Sharon Smith

I grew up in Tīraumea on a generational farm with my parents, grandparents and siblings. My elders embedded strong values in me, and every day I use something one of them has taught me, whether it be within farming or another aspect of my life.

My husband and I have carried on those tried-and-true values with our children on our farm, Winiata, in Alfredton. Family is an important part of living on a farm. We work together and create memories every day together on the land – it’s part of the enjoyment. I feel blessed to have been able to raise our two girls in this way. I have been able to adjust my world around my children’s needs: being home when they get off the school bus, going to sporting and school events and spending gorgeous days with them on the farm as a family.

Together, my husband, David, and I have made our farm a successful business through hard work and passion. We have had to work hard with the girls in tow, and from early on they would come along with us to do any jobs the farm demanded. We always had their trusty play tent put up next to the Prattley yards and always allowed them to join in when they could. What a great way to bring up kids!

In farming we face the good and the bad. The girls have seen the raw of life on the farm and every emotion it brings. Our girls have been there during the downturns and droughts, when Mum and Dad aren’t sleeping because of the worry, and in celebration when we achieve our goals. They have lived it all, and you can see it in the way they are now. Both our girls will still only have short showers because they know the value of water and that it is a resource to be treasured.

Within farming, and as a working farming mum, I know the importance of community. This doesn’t mean being on every board, but rather being a neighbour or friend people know they can call on at any point. It’s supporting others in ways that are felt. A simple text message or chat on the road can go a long way for many people, and it brings a smile to my face as well – after all, they are part of our farming family.

Now my children are at the age where they are going off and doing their own things. It’s time for me to start finding myself again. That is a bit scary, but it is just a stage I have to figure out. I do know I don’t want to go anywhere else. I know this will always be my home and I know together we will always be a close family because of the journey we went through together on this land.