Rabobank Session Aims to Support Farming Families
Farmers in far north Queensland have a unique chance to learn about family farm succession and business transition at a free session hosted by Rabobank. This informative Business Transition and Succession Planning session is scheduled for Atherton on 21st May 2026.
Organized by Rabobank’s Queensland Rabo Client Council, the session offers valuable advice on improving family communication and addressing diverse family goals during business transitions. With a limit of 30 participants, the event remains open to all, not just Rabobank clients.
Leading the session, Jim Benson, Director of Transition Partners, will share scenarios that illustrate family enterprise succession and potential challenges. This session aims to provide an information-sharing experience rather than addressing specific family issues.
Interactive Session Details
Participants will learn how to initiate discussions on succession, organize meetings about management and property, and resolve conflicts. Polly Saraiva, Rabobank’s Queensland State Manager, stressed the importance of open communication for successful business transitions. “By making informed decisions and keeping communication open, families can build strategies that support the core values of their family farm,” she stated.
Since 2024, these sessions have educated over 770 participants nationwide, highlighting the importance of early planning to avoid conflicts. Ravenswood beef producer Sonia Spurdle, Chair of the Queensland Rabo Client Council, also encourages early planning. “Transitioning a farm business successfully involves much more than just legal or financial considerations,” she noted.
In addition, the event in Atherton is part of a series of sessions across Australia, led and funded by Rabo Client Councils. These councils comprise innovative farming clients committed to enhancing the vibrancy and resilience of rural Australia.
Participants are expected to arrive by 8:00 am, as the Atherton session will run until 2:00 pm, featuring morning tea and lunch. Interested parties should register via the Rabobank website to secure their attendance.
The session includes practical tools to aid in the planning process, helping families settle conflicts and address issues related to family dynamics. Participants will focus on building strategies that align with the core values of the family farm.
