BJ’s journey to farm manager

When farm owners Mark and Tania Nevill asked BJ to step more into a manager role, she was hesitant.

“I just didn’t think it was for me or that I’d be able to do it,” BJ says.

They all agreed the Manager/2IC Program would be a good step. Since completing it, BJ has taken charge of day-to-day operations, people management, and planning.

“Some days I do it really well, some days I don’t,” she laughs. “It’s definitely been a learning curve.

The course helped BJ build confidence in managing people, resolving conflict, and creating a positive team culture.

“The course reinforced that I’m not alone. It was good to be around like-minded people and learn from both Adam the facilitator and the group as a collective.

“Hearing about other farmers experiences was so valuable. I’ve been here so long, I’m in my own bubble.  I wouldn’t know how most farms operate, how they go about things, what accidents happen, or what other issues they deal with.

“Being able to hear about the challenges other farmers have faced, and to discuss how you could go about approaching a similar challenge was great. I loved the experience and really got a lot out of it.”

BJ now prioritises planning and time management.

“Taking the time to plan is one of the biggest things I do differently. The more forward planning I do the more it takes the pressure off. The team’s time is spent more efficiently and there is no mad rush at the end to get things done.  We also have time to work around everything that inevitably goes wrong."

She’s also focused on tailoring tasks to peoples’ strengths.

“Knowing their skill sets means I can give them jobs they’ll succeed in. I always remind them to ask if they need instructions explained differently."

Resolving conflict in a productive way is something BJ credits the program for, and the farm team relationships are better for it.

“The program gave me examples of why I should actively resolve conflict. It was clear listening to other participants that the positive outcomes far outweighed not doing anything about an issue.

“I have a better relationship with the team now. I feel like I’ve created a space where they feel more comfortable coming to me with problems or any concerns, even if it’s personal.

“I try to be open and approachable. I want to be a leader, not a boss.”

After 11 years on the farm, BJ says Mark and Tania have supported her growth every step of the way.

“They’ve given me every opportunity to learn. They’re like family now.”

BJ is passing on the value of continuous learning to the two young team members currently on-farm.

“If you allow people to keep bettering themselves it keeps them enjoying things and we get better outcomes. We have got two young team members on farm at the moment. One is studying at TAFE and the other is completing the Dairy Australia Feeding Pasture for Profit Program.”

“I try to create a safe, comfortable and happy space for everyone to work in. Our hours and our days are demanding enough as it is. It can be hard work, but I just love my job.”

Manager/2IC Program 2025

If you’re a manager who would like to further develop your skills, or a senior farm hand looking to take the next step, the Manager/2IC program is for you. Capped at 30 participants and starting on Tuesday 9 September, register now so you don’t miss out: Manager/2IC Course | Dairy Australia