Farmers for Climate Action CEO Wendy Cohen on her new role

She has worked with social stars and the equine industry. But this is why Wendy Cohen is excited about her new role.

Next generation: Wendy Cohen with her son Gus McDonald. Picture: Michael Power

WENDY Cohen is at home, in Orange in NSW’s central west, struggling to breathe.

“It’s a kind of Armageddon,” Wendy says.

“I can’t believe, given there’s no fires nearby, the level of smoke here. It’s very dark, red at night, and so hazy breathing is a challenge. But nothing like they’ve experienced in Sydney.”

As unwelcome as the bushfire smoke is, it provides a stark illustration of the importance of Wendy’s new job, as chief executive of the non-profit, nonpartisan group Farmers for Climate Action.

Formed three years ago, FCA now has 5000 farmer supporters around Australia, who advocate for climate solutions both on and off farm.

Wendy, 50, was previously Country Education Foundation chief executive for three years, and before that chief executive of Equestrian NSW, the state’s peak body for the Olympic and international horse sports. And before that she worked for several years as an agent for the likes of Harry M Miller, and for such stars as Cate Blanchett, Rose Byrne and Sigrid Thornton.

Wendy, who moves to Canberra to be closer to the seat of power this year, says her new role has been a long time coming.

“With FCA I saw an opportunity to combine my professional skills with a lifelong interest and passion for the planet.”

She grew up in the central west of NSW, the daughter of a school principal, moving to small towns throughout her childhood.

“I’d go droving with friends and see the impact of drought and dust storms, or see mice plagues where the road would move underneath you.

“While other kids were watching Happy Days I’d watch David Attenborough.”

She went on to study communications at university in Bathurst , saying her role as agent to the stars helped her understand how to manage “effective” people.

A competitive equestrian herself through her childhood, as Equestrian NSW chief executive for 11 years she navigated the industry through equine influenza, Hendra virus and drought.

And through the Country Education Foundation, Wendy was part of the organisation that has supported 5500 rural and regional students to take up post-school study and apprenticeships.

Wendy admits with FCA she’s on a steep learning curve, grappling with climate science and the nuances of each farm sector, from fleece micron to dairy cell count.

“Each commodity has its own considerations and needs but the concepts and discussions around supporting farmers is the same.”

Wendy Cohen. Picture: Michael Power

She says farmers are perfectly placed to engage with politicians because they are “pragmatic, solutions-focused, with a backing in science”.

“Farmers come to the table with ready-made solutions and practical ways to address climate change.

“They can show the benefits of transitioning to renewables, or diversification, storing carbon, stopping water run-off and banking water on land, growing trees and improving the soil.

“They can shine a light for politicians who might be less inclined to support adaptation ... especially in this time of drought and bushfire, farmers can lead by example and become voices for their community.”

Wendy says the climate should not be a political issue, and the science is clear, but she understands many farmers don’t identify with climate change.

“There’s a growing group who are probably typical, no-fuss farmers who are just getting on with making their business sustainable, but publicly don’t declare their support for climate change.

“Whether farmers believe in climate change or it’s all part of a natural cycle, the reality is conditions are changing.

“FCA is bringing to these people new opportunities for business growth, whether that’s diversification or new markets, or solar or wind power.”

Equally Wendy is determined to push against the belief that farmers are to blame for climate change.

“Often they’re seen as contributors and part of the problem. But I definitely argue against that notion and say they are part of the solution.

“You won’t find a farmer who isn’t committed to protecting their property, their legacy and their future.

“They are stewards of the land and look for ways to effectively manage their farms. That’s just good business.

“Part of our role is to reconnect urban communities with the country. Farmers are the ones with skin in the game and working really, really hard for their land.”

Wendy says above all she’s motivated in her role for the future of her son, Gus, 8.

She has not discussed her role and climate change issues in detail but tells him “Mummy is helping make healthy air and clean water”.

So is it too late, does science say we have gone too far?

“Of course it’s not too late. For so long commentators, politicians and the general public have seen climate change as something happening in the future.

“But we know climate change is having an impact on droughts and bushfires, and that’s happening now. It’s not a future conversation.

“It’s not too late but it’s close to being at the point business as usual no longer works.”