Moo-ve over, boys! EMMA'S MAKING HISTORY

The young farmer has landed the admiration of a nation

- Ruth Jillings

When Emma Poole accepted the award for the 2023 FMG Young Farmer of the Year, she joked, “We’ve finally knocked the grass ceiling off the roof!”

The accomplished 28-yearold, veterinarian and top farmer is the first woman to be awarded the prestigious title in the competition’s 55-year history, taking home $90,000 for her efforts.

“Winning the award has been so positive,” says Emma, explaining that this year, of the 180 contestants, approximately one-third were women. “It’s not just about me and what I’ve achieved, but about us all moving forward together and where the industry is heading.

“I know people think I might not have as much physical strength, but there are some areas as a woman where I am advantaged.

“My ability to multitask sets me apart because I can juggle my normal life and job. Being a mum, I am so used to my days being thrown out of whack by a toddler, I’m super efficient with my time.”

Over three days, Emma, who is a mother to 18-month old Beau, proved herself during the competition with challenges designed to test her knowledge and skills in all areas of farming. Everything from repairing machinery and creating a hydroponic system to managing hypothetical disgruntled employees was tested under scrutiny.