Watching to Working: My experience growing up and working on a farm.

Growing up on a family farm, agriculture has and will always be a constant presence in my life. From a young age I watched my older brother immerse himself in the farming way of life, spending countless hours with my dad, uncle and grandpa, learning the ropes. Meanwhile I would find myself watching from the sidelines, more of an observer rather than a participant. Truthfully farming didn’t interest me back then. I probably believed, like many young women growing up in an agricultural setting, that farming was a ‘mans world’. That unspoken message was clear and without realising I probably internalised that belief.  

Throughout my childhood whilst my brother was actively involved, I only helped out during the school holidays with small tasks – rouging wild oats, picking tatties in the grading shed – but I never felt like I had a real place on the farm. The big jobs, the ones that seemed like they mattered to me, were reserved for the guys and I did not show any enthusiasm towards them, until I turned 18!


Rouging tatties 2022 


I had just gotten into university and practically dropped out of 6th year in school, eager to start working and saving up money in a job that would actually interest me. Farming started to interest me, so with strong encouragement from my family, I cautiously decided to dive in , this time with a real interest in the work. Nervous was an understatement, however my dad takes a no-nonsense approach and without his (somewhat forceful) encouragement and my brother and uncles teaching, I don't think I would have been brave enough to step foot in a tractor.  



The first field I worked in 2022!

 

What began as curiosity definitely has now turned into something deeper. My knowledge and love for farming has continued to grow over the last three years, and I am still continuing to learn new things every day. As my knowledge has expanded, so too has my role on the farm. I have taken on and am confident when it comes to preparing for potato planning – a crucial part of our farms operations. This past season, I took on most of the ridging responsibilities, ensuing the ground was prepared. I have also stepped up and helped my dad strategise crop planting and harvest. 

 

My first harvest, working alongside my uncle


Sowing and harvest season are some of the busiest times on the farm, and I take pride in being able to lend a hand wherever I am needed. During those busy moments on the farm when I’m working alongside my family, I realise how far I have come, comparing myself to three years ago. There’s a sense of accomplishment that I’m no longer just watching from the sidelines – I’m an active part of the farm’s success. 


 

Of course, farming doesn’t come without challenges and I’m well aware there is still so much to learn. I recognise that no matter how much experience you get, there is always room to grow, and a new way to do something. With each season my confidence builds, and I feel like the industry is a space where I belong. 

 

Comments

  1. Fi and JohnOctober 30, 2024 at 8:30 AM

    Your enthusiasm shines through, which is lovely, and the can do attitude is admirable. Well done, and keep it up.

    ReplyDelete

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