Young farmers in the Northern Rivers region will have a better chance at success with the relaunch of Young Farmers Connect (YFC).
Previously Northern Rivers Young Farmers Alliance, YFC will be relaunching this month as a national not-for-profit organisation.
It will be incorporating the activity of a growing number of active regional chapters that exist throughout Australia.
Groups are currently operating in northern NSW, south-east Queensland, mid-coast NSW, greater Melbourne and Western Australia.
These groups facilitate networking events, workshops, field days and information sharing.
"We are a collaborative group that works to ensure collective success for new, young and aspiring farmers," Young Farmers Connect principle co-ordinator Joel Orchard said.
"Our group empowers people to connect with the land, their food and each other.
"YFC is a community for farmers by farmers that provides a national framework for peer support and a network that facilitates opportunities, land sharing, collaboration, education and industry support.
"We understand the barriers and challenges for new farmers and advocate for resources and supportive pathways to mobilise them into the agricultural sector, revitalise our rural communities and transform the way we produce, supply and consume nutritious, clean food.
"The average age of an Australian farmer is now nearly 60, vast amounts of our soils have been degraded by industrial agriculture and a changing climate threatens the quality and the security of our food and health.
"We are committed to being stewards of the land, soil and sea and creating sustainable food systems for all.
"By empowering a community of regenerative and ecological farmers, we can create dynamic, nourishing, vibrant and engaging careers in agriculture.
"We are an alliance that believes in a bright and prosperous future for our next generation farmers.
"YFC is now looking to develop new regional chapters and will continue to build upon a portfolio of resources, to gather and distribute opportunities to our members while amplifying the messages and activities of our allied projects and strategic partners.
"Most importantly, we will celebrate the stories, indulge in the success and bear the burdens of the failures together."
Young Farmers Connect will be having its official launch and membership drive at Primex 2019 in Casino, NSW, from May 16 to 18.
- Visit: www.youngfarmersconnect.com.au