory, having a yarn with Ash Severin — a tough, no-nonsense outback bloke with a lifetime of stories from one of Australia’s most remote cattle stations.

From the early days in the 1950s, when the homestead was little more than a roof and four posts, to the station’s transformation into a bustling stopover for travellers near Uluru — Ash has seen it all. He shares cracking yarns about mustering on horseback, life-saving ingenuity, switching to Murray Grey cattle, solar pumps, and even how a Nuffield scholarship took him all the way to England.

A straight-up, salt-of-the-earth man with grit, humour, and heart — this is one outback story you don’t want to miss.

If you need to talk, Lifeline’s here — 13 11 14.

www.curtinsprings.com

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Breaking Barriers, Building Joy

In Part B of our powerful chat with Sam Longmore, we go even deeper—into life, disability, creativity, and shaking up what success really looks like.

From launching a mobile bar and a wool business, to starting her own sold-out workshop series (‘Oh Bull Dust’), Sam’s not just surviving—she’s creating a life packed with purpose, laughter, and bold moves.

She opens up about the future of Ag, accessibility, and breaks some personal news for the first time publicly.

Honest, hilarious, and inspiring—this one’s got heart.

And check out her ohh bulldust website

https://ohhbulldust.myshopify.com