Sometimes, the best conversations are the ones you have with old friends. Recently, I had the privilege of hosting Gina and Tony Howard, or Chongy as he’s affectionately known, on the Warble podcast. We’ve known each other for quite some time, and our lives have intersected in some truly remarkable ways.
One of the most memorable was our time together in Kunanara in 2024, where we were involved in teaching at an indigenous Grazing for Profit® School. It was an extraordinary experience, and I was genuinely moved watching Gina and Tony connect with the students. Their ability to impart wisdom and share their experiences was something special. I found myself simply in awe, cheering them on from the sidelines.
During our podcast chat, it became abundantly clear that family is the cornerstone of their lives. Tony spoke with immense pride about their children and the commitment they made to ensuring they received a solid education. They wanted their kids to have the tools to build their own paths, to have choices. And now, they’re relishing their role as grandparents, cherishing the time they spend with their four grandchildren.
But their story isn’t just about family. It’s a story of resilience and hard work. Tony was refreshingly candid about their journey, acknowledging that they didn’t necessarily follow a traditional academic route. However, they compensated for any perceived shortcomings with sheer determination and a relentless work ethic. As he put it, “We worked really hard.” It was a testament to their character, their willingness to put in the effort to create a good life for themselves and their family.
One of the most poignant moments of our conversation came when I asked them what they hoped their great-great-grandchildren would remember about them. Tony’s response was deeply touching. He expressed his hope that they would remember him as a caring and compassionate person, someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He wanted to leave a legacy of kindness and generosity.
And Gina? Tony described her as a strong, principled Aboriginal woman, someone who always spoke her mind, regardless of the consequences. She’s a woman of unwavering integrity, someone who isn’t afraid to stand up for what she believes in. He also mentioned how she has a thoughtful nature, and says things that need to be said, where others might not.
It struck me how these qualities—compassion, strength, and integrity—are the hallmarks of their character. They’re the kind of people who make a real difference in the lives of those around them. Their impact extends far beyond their immediate family; they’ve touched the lives of countless individuals within their community.
Working alongside them, I’ve witnessed firsthand their dedication to their community and their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. They embody the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion, and they serve as an inspiration to us all.
Our conversation was a reminder that true greatness isn’t measured by material possessions or accolades. It’s measured by the impact we have on the lives of others, by the kindness we show, and by the legacy we leave behind. Gina and Tony Howard, you are a testament to that truth.
It was an absolute privilege to have them on the podcast, and I’m already looking forward to our next conversation. There are so many more stories to share, so much more wisdom to glean.
Who are the people who have inspired you in your life? Who are the individuals who have left an indelible mark on your heart? Let’s celebrate the real stories of real people who make a difference in our world.
Like to know more about RCS? Start by calling our office on 1800 356 004 and ask to speak with our Chief of Delivery David McLean
Profitable Paddocks is our educational newsletter sent to your email inbox every quarter.
Click the Bell for the latest blogs.
Old friends, deep talks. That's what happened on the Warble podcast with Gina and Tony "Chongy" Howard. Our shared history, especially teaching at an Indigenous Grazing for Profit® School in Kunanara, 2024, made for an incredible conversation. Watching Gina and Tony connect with the students was truly inspiring. RCS' Nic Kentish was just happy to witness their magic.
David McLean and Matt Barton from RCS discuss the importance of financial literacy for agribusinesses, particularly in managing market variability. They emphasise the need to differentiate between gross margins and profitability, focusing on analysing overheads and enterprise comparisons. They highlight the value of regular management accounting and the control it provides, advocating for their Business Fundamentals workshops, available both online and in-person, to help business owners gain financial control and make informed decisions, ultimately reducing stress and improving profitability.
Join David McLean and Matt Barton from RCS as they discuss the critical link between grass management and profitability for graziers. Straight from Matt's "territory" in Dubbo, they share insights from the recent Executive Link meeting, where feed inventory was a hot topic!
We've all been there: waiting for the next rain, hoping for a market upturn. But successful farming isn't about waiting; it's about acting. It's about taking control of the variables you can manage—your grass, your finances, and your livestock—and positioning your business for resilience, regardless of what the season throws your way.
What if the key to regenerative agriculture isn't about cutting out inputs, but about boosting profits? Turns out, that's exactly what many successful farmers are discovering. Learn how a focus on the bottom line can lead to unexpected ecological benefits, and why the term "regenerative" needs a fresh perspective...
Join our mailing list
