Farewell from FFN Chair, Caitlin McConnel
Last week at the FFN AGM held on 19 November 2024, I formerly retired as a Non-Executive Director and Chair of FFN. Whilst the decision to move on from a representative role with FFN is one that I made with a very heavy heart; the effluxion of time calls for change for us all, and it is with extraordinarily fond memories that the FFN Chapter in my story comes to an end.
I joined the FFN Board at a time when the organisation was approaching its 20th year, and when the fragmentation of Australia’s agricultural sector – both inter and intra commodity – was making it increasingly difficult for young aggies to network and build professional development capabilities in a safe, apolitical space. Indeed there were concerns about whether the mission of the Future Farmers Network – and even its name – remained relevant, in circumstances where our members did not consider, or considered themselves more than ‘just farmers’.
At the Young Beef Producers’ Forum in Roma earlier this month, a question was raised by a member of the audience as to how she could possibly call herself a farmer, or identify as a key player in the agriculture industry, if she did not own land or identify as a primary producer.
My answer to that was through a quote penned by one of the founders of the Future Farmers of America over 100-years ago:
“Agriculture is more than planting and harvesting – it’s a science, it’s a business and it’s an art.”
I consider that this statement has never been more relevant, particularly as we navigate the impact of emerging environmental protection legislation and sustainability requirements on agriculture. And whilst I am a sixth-generation farmer, it is through my work as a lawyer and industry representative that it’s become abundantly clear how critical first-generation aggies across all professions – not just as farmers – are to the success of our industry.
Looking back, agriculture has always been more than just farmers, or one just one commodity. It is all encompassing, and I am extraordinarily proud to have had the opportunity to work alongside, and learn from, some of the most remarkable, likeminded young agricultural professionals across Australia to ensure that every young person – regardless of their level of experience – feels welcomed, actively included, and supported in our sector.
Being a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Future Farmers Network has been my greatest honour to date, and afforded me opportunities in the sector I never imagined possible. To that end, I would like to wholeheartedly thank every director, CEO, executive officer, sponsor, and supporter I have had the privilege to meet, work with and learn from over the past 5-years.
In particular, I would like to acknowledge the invaluable support provided to me by the entire 2024 FFN Board, especially Lauren Roellgen, Will Atkinson & Majella Nolan who have shown me an indescribable level of compassion during what has been my most challenging year as a ‘young aggie’.
The Future Farmers Network, and the future of Australian agriculture, is in extraordinary hands; and I can’t wait to see the organisation continue to go from strength to strength in the years to come.