Opthalmologist Dr Angus Turner believes we can eliminate preventable blindness in Australia – and he's working to achieve this on a number of fronts, including using AI technology to diagnose eye problems on the spot and working with teams of professionals on the ground through his Lions Outback Vision.

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Maz Saunders shares her inspiring journey of transforming rural pubs, her vibrant social media presence, and her heartfelt poetry that celebrates life in the Australian outback. Discover how she combines entrepreneurship, community spirit, and authenticity to make a difference.

Some key points:

• Revitalisation of rural pubs 
• Maz Saunders' social media journey and influence
• The history of the Carinda Hotel and its connection with David Bowie
• Community building and legacy in small towns
• Balancing entrepreneurship with family life

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Peter Kenyon, known as the guru of small towns, shares his insights on community renewal, local leadership, and the power of stories in revitalising rural Australia. Discover practical examples, strategies for engaging youth, and the importance of assets and storytelling in small town reinvention.

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Robert Ravens shares the fascinating story of Tasmania's Bridestowe Lavender Estate, from its ambitious origins to its global reputation for premium lavender products. Discover the innovative history, strategic marketing, and sustainable practices that have transformed this estate into a world-renowned destination and brand.

Some highlights:

• History of Bridestowe Lavender Estate
• Innovations in lavender, cultivation and distillation
• Marketing strategies and social media impact
• Challenges of agricultural management and biosecurity
• Future plans and legacy of the estate

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Photographer Andrew Chapman shares his journey through rural Australia, especially his stunning documentation of the country's disappearing woolsheds and the hard-working shearers within them.

Some highlights:

• Andrew Chapman's first encounters with shearing sheds
• The dramatic light and composition in rural photography
• The importance of honesty in photography
• Capturing the storm at Weja and the power of nature
• Portrait of the drover's wife and rural life
• Andrew Chapman's rural roots and early influences
• Documenting the disappearing sheds and rural heritage
• Andrew Chapman's health journey and transplant experience
• Future projects and the legacy of Andrew Chapman

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In this engaging conversation, Carol Mudford, the Rural Woman of the Year, shares her journey from childhood on a sheep farm to becoming a mental health advocate through her initiative, Shedway. The discussion highlights the importance of community support in rural areas, the challenges faced by women in the shearing industry, and the impact of mental health awareness initiatives. Carol reflects on her experiences with grief, the significance of physical work for mental wellbeing, and the evolving role of women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Key points:

• Carol Mudford is a mental health advocate and Rural Woman of the Year.
• Shedway was created to address mental health issues in the shearing industry.
• Isolation is a significant challenge for shearers regarding mental health.
• Physical work in shearing can positively impact mental well-being.
• Women are increasingly entering the shearing industry, breaking traditional barriers.
• Shedway offers workshops and training for mental health awareness.
• Grief can be processed through work and community connection.
• The importance of recognising and discussing emotions for mental health.

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Rebecca Henry, a dedicated horsewoman and owner of Sugarbag Station in North Queensland, shares her journey from managing a family cattle station to becoming an accomplished equestrian coach and course designer. She discusses her deep connection with horses, her experiences in show jumping, and her commitment to retraining ex-racehorses for new lives. Rebecca reflects on the challenges and rewards of her work, the importance of community, and her future aspirations in the equestrian world.

Some key takeaways

• Rebecca Henry manages Sugarbag Station, a family legacy.
• She has a deep connection with horses, starting from childhood.
• Show jumping became her passion after her first competition.
• Rebecca retrains ex-racehorses to help them adjust to life off the track.
• She emphasises the importance of trust between horse and rider.
• Her education in business management empowered her coaching career.
• Rebecca is actively involved in course design for equestrian events.
• She has international experience in course design, including in Germany.
• Rebecca finds joy in helping horses find their forever homes.

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Brad and Belinda Seymour have reopened the Arltunga Bush Pub in the NT's East Macdonell Ranges, sharing their journey of revitalising this historical site. They discuss their backgrounds, the challenges of running a business in a remote area, and their vision for creating a unique outback experience that combines history, hospitality, and nature. The conversation highlights their commitment to preserving local heritage while providing modern amenities, including glamping accommodations and a flexible dining experience. They also reflect on the beauty of the surrounding landscape and their aspirations for the future.

Some highlights:

• The ArltUnga Bush Pub is a historical site in central Australia.
• Brad and Belinda have deep connections to the land and its history.
• They aim to revitalise the pub and preserve its heritage.
• The couple has experience in aviation and customer service.
• Renovations were extensive and involved local tradespeople.
• Glamping accommodations offer a unique outback experience.
• They provide a flexible dining experience without a set menu.
• The East Macdonell Ranges are often overshadowed by the West Macs.
• They attract both local and international travelers.
• The couple envisions a future filled with events and community engagement.

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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.

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This fascinating conversation between author Vicki Hastrich and host Terri Cowley delves into the final years of Hollywood legend Zane Grey and his trips to Australia to go game fishing and make films.

Some key takeaways:

• Grey filmed the first Jaws-type move on Hayman Island called White Death
• Grey overcame a stroke to come back to Australia to hunt for great white sharks
• When the popular Grey arrived in Australia the response was akin to Beatlemania
• Grey's legacy in Australia included putting it on the map as a fishing destination
• Grey questioned Australia's treatment of its Aborignal peoples

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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.

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