We sat down with Lynn Davidson, Managing Director of Jimboomba Turf, an FBA member in Queensland, to talk about his business, family and why he values being a member of FBA.
In the heart of Longreach, 50 years ago, a resilient grazing family dared to embrace change. Since 1914, they'd weathered the outback, battling droughts and the rugged Queensland landscape. The allure of a property with a perennial water supply enticed them to embark on a new journey, transitioning from sheep and cattle to become pioneers in the turf industry.
Meet Lynn Davidson, now the Managing Director of Jimboomba Turf. At 19, he took the reins of a vast station, managing 10,000 sheep and 1,000 cattle. Amidst the challenges, Lynn found a partner in Carolyn, a skilled stockwoman and a resilient force in the bush. Their story unfolds as they make a bold leap into the turf industry, captivated by a farm blessed with a never-ending water source.
The transition wasn't easy. Swapping wide-open spaces for a more intense environment posed challenges, but with the existing team's support, the family learned the turf trade. Marketing became a pivotal challenge, evolving from Yellow Pages ads to navigating the dynamic world of consumer relationships.
Jimboomba Turf thrived through pivotal moments like the golf course boom and venturing into international markets. Innovations like Sir Walter grass marked significant milestones, fostering connections among growers nationally. Lynn reflects on challenges like 'Stay Turf,' a brilliant erosion control concept that faced tough competition.
In the tapestry of their journey, Jimboomba Turf stands as a testament to embracing change, resilience, and the enduring spirit of family businesses.
What advice would you give to others running a family business?
"Recognise different and individual skills. My sister, Cherie, and I worked well like that. I never questioned her administration, and she never questioned if I needed a new machine, we knew what each other did best and supported that. The landscape is littered with failed family businesses, and from my observation, the different skills within the family may not have been exploited to their potential."
What do you value about being a member of FBA?
"As a proud family-run enterprise, the Jimboomba Turf Group has been steered with dedication by our family across generations. We are now at a pivotal juncture, engaging in succession discussions between our 2nd and 3rd generations. Having explored the range of educational courses and forum groups specifically designed for the nuanced challenges of operating a family business, we perceive these resources as a valuable investment. They promise not only to enhance our business acumen but also to preserve the harmony that allows us to enjoy family gatherings like Christmas lunch together."
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