R.M.Williams OUTBACK

Brendan Cullen shares his journey from rural Australia to swimming the English Channel, overcoming mental health challenges, and advocating for rural mental health awareness. Discover his training secrets, personal struggles, and how vulnerability transformed his life. Some highlights: • Brendan's feature in Great Australians and his feelings about it • Training for the English Channel swim and the challenges faced • Advocacy for rural mental health and Brendan’s role in support programs • The power of vulnerability and helping others • Experiences swimming the English Channel and the challenges • Life after the swim: work, recovery, and community • Advice for those struggling with mental health  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This conversation delves into the concept of gap years in Australia, exploring the diverse experiences of young people who take a year off between school and further education or work. Journalist Kirsty McKenzie shares insights from her feature in Outback Magazine, highlighting the motivations, benefits, and challenges faced by gappers, including financial considerations, personal growth, and the impact on future studies. The discussion also touches on the emerging trend of 'golden gappers' – older individuals seeking new experiences after retirement. Overall, the podcast emphasises the value of gap years in shaping young people's lives and careers. Key takeaways: Many Australian school leavers are taking gap years. Gap years are not just for school leavers; older individuals are also participating. Attitude is more important than background for gap year success. Rural students find gap years particularly appealing for financial reasons. Research shows gap years have little effect on degree completion. Students return from gap years more motivated and focused. The gap year industry is growing, with many businesses offering programs. Volunteering during a gap year can be costly. Career opportunities in agriculture and hospitality are abundant for gappers. Golden gappers are redefining the concept of taking a break later in life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging conversation, Terri Cowley interviews Allan Hood, CEO of Bulla, who shares his journey from the alcohol industry to leading one of Australia's oldest dairy companies. The discussion covers Bulla's partnership with R.M.Williams, the importance of farmer relationships, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the future of the dairy industry in Australia. Allan emphasises the significance of family values, product innovation, and the need for sustainable practices in the dairy sector. Some key takeaways: Allan Hood transitioned from the alcohol industry to ice cream. Bulla has a long-standing partnership with R.M.Williams. The collaboration has fostered pride and unity among employees. Bulla sources milk from over 270 family farms. The new ice cream factory will enhance production capacity. COVID-19 led to unexpected growth in ice cream sales. The dairy industry faces challenges from rising costs and competition. Bulla is committed to remaining a family-owned business. Sustainability is crucial for the future of dairy. There are opportunities for growth in the Australian dairy market. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matthew Flinders' 1914 Terra Australis map was the first to name Australia and the first to picture it as a self-contained island continent. In this talk with Flinders biographer Grantlee Kieza we delve into the man behind the map. Why did he do what he did and who was he? What is his relevance today?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charity Little Wings connects children with lifesaving healthcare services – for free, in NSW and Queensland. Last year, they travelled 250,000km by road and 500,000km by air to transport children to their five partner hospitals and essential medical services in major cities. Hear from CEO Clare Pearson about what it's like to lift little lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jackie Elliott has created the type of events she wanted for herself, to be able to make connections and find friendships with like-minded rural women. Since a one-off event seven years ago, Rural Woman's Day has evolved into a multi-state events calendar centred on celebrating rural women and building lasting networks that reduce isolation and build capacity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With thriving horticulture and pastoralism industries, and 2.4 million tourist visitor nights a year, the Gascoyne region is an often-forgotten powerhouse. Hear from one of its champions, Gascoyne Development Commission CEO Tim Bray.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiny Holly is one of WA's most sought after auctioneers, whether of livestock or at a corporate gig. He has helped raise more than $45 million for charity, which is so impressive by any measure. That Tiny has done this through a life with dyslexia, depression, anxiety, and type 2 diabetes resulting in the loss of both legs, is pretty incredible. These challenges led to a new purpose – speaking up about mental health in order to help others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.