The people side of farming.
What does it take to be a good employer?
How do we attract and keep great people?
How can we build a team where people love their work and feel valued?
These are the questions Denise has focused on for the past decade, both in her own farm business and through her off-farm work.
After starting her career in production, Denise has spent the last ten years specialising in the people side of farming.
Passionate about family farms and rural communities.
With over 25 years in farming and agriculture, Denise brings deep, hands-on experience to her work. She has been actively involved in her family’s farming business, alongside roles in the grains industry across government and private sectors, including agronomy, grower extension, and industry development. Her work with scientists, researchers, and across the supply chain has given her a well-rounded understanding of the grains industry and the broader agricultural sector.
Denise is passionate about sharing stories of farm life and the joys of country living, helping people better understand where their food and fibre come from. She’s a strong advocate for inspiring the next generation to see farming and agriculture as both a rewarding career and a great lifestyle.
In her spare time, Denise enjoys pottering in the garden, spending time with her dogs and horses, and keeping fit with the occasional running event.
She holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, a Master of Business Administration, and is a graduate of both the Australian Rural Leadership Program and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Denise has previously served on the GrainGrowers National Policy Group, the National Farmers' Federation Workforce Committee, and the Victorian Farmers Federation Workforce and Social Infrastructure Committee.