Free Session to Aid Farming Families
Rabobank is organising a free Business Transition and Succession Planning session in Mount Gambier on 1st July 2026. This event aims to assist Limestone Coast farmers with family farm succession and business transition strategies. The session, hosted by Rabobank’s South Australia Rabo Client Council, will be led by Jim Benson, director of Transition Partners. It will provide practical advice on improving family and business communication, making meetings effective, and considering different family goals.
Rabobank’s Rabo Client Councils, composed of innovative clients passionate about rural community impact, fund this series. Since 2024, these councils have delivered 35 sessions across Australia, reaching over 815 participants. Limited to 30 participants, the session is open to all farmers, not just Rabobank clients. It offers an opportunity to engage in group discussions with other farming families, facilitated by Jim Benson’s expertise.
Nikki Kirkland, a Rabo Client Council member and mixed farmer from Millicent, emphasised the importance of early succession discussions. “Families should start talking about succession as early as possible,” she said. “Starting the conversation early can reduce conflict created by differing expectations.”
What to Expect at the Session
The session will explore various scenarios of farm succession and potential issues that could arise. It will not address specific family issues but will offer an information-sharing platform drawing on Jim Benson’s expertise. The event will take place at Mount Gambier from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, with morning tea and lunch provided. Interested farmers are encouraged to register soon due to limited spots.
According to Pete Evans, Rabobank state manager for South Australia, the session is designed to help improve communication among farming families. “The goal is to help improve communication so families can have more effective discussions about succession and business transition planning,” he said. Ms. Kirkland added that running a successful farming business requires focusing on sustainability and continuity. She believes succession planning is central to achieving this, supporting a smooth handover to the next generation.
