In October 2019, Australian farmers were faced with a crippling drought. One woman set out to give those communities a voice and showcase all the incredible wares for sale in the towns doing it tough. It started with an Instagram account and before long, the hashtag #buyfromthebush became a sensation. Small bricks and mortar stores on the brink of closure were selling out of stock. We are a long way out of that drought now but the support and sentiment behind Buy From The Bush is as strong as ever. To learn more about this wonderful initiative, founder Grace Brennan is today's guest and we discuss:
- Grace's favourite place on her creek country property.
- In 2019 the country was experiencing severe drought and 'Buy From The Bush' was born.
- Within 7 weeks' Buy From the Bush had 130 000 followers, it increased rural postage by 30 per cent and within months became the second highest used term put into search engines nationally.
- The impact of #buyfromthebush and why this really resonated with those living in the city.
- The long-term results Grace has seen over the past few years and the boost this has given rural communities.
- Access to industry, workplace, full-time work and fulfilling career ambition remains a challenge in these communities, however Grace has seen a shift in traditional roles from this endeavour.
- The impact of the pandemic and the social shifts Grace noticed in rural industries as the drought eased.
- Storytelling may be the solution to crisis-proofing the impacts of natural disasters in rural Australia.
- The value of a digital footprint and how Grace provided a masterclass in how to harness social media to grow your brand.
- The contrast between city and rural life and what Grace loves the most about living in the bush.
- The most unexpected things to have occurred from running 'Buy From The Bush'.
- The most common misconceptions of living in the bush.
- The dream for the future of 'Buy From The Bush.'
We hope to see you back on the road soon, to learn more about how Australia grows on the next episode of Australian Farmers with Angie Asimus.
Links:
Angie Asimus
Connect with @angieasimus on Instagram
Partnered with Australian Farmers
Follow @australianfarmers On Instagram
Buy From The Bush
Connect with Grace on LinkedIn
Produced by Pretty Podcasts
