AN AGRICULTURAL innovator from Gresford is gaining international recognition, with Allynview Farm co-founder Kristen Nicol named a finalist in the prestigious Woman Changing the World Awards.
The award winners will be announced in Paris on 11 April.
Kristen, who runs Allynview Farm alongside her husband Ben just outside Gresford, has been shortlisted in multiple categories, selected from around 1,500 applicants across 97 countries.
“Receiving the nomination actually brought me to tears because it was so unexpected,” Nicol said.
“Farming can feel like very quiet work, so to have that recognised on a global stage is something I’m still processing.”
The recognition highlights the couple’s commitment to regenerative agriculture, a farming approach focused on improving soil health, biodiversity and long-term sustainability.
Over the past six years, the Nicols have built a paddock-to-plate beef business supplying more than 250 families each week with fully grass-fed produce, without compromising land health, animal welfare or transparency.
“Our journey really began with food,” Kristen said.
“We wanted to produce something clean, trustworthy and healthy for our own family, and that grew, with the birth of our children, into a bigger question about how to leave the land better for the next generation.”
Kristen explained that regenerative agriculture felt like the only approach that aligned with the couple’s values.
Since adopting regenerative practices, Kristen said the land has shown clear signs of improvement, including increased insect and bird life, stronger ground cover and healthier livestock.
In addition to their environmental focus, the Nicols are also embracing innovation.
The pair have begun integrating artificial intelligence and automation into their operations to streamline administration and improve transparency.
“Technology helps manage the complexity of running a paddock-to-plate business,” Kristen said.
“It allows us to spend more time focused on the farm and providing top notch customer service.”
Looking ahead, Kristen believes Australian farmers are well positioned to lead the global shift toward more sustainable food systems.
“We farm in one of the most variable climates in the world, which makes us incredibly adaptive,” she said.
For young women entering the industry, Kristen encourages curiosity and confidence.
“Agriculture offers so many pathways. Don’t be afraid to back your ideas – the industry is stronger when more women bring their perspective and leadership to the table.”
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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