I studied animal science at University and really enjoyed collecting data. From hours in the lambing shed observing lambing ewes to pasture cutting, weighing and sorting, I am fascinated by measuring and recording to achieve better outcomes.

Shifting focus from healthy sheep and pastures to healthy farmers, the inquisitive side is strong. From lived experience on farms and rural service provider roles working closely with farmers a genuine connection with clients is impossible to avoid in a small rural community. Being an eternal empath I couldn’t help but wonder what is the impact of challenging times on these service providers? And what are we doing to support these people?

I have just started the STaRR Program for emerging researchers with Western Alliance. The early stage researcher program teaches research skills and offers feedback to develop a protocol and complete a literature review.

The cobwebs were dusted off and the cogs are turning. Journal articles and highlighters at the ready I completed the first Zoom session and my concept was trimmed to become a tangible research question.