Steve Goldsmith shares how Gilgooma Farm opens its gates to show visitors the realities of drought and flood.
This episode of Australian Farmers features host Angie Asimus speaking with Steve and Pip Goldsmith, a father-daughter duo from the 11,500-acre property Gilgooma in northwest New South Wales. The Goldsmiths have diversified their traditional farming operation by launching a farm stay business. Their venture invites visitors to experience daily agricultural activities, from lamb marking to planting crops and fencing.
Steve explains that his favorite place on the farm changes with the season and the work at hand. Pip shares that she loves the shearing shed for its atmosphere and connection to the farm's history. The farm stay offers cabin rentals and camping, allowing guests to observe whatever seasonal work is underway. The Goldsmiths believe it's important to share all aspects of farm life, including challenges like drought or flood. Their goal is to provide a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at food and fiber production.
A key insight is that the venture strengthens the family business by creating a new revenue stream and fostering intergenerational partnership. The hosts emphasize that visitors' curiosity often centers on basic questions about where their food and clothes originate. The farm stay model turns everyday farm chores into an educational experience for city dwellers. The property's vast scale of 11,500 acres provides a dramatic backdrop for showcasing Australian agriculture.
The tone is conversational, educational, and warmly promotional of regional life. The style is a structured interview focused on personal stories and business innovation.
Listeners interested in agritourism, family businesses, or authentic Australian outback experiences would love this episode. Those seeking highly technical farming analysis or political debate might find it too light.
