"I don't wanna stuff it up": Jono Mudge takes on the family farm with a fresh mindset
The drought gripping much of South Australia is enough to make anyone’s motivation slide.
But Baroota mixed farmer Jono Mudge says he’s gradually learning to “let go of ego” and open up to outside help to guide his business.
The expert mentors he’s connected with through LivestockSA’s AgRi-Silience program have helped shift his mindset and given him a renewed sense of enthusiasm across his home and work life.
“We’re a young couple taking over a family business and we don’t want to stuff it up,” he says.
“We wanted to learn more about our business and how we can make it better - resilience, sustainability, that sort of thing… to future-proof it.
“It was a no brainer.”
The AgRi-silience program came at the perfect time to help Jono deflect his attention away from the seemingly endless dust, to what he can control.
“We always talk about having goals but you never actually sit down and do it. Looking at a strategic plan was a key thing straight up.”
From the humble workshop whiteboard to navigating new apps, Jono finds simple tools are leading him to better communicate with family members and a smoother operation of his business day-to-day.
Key takeaways:
Engaging outside experts was key in shifting Jono's mindset and setting strategic goals
Professional development is a crucial part of building a sustainable and resilient business
Planning family time before farm expansion helps maintain a healthy work-life balance
About AgRi-silience
AgRi-Silience is part of the Farm Business Resilience Program, delivered by Livestock SA and jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Government of South Australia. Learn more at www.livestocksa.com.au.
Cut out dinner
It's a challenging time for many, but the AgRi-Silience Cut Out dinner is a great opportunity to come together and gain strength from shared stories and ideas. Book your seat at the AgRi-silience Cut Out Dinner at Sunnybrae Estate in Adelaide on June 20th. Tickets are just $65 for alumni and $80 for industry participants.
Hear from other participants of the AgRi-Silience program Mark & Rachel McInerney here.
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