August 2025 Edition
Well August is almost over, arriving with the depth of winter still lingering, but hints of spring are starting to show! It’s a month of momentum - a time to nurture ideas, tend to ongoing projects, and prepare for the growth that’s just around the corner.
This month, I’ve been reflecting on progress across both long-term initiatives and the day-to-day tasks that keep the business moving. Some areas are advancing steadily, others require a little extra attention and that’s the nature of growth. What matters most is staying focused, prioritising what counts, and keeping sight of the bigger picture.
Wherever August finds you, whether it's reviewing plans, managing livestock, finalising budgets, or simply catching a quiet moment, I hope this edition offers insight, encouragement, and a reminder that every step forward, however small, contributes to the season ahead!
Enjoy the August Chronicle.
August Blog
When you’re running a farm, it’s easy to stay in the weeds—literally and figuratively. There’s always something demanding your attention: livestock, planting, harvest, staff, weather, repairs, invoices - the list never ends. So carving out time to think about the big picture can feel like a luxury. But if you want your farm business to grow - profitably, sustainably, and on your terms - thinking like a CEO isn’t optional. It’s essential.
This article is your invitation (and permission) to step back, put on the CEO hat, and make space for strategic thinking - before another season runs away from you.
Carbon in Horticulture - Virginia
One of the hats I wear is that of workshop facilitator. In August, I had the privilege of taking on that role for the Carbon Farming Outreach Program’s Horticultural Workshop at the Virginia Horticulture Centre.
My job was to set the scene and guide the flow of the afternoon, while Dr Natalie Doran-Browne shared her expertise on emissions in horticulture, supported by Joe Coluccio and the Northern Adelaide Plains Food Cluster.
What stood out for me was how much the 1%ers make a difference. It’s not always the big, sweeping changes that shift the dial - it’s the small, consistent actions that build momentum. That idea resonates strongly with the work I do with my clients: focusing on those incremental shifts that compound into lasting results.
Look out for other Carbon Farming Outreach Program events happening across Australia - and a big thank you to AgEx Alliance for the opportunity and to the Grower Group Alliance (GGA) for leading this national project.
Podcast Recommendation
Produced by Agriculture Victoria, AgVic Talk tackles current challenges including bushfire recovery, drought and climate impacts.
It also features stories of resilience and innovation from farmers across Victoria.
You can access AgVic Talk via the link below, or stream now on Spotify.
Quote of the Month
“Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” – Vincent van Gogh
Running a farm is rarely about one big decision or a single season. It’s about the countless small choices, tasks, and moments of effort that add up over time - from checking water troughs and repairing fences, to planting, harvesting, and investing in new ways of working.
Like Van Gogh’s words suggest, success in farming comes from consistency. It’s the steady work across the weeks, months, and years that builds strong businesses, healthy soils, productive livestock, and thriving families.
It’s easy to feel caught up in the busyness of each day but remember: the small things you do, the ones that may seem routine or unremarkable are what create the bigger picture of your farming future.
Team Update
This month we say farewell to Sarah Earll, who has been such a valued part of the CCM team over the past three years. Sarah’s dedication, positive attitude, and hard work have made a real difference, and she will be greatly missed. We wish her all the very best as she takes on her next endeavour.
At the same time, we’re excited to welcome Elise Holmes (pictured) on board. Elise is an experienced Executive Assistant with over 12 years in local government, where she supported senior leaders and councillors with high-level administration across a wide range of projects and community initiatives.
Elise is known for her calm, proactive approach and her ability to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. We’re excited to have her join the CCM team!
Victorian Drought Support
We find ourselves still in an uncertain season that lies ahead, and many farming businesses are weighing up big decisions – do we buy, lease, cut back, or hold steady?
Through Agriculture Victoria’s drought support program, eligible farmers can access up to 4 hours of 1:1 support with me at no cost. This is your chance to sit down with me, pressure test ideas, build cashflow scenarios, and make clear, considered decisions for your farm business.
If you’ve been carrying the weight of these decisions on your own, now’s the time to get the right support.
Book your 1:1 session with me here 👇
Where in the World is CCM?
Last month's "Where in the World" found CCM visiting Mansfield in the foothills of the Victorian Alps!
This time we’ve hopped across the ocean, but where exactly did we land? See if you can find us! Here are your clues...
1. The rice fields are a peaceful escape, yet just minutes away from a bustling beachside hub.
2. This island is known for its surf, sunsets, and laid-back lifestyle.
3. You’ll find temples, scooters, and offerings of flowers around almost every corner.
Where are we? Drop as a message if you think you might know.
WOW Your Banker
Walking into a bank meeting unprepared can be stressful. If you don’t have a clear cash flow plan, you risk tough questions, delays, or even missed funding opportunities. And with the season ahead, now is the time to get on the front foot.
Our Wow Your Banker service helps you take control—so you can walk in with confidence, present your numbers clearly, and secure the financial backing you need.
Get yourself set up for success now - book a discovery call with Paige!
