Walgett: Family Matters
Walgett: Family Matters
Succession planning in rural family buiness is an important process that rarely works if it is allowed to "just happen".
Building our Future -
LLCI022-027
The issue
Succession Planning was identified as the highest priority in the NWPSG Strategic and Business Plan 2016 - 2020.
Member survey results were: Over 60% of respondents were over the age of 50, of those aged over 50, more than half identified that they had little or no succession planning in place.
Succession planning (or lack there of) as identified as more limiting to the family business than climate variability; weed and pest animal pressures; road and rail conditions and inadequate telecommunication networks.
The solution
To start positive conversations in the Walgett Shire around succession planning the NWPSG offered a one day workshop that offered a clear framework to help each generation develop their thinking around the issue of succession planning. The day made it clear that succession planning is about transferring skill and knowledge not just assets. This day was designed to help families negotiate succession planning with increased clarity, calm and consideration, with the necessary management of emotions, resulting in more harmonious and more productive family business.
The impact
53 people from 36 families listened to Allan Parker a micro-behavioural scientist as he described the nuances of succession planning and it's deep connection to communication, body language and compassion. Following this was a series of group workshops. Small, frequently rotating groups were submerged in practical examples of succession planning. Groups were assisted by James Hamilton from Cultivate Advisory and Claire Booth from Duffy Elliot Lawyers. Topic included family constitution, breaking down assumptions, understanding human characteristics, "me" vs "we", gut vs emotion, relationship building, boundaries, decisions making, fear, non verbal communication.
"The day has been a good kick start. We've had other conversations but these group activities pushed me out of my comfort zone. I've learnt a lot."
"This is a very good way for us to start. This has lessened a lot of anxieties for mum. We've gathered the tools we need to keep this process moving, we feel safe and happy."
"Today took me out of my comfort zone but I will reflect back and think this day has been a bloody good thing."
Key facts
- FREE one day Succession and Communication Workshop
- 53 individuals, 36 families
- Practical introduction to succession planning
- "A good kick start"