Episode Description
In this episode of The Pastoral Potty, host Edgar Greste sits down with Brendan Cullen, who manages a 60,000 hectare sheep and cattle station southeast of Broken Hill, alongside Matt Kennedy from the Good Neighbours Program.
Together, they explore the importance of coordinated pest and weed management across far western New South Wales, from tackling Hudson pear and wild dogs to building stronger communication and collaboration between neighbours. Brendan shares powerful reflections on mental health, vulnerability, and the parallels between asking for help personally and asking for support with biosecurity challenges on the land.
This episode is a story of resilience, practical action, and the power of community in the bush.
Key Moments
[00:01:20] Brendan introduces the challenges facing far western properties.
[00:02:00] Why coordinated baiting programs are essential for pest control.
[00:03:00] How neighbours worked together to dramatically reduce fox numbers.
[00:05:00] Brendan explains why collaboration is the only way large-scale control works.
[00:06:10] Native wildlife returns and the emotional reward of seeing change.
[00:07:30] How support networks and relationships help landholders feel less alone.
[00:10:45] Brendan shares his mental health journey and lessons about vulnerability.
[00:13:00] Final takeaways: collaboration, confidence and asking for help.
For more information:
Good Neighbours Program - nsw.gov.au/good-neighbours
More about Brendan Cullen - brendancullen.com.au
Need advice on pest animals and weeds?
For pest animals, contact your Local Land Services Biosecurity Officer on 1300 795 299.
For weeds, contact your local council Weeds Officer.
For a transcript of this episode:
This podcast series is produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by Western Local Land Services, supported through funding from the NSW Government as part of the Good Neighbours Program.