Farming for the Future: Lessons from Award-Winning Innovators

It’s always inspiring to see how farmers are adapting and innovating to meet the challenges of modern agriculture. We recently came across the story of Tom and Fiona Langford, who were recognised as the 2025 Share Farmers of the Year in New Zealand. Their journey, from careers in food science to managing and owning a significant dairy operation, highlights a powerful trend: the integration of advanced knowledge and a strategic approach to farming. While their specific focus is dairy, the principles they embody resonate strongly with us here at Surge Energy, especially for our regional Australian farming communities.

Tom and Fiona didn't start out as farmers, and that's a really interesting point. Both have solid scientific backgrounds, with degrees in areas like human nutrition, food science, and dairy science. They met while working for Fonterra, a major dairy co-operative, gaining valuable experience in technical roles and management. This background gave them a unique advantage when they decided to move into farming. Instead of being purely hands-on from day one, they brought a strong foundation in science, technology, and business management to the farm.

What's particularly inspiring is how they approached their farming career. They didn't shy away from learning on the job. Fiona admitted she hadn't even done a full milking before managing her parents' dairy farm, but with practical advice and a willingness to learn, she excelled. They then went on to become equity partners, demonstrating a smart financial strategy. By taking on contract milking roles, they were able to grow their equity quickly, achieving their financial goals while also gaining invaluable experience.

Their approach to work and life is also worth noting. They actively job-share, balancing their farming responsibilities with raising their three young sons. This flexibility is crucial for family farms, and it’s something that can be greatly enhanced by smart energy solutions. Imagine a farm where essential tasks can be managed remotely or automated, freeing up valuable time for family or other business development.

Tom and Fiona also place a high value on their team. They’re passionate about developing their staff, helping them progress into higher positions. This focus on people and culture, alongside their strong business acumen, is a hallmark of successful modern agricultural operations. Their win at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards, picking up numerous merit awards including those for people and culture, business performance, leadership, and sustainability, is a testament to this holistic approach.

So, what can we learn from Tom and Fiona for our own farming communities here in Australia?

Firstly, education and continuous learning are key. Whether it's formal qualifications or on-the-job training, staying informed and adaptable is vital. This extends to understanding new technologies and how they can benefit the farm.

Secondly, strategic business planning is essential. Like Tom and Fiona, looking at ways to build equity, improve efficiency, and manage finances effectively is crucial for long-term success. This is where solutions like solar microgrids come into play. By generating your own power, you can significantly reduce your energy costs, providing a predictable and lower expense that directly impacts your bottom line. This saved capital can then be reinvested into the business, perhaps for new equipment, staff development, or expanding your operations, just as Tom and Fiona did.

Thirdly, flexibility and work-life balance are increasingly important. While farming is demanding, smart solutions can offer greater control over your time and energy. Reliable, self-generated power means less dependence on grid outages or fluctuating grid prices, offering greater certainty. This can be particularly beneficial for farms looking to invest in automated solutions or robotics, which require a consistent and affordable power supply.

Finally, sustainability is not just good for the planet, it's good for business. Tom and Fiona were recognised for their environmental efforts, highlighting how responsible practices can lead to awards and recognition. Harnessing renewable energy like solar power is a significant step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective farming operation.

At Surge Energy, we're excited by the dedication and innovation shown by farmers like Tom and Fiona. We believe that by embracing clean energy solutions, regional Australian farmers can achieve greater energy independence, reduce operating costs, and set themselves up for a thriving future, much like the award-winning success of these Kiwi farmers.

If you're looking to reduce your energy bills and gain more control over your farm's power supply, get in touch with Surge Energy today. Let's explore how we can help your farm thrive with reliable, clean energy.