For Hayden Dalitz, stepping into rice farming was a leap into the unknown, but it was one he was ready for. Based in Moulamein, around 100km west of Deniliquin, Hayden and his fiancé Sam have recently returned to Sam’s family property, Edward Park Pastoral, where rice and sheep form the foundation of a mixed farming enterprise.

Though Hayden grew up around dryland cropping, rice was a completely new experience. After building a career in grain and logistics, he made the move with Sam back to the farm just over 12 months ago, ready to take on a new challenge and immerse himself in the life of an Australian rice grower.  

“It’s been really rewarding. This year was my first full rice season from start to finish, and I’ve learnt so much about how much work and care really goes into growing a good crop,” Hayden said.

Learning by doing

Hayden took charge of the water management on the farm this season, with guidance and support from Robert Glenn, Sam’s dad and a passionate rice grower himself. Robert encouraged Hayden to be involved in every stage and made it clear that seeing the full cycle was key to understanding the crop.

“Robert’s been incredible. He’s a natural teacher, and he’s always happy to pass on his knowledge. I’ve learnt quickly that it’s not just about putting water and seed in a bay and watching it grow, there’s a lot to monitor and get right. It’s easy to mismanage if you’re not paying attention.”

The early mornings spent checking water and observing the crop have been key in helping Hayden understand just how involved rice growing really is.

Finding support in the industry

What has stood out most to Hayden is the strong sense of support across the rice industry especially as a newcomer. From his first season, he’s thrown himself into local RGA and Rice Extension meetings and felt they’ve been critical to building his understanding.

“I didn’t have the growing background coming in, so being able to talk to other growers and learn from their experience has been huge,” he said. 

“Standing around in a paddock with other growers, everyone’s open and sharing. The more meetings I go to, the more it all starts to click.”

Hayden has also taken part in the Young Leaders Program and found it to be an invaluable opportunity to connect with others in different parts of the industry, from agronomists to fellow growers.

“It’s something I’ll keep prioritising, it’s just a great way to learn.”

A welcoming industry culture

What makes the rice industry so unique to Hayden is the culture of openness and collaboration. He notes there’s no gatekeeping, just a genuine willingness to help others grow.

“Everyone wants each other to succeed. You don’t get that everywhere.”

That sense of inclusion and support was clear when SunRice Group CEO Paul Serra visited the Glenn property during a grower meeting last summer.

“Paul sat with growers in the middle of a hot day, in a hot shed, just listening and chatting. That stuck with me, it really showed how SunRice values its growers,” he commented. 

Hayden also appreciates SunRice’s transparency and regular communication, helping growers stay informed and feel part of a bigger picture.

Looking ahead

Now with a full season behind him, Hayden’s only just getting started. There’s still plenty to learn, but with a clearer understanding of the stages, timing and crop needs, he’s feeling confident heading into his second year.

When considering advice for new growers, Hayden noted that jumping straight into the action was the best approach. 

“Go to the meetings, ask questions, have those conversations with other growers. It’s amazing how much you can learn just by being around others and listening. The support is there, you just have to show up.”