For John Bradford, rice isn’t just a crop, it’s a legacy. Nestled in southern NSW, one of his farms has been in continuous ownership for over 110 years. John and his wife Julie purchased it from family in 2020, carrying forward a tradition that now involves their three children.

John’s own rice-growing journey began in 1993 after purchasing his first farm, following a period of leasing land and working on the family farm, and collaborating with his cousins in rice cultivation. His affinity for rice dates back to 1969, when his father planted their family’s inaugural crop. Even at 93, John’s father still inspects the crops, offering invaluable advice gathered over decades. 

That generational connection continues, with John’s children sharing cherished memories of rice farming from sunset drives around the paddocks as the rice emerges to watching waterbirds settle across the fields. His daughter Lily is now beginning to step into the business, aiming to balance her growing passion for rice farming alongside her career as a midwife.

Rice as part of a bigger picture

Today, John’s enterprise spans six properties and includes a mix of rice, cereal crops, sheep, cattle, and agroforestry. While rice is the farm’s only summer crop, its value extends far beyond the season. “Following rice with a cereal crop or pasture consistently yields excellent results. It plays a crucial role in our rotation,” John said. 

A grower’s voice in leadership

Driven by his passion for rice and community, John pursued leadership within the industry. In 2015, he was elected as a Grower Director to the SunRice Group Board, leveraging his firsthand farming experience. He’s also Chair of Trukai Industries Ltd, SunRice’s subsidiary in Papua New Guinea, fostering collaboration and supporting their local rice-growing aspirations. 

Sharing knowledge, strengthening the industry

John values collaboration within the rice industry, highlighting SunRice growers’ willingness of exchange insights as a cornerstone of the industry’s strength. He initiated a successful WhatsApp group connecting growers across regions, facilitating knowledge-sharing and benefiting newcomers through tips from other growers, SunRice and Rice Extension. 

SunRice’s commitment to research, agronomic support and new tools like the Rice Management Dashboard empowers growers to make informed decisions amidst challenges such as water management and climate variability. 

Looking ahead

Despite ongoing challenges like water reform, John remains optimistic and emphasised the importance of food security and of food production ‘s strategic value.

“Improving water efficiency is key. SunRice has been pivotal, commercialising more water efficient rice varieties and tools for input management,” he said. 

“I see a bright future for SunRice with sustainable growers in the rice industry, despite climate challenges and water reform. SunRice’s global reputation for integrity and quality positions us well.”