Would you like to increase your farm business management skills, expand your networks, engage with other young sheep producers in Victoria about issues affecting your business, and have access to expert presenters, all without having to leave the couch?

Then the online young farmer BestWool/BestLamb group is for you! The group aims to increase members farm business skills in a group environment without the need to travel.

Agriculture Victoria and Australian Wool Innovation invites young sheep producers to join the Young Farmer Online BestWool/BestLamb group.

The online group was established in April 2018 as an alternative to attending face to face group meetings.

When is the first session?

Monday 29th April at 7.30pm.

If I cannot make the first session, can i still join the group?

Yes, the meetings are recorded, so you can catch up in your own time.

How do the meetings occur?

The group meets using the online free software program, Webex.

I haven’t used Webex before, how do I use it?

Webex is a video conferencing tool that allows people to join from anywhere. The facilitator will send a link, so all you need to do is click the link to join the meeting. New members will have the opportunity to have a practice with the group facilitator using Webex prior to the first session.

How often do the group meet?

The group meets 6-7 times per year.

What do I need to be involved?

A computer or tablet with a camera, headset and a good internet connection is necessary to participate.

What topics will be covered?

The first session will include an opportunity for members to have input on the focus topics for the rest of 2019. Topics during 2018 focused on farm business management skills and included discussing the Livestock Farm Monitor Results.

Who and where are the current members?

The current members include a mix of wool and lamb producers, from a range of locations including Gippsland, Central and Western Victoria.  Property sizes range from 300-3500ha.

Here’s what the current members had to say about their online group experience

• “Doing the group online is a fantastic way to interact with other farmers who I normally wouldn’t have met.” – Jamie 
• “This group was really good exposure to new concepts, great consultants and successful farmers” – Charles
• “The group being targeted to young farmers means the information is at the right level and it’s helped me build a network with peers in similar situations. The knowledge and different perspectives that everyone has brought to the group has been a real insight on how to approach the business of farming.” – Nick

Is there a cost to be involved?

There is no cost to be involved.

How to I join or get more information?

To find out more and to express your interest in joining the group please contact Sarah Wallis, 0419 571 208 or email [email protected]