Young farmer Hannah Bamford helping the agricultural industry connect with workers

Inspired by a cattle pregnancy test, a Young farmer is using technology to help the agricultural industry connect workers with ag jobs.

Hannah Bamford, 31, is the assistant manager of the 4000-hectare farm near Young. She grew up as a ‘townie’ at beachside Tannum Sands near Gladstone in Queensland before a stint in the Australian Border Force. Picture: Rachael Lenehan

Hannah Bamford didn’t grow up on a farm, but she has carved out a career in the country – and now wants others to do the same.

The 31-year-old’s resume is anything but conventional, from operating earthmoving machinery to serving as a marine tactical officer with the Australian Border Force on a gruelling four weeks on, four weeks off roster.

It was during that role, while on leave in the Top End, that she tagged along with a cattle veterinarian.

“We went pregnancy testing cattle and I was blown away by just how much I enjoyed it,” Hannah said.

Hannah Bamford, assistant manager of a 4000-hectare farm near Young has been nominated at an inaugural Bush Champion. Picture: Rachael Lenehan

That experience planted the seed for a new career direction: working as a farming contractor, helping from stock work to fencing to calf marking during peak periods.

But she soon identified a broader challenge: farmers needing contractors didn’t always know where to find them, and contractors had limited visibility of available jobs.

In response, Hannah launched AgWork Solutions, an online platform that matches agricultural contactors with farms in need of help.

It’s this initiative that has seen her nominated for News Corp’s inaugural Bush Champions awards, in partnership with Woolworths.

Hannah Bamford. Picture: Rachael Lenehan

The awards recognise innovation, leadership and service across rural and regional Australia, with categories including Community Champion, Ag Champion and Young Champion.

Winners will be announced at a dinner attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as part of the National Bush Summit in Ballarat, Victoria, in August.

Bush Summit: Anthony Albanese to headline News Corp Bush Summit 2025

Category winners will receive $2000 with the overall Bush Champion awarded an additional $10,000.

Hannah, who most recently worked on a 4000-hectare mixed-farming operation near Young in southern NSW, thrives on the physical and emotional rewards of working outdoors.

“When you are working in the country, it can be so quiet that you can hear yourself think and that’s invaluable,” she said.

Hannah is now an outspoken advocate for bringing newcomers into agriculture.

“There are so many opportunities to do so many different things,” she said.

Nominate your Bush Champion here.
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Originally published as Young farmer Hannah Bamford helping the agricultural industry connect with workers