Anna Barber

I grew up on my family’s dairy farm in the UK, where I also completed my degree in Animal Nutrition. After my studies and covid, I spent three years in New Zealand learning their specific approach to feeding and supplementation.

Before joining the team at Reid’s, I worked on several dairy farms here in Australia to get a real feel for local conditions and systems. My role now is all about being out on-farm and accessible to our customers as their Account Manager. The training and improvement at Reid’s is never-ending, which I am grateful for.

Q1: Share some interesting facts about yourself

I’m English, but don’t hold the accent against me—it’s slowly fading!

When I’m not at work, I’m usually winding up my partner (He is an Aussie, so it’s easy) or out camping or fishing. I’ve officially upgraded to the rooftop tent life now, so i will ever swag again.

If I’m stuck indoors I’ll probably be reupholstering some useless bit of furniture I’ve bought just so it can sit in a cupboard for six months. I used to enjoy milking in my spare time after work or on weekends (I know, who enjoys milking?) but apparently being born in ’99 means I’m basically prehistoric and my back has already retired.

Q2: What do you believe differentiates Reids from other companies?

The biggest difference is that Reid’s is a family business, so we actually care about the results on-farm. We aren’t just selling grain; the focus is on constant training and making sure we are actually out there and available when a farmer needs a hand. It’s a pretty rare mix of having a degree-level understanding of nutrition but still being there for farmers- even if just to have a chat over a brew. We’re essentially as invested in the cows’ performance as the farmers are, just without having to do the 4 a.m. starts in the shed anymore! (thank god)

Q3: What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learnt in life?

Being confident and asking for what you want instead of beating around the bush. I’ve learnt that life is much easier when you’re direct and get straight to the point—the worst they can say is no!

Q4: Your goals or aspirations for the future.

I want a few acres to call my own where I can grow my own food and never have to step foot in a Woolies again. I’m going to become a master in butchery and source all my own meat and veg myself—paddock to plate, properly.

I’ve also got the Great Ocean Road hike to tick off, then it’s into a campervan to do a lap of Australia. I’ll spend my last days by the sea and just hope a shark/snake/spider/magpie/croc (list is endless) doesn’t decide I look like a decent snack. Ambitious, but watch this space.

Q5: Quote or mantra that inspires you

‘Shy bairns get nowt.’ Which I think in Australian equates to: ‘Squeaky wheels get the grease, but if you sit there like a stunned mullet, you’ll get Buckley’s and none.’