The farming year

As 2012 draws to a conclusion, we can look back on the 'National Year of Reading', and the 'Australian Year of the Farmer'.

The Year of the Farmer was a year-long celebration of the vital role that farmers play in feeding, clothing and providing building materials to house us all.

From small family farms handed down over generations, to our largest agribusinesses, farming is inherent to the Australian way of life.

McCormick-Deering W-6 tractor

Australian Year of the Farmer served to remind us all, from both rural and urban centres, of the critical role of farming in Australia. Agriculture has made and continues to make a significant contribution to our economy and prosperity.

Bullock team carting a load of wool bales

Farms and farmers are vitally import to our rural communities, indeed to our national economy and social fabric. There are approximately 134,000 farm businesses in Australia, 99% are family owned and operated. Each Australian farmer produces enough food to feed 600 people.

And as the grain harvest ramps up it is worth reflecting on some the technological innovations and changes seen on the rural landscape, and how important it is to record and document the local history of the land.

McCormick International 403 combine harvester

So keep those shoe-boxes of old photos, add any information concerning who, where & when on the back, visit an agricultural museum, check out old sheds and barns, and listen to & record the stories & tales of old farmers - all before it's too late.