Safety in focus for award winning Gunnedah branch
When we caught up with Branch Manager Duncan Hill and Merchandise Manager James Goodall, the strength of the eleven-person team was clear. Fertile soils, reliable irrigation water and a mix of dryland and irrigated systems allow growers to run diverse summer and winter programs, shaping the branch's daily work and its strong role in broadacre agronomy.
In 2024, Gunnedah ranked tenth nationally, earned a place in the Executive MD Club and received the MD Safety Excellence Award, recognising a branch driven by a strong culture and an instinctive approach to safety.
A team aligned on safety
James says the team's approach to safety has always played a huge part in the way they work.
“We have always had a strong culture, although the willingness of the team to adopt improvements is what sets us apart. Safety here is something everyone owns," he said.
This culture is supported by close collaboration. Agronomy and merchandise work together on planning, shed walks, updates on paddock conditions, supply and pricing. Livestock and insurance staff are integral to daily activities, ensuring open communication and consistent service. Regular branch meetings, shared meals and end of day catch ups maintain trust and create an environment where people feel confident raising concerns and suggesting improvements.
Several significant safety improvements were implemented during the year. A standout feature was the redesign of fertiliser load-out dockets, allowing the team to record both tare weight and gross weight. Previously, the branch had limited visibility over whether trucks carried excessive loads. The new process provides accurate weight information based on axle configuration and has strengthened mass management across the site.
The branch also introduced a structured approach to maintenance records and shared updated safety information with freight contractors, including traffic flow, expectations for personal protective equipment, and safe movement procedures. These improvements have created a safer and more predictable operating environment.
Looking ahead, Gunnedah is focusing on pedestrian safety around forklifts, which is recognised as a daily risk.
“Forklifts and pedestrians interact constantly,” Duncan says. “We want the team to consider this risk every time they step into the shed.”
Supporting the community
Gunnedah has navigated a demanding season alongside its growers, many of whom are managing short-term financial pressure and tough summer crop conditions. The branch is supporting customers with practical financial solutions and daily in field advice to help reduce risk.
James says these pressures highlight the value of strong communication.
“Growers know we will try our best to give them the right information so they can make the right call.”
Systems such as Power BI and improvements to the Fiori platform have strengthened forecasting, inventory visibility and planning, supporting more informed decision.
The branch also remains active in the community, supporting local sporting clubs, school programs and agricultural groups. Three organisations recently received funding through the Nutrien Community Grants Program, and the team continues to host school-based work placement students.
Looking ahead
The team sees strong opportunities in the year ahead, particularly in nutrition and variety trials that will support on farm decision making. Several years of high yields have created nutrient depletion in some paddocks, opening the door for tailored programs that deliver value in a high priced fertiliser market.
James says merchandise trends are shifting as growers look for more reliable options.
“Growers are moving toward products that offer stronger performance and better residual control.”
Premium animal health products and nitrogen and sulphur blends are also gaining momentum as growers refine their systems.
Duncan says the branch will continue to focus on safety, skill development and comradery in the year ahead.
“A connected team is able to support each other through busy periods and difficult seasons.”
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