Amy Ross-Henderson
I managed to scrape into the under 35s category by a margin, and I was delighted to receive the email letting me know that I would be able to attend the conference. I am a high school teacher (with four young boys) but I’m looking to make the move into supporting my husband who is an agricultural contractor with his business, however I am not quite sure what that might entail.
Even though the conference took place at the end of year and the weather outside was definitely wintry – inside there was a warmth and exuberance coming from the delegates. A buzz – and not just over the delicious fudge provided! Nor forgetting the mince pies!
However, hard issues were also being aired. Even whilst dunking shortbread into our coffee. Succession and sustainability kept on being mentioned, from the platform and in smaller conversations. A real concern – about how the family pie can be grown? How can agritourism provide sustainability for the next generation? How can we all get a slice? One such place, “The Bus Stop”, had very clear communications round the family table about the future and how members can be actively involved. Balfour Stewart spoke with insight on this matter, whilst showcasing the amazing accommodation on site. They have used buses to provide a variety of accommodation styles including luxury and off the grid.
Another key theme developed throughout the conference, and was touched on by many speakers; multiple income revenues. More over generating income using by-products. For one speaker this was in the physical sense: selling wool to guests, but for others it could be tapping into the experience side and even providing educational and corporate events based on existing farm activities.