# 161 - How Grower Groups Are Making an Impact with Pippa Jones from Macintyre Ag Alliance

Running a farm comes with its fair share of challenges, and it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day. But some of the biggest opportunities for growth come from stepping outside our own operations, connecting with others, and learning from those facing similar challenges. Stronger businesses, smarter decisions, and a more resilient industry all start with farmers coming together and sharing knowledge. 

 

This episode is all about the power of grower groups - why they matter, the impact they have, and why getting involved can be a game-changer for your farm and business. 

 

I'm joined by Pippa Jones, who, alongside her husband, runs a mixed farm near Goondiwindi, QLD. Beyond the farm, Pippa has played a key role in the Macintyre Ag Alliance, helping to drive innovation and support for local farmers. She also works as an extension officer with NSW Local Land Services and represents the Northern NSW Drought and Innovation Hub. On top of that, she’s a 2024 Nuffield Scholar, exploring how carbon farming can be both a profitable opportunity for farmers and better supported on a global scale. 

 

Together, in this episode, we explore: 

• The critical role of grower groups like Macintyre Ag Alliance and the impact they're having in southern Queensland and northern NSW. 

• Why getting involved in these networks goes far beyond just improving technical farming skills. 

• How simplifying your farm business model can give you the time and space to pursue off-farm interests, leadership roles, and industry impact. 

• Why we should all back ourselves as leaders, even if we don't see ourselves that way just yet. 

 

At Farm Owners Academy, we're proud to be partnering with Macintyre Ag Alliance and other grower groups across Australia to help farmers connect, learn, and thrive. 

 

If you haven't yet, I encourage you to seek out your local grower groups and engage with your regional drought and innovation hubs-they offer invaluable resources and networks that can help you navigate challenges and future-proof your farm business. 

 

You can access more information about the items discussed in the episode below: 

 

• Macintyre Ag Alliance – click here https://www.macintyreagalliance.com/  

• Drought and Innovation Hubs – click here https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/farm-food-drought/drought/future-drought-fund/research-adoption-program/adoption-innovation-hubs  

• Nuffield Scholarships – click here https://www.nuffield.com.au/  

 

Pippa, thank you for your time, your insights, and your leadership. I hope you all enjoy this conversation as much as I did. 

 

Keep winning. 

 

Jeremy Hutchings & the Farm Owners Academy Team