SUCCESS STORY
Vicki & Michael Hiscock
Dairy Farmers from East Gippsland, Victoria
See why Michael and Vicki say joining Farm Owners Academy changed the trajectory of their life.
“To say that Farm Owners Academy has changed the trajectory of my life is an understatement."
"We now have a highly efficient and highly profitable farm. We’re aligned on our vision, we know where we’re going, and we’re not afraid to try new things."
Life before joining Farm Owners Academy
Before joining the Platinum Mastermind Program, Michael and Vicki Hiscock were running a profitable dairy and beef trading operation in East Gippsland, but at great personal cost.
For 33 years, they worked 80-hour weeks, doing everything themselves. As Vicki recalls, “Our only business strategy was to have a go, and then work your guts out.” They had no structure to their days, and no shared plan. Just two separate ideas of what needed doing, which led to regular stress and conflict.
At 50, Vicki hit a wall. “I ended up in bed and I couldn’t get out. I begged Michael to sell the farm.”
The pressure had become too much. When they first signed up for the Platinum Mastermind Program, Vicki felt completely overwhelmed. “We went to the first Deep Dive session just to complete our task and get our money back. But we sat in that room, and realised we needed this.”
Life after joining Farm Owners Academy
Today, their farm business looks and feels completely different. They now operate with clearly defined roles, structured weekly meetings, and two dedicated days off-farm each year to plan their goals and direction. Vicki is the CEO, and Michael is the strategic driver.
“We make decisions based on facts and numbers, not emotion. Our benchmarking has helped us make huge life changes.”
Most significantly, they’ve reduced their working hours and created space to live a fuller life. “I now only work 30 to 40 hours a week - and that’s saying something, because we’re dairy farmers.”
The change has gone beyond work-life balance. As Vicki puts it, “To say that Farm Owners Academy has changed the trajectory of my life is an understatement. We’re now having four months off the farm and a much, much better life."
The results
Michael and Vicki have built a more focused and sustainable farm business that supports their goals and reflects their values. They no longer feel stuck in a cycle of overwork and stress, and instead feel calm, clear, and in control.
Vicki’s willingness to speak up, ask questions, and challenge the status quo has been a key part of their journey, and one that’s been met with encouragement and support.
They’ve created a real business partnership, with structure, trust, and direction. They’re confident in the decisions they make, proud of the way they now operate, and open to future opportunities.
“We now have a highly efficient and highly profitable farm. We’re aligned on our vision, we know where we’re going, and we’re not afraid to try new things.
There’s not a hope in hell we would’ve made the progress we’ve made in three years without Farm Owners Academy.
Some of the changes were uncomfortable, but once you dip your toe in, each one gets easier. Having someone hold you accountable was irritating at times, but that’s what helped us change.”
This transformation didn’t happen overnight, but with the right support, a willingness to grow, and a clear plan, Michael and Vicki have created meaningful and lasting change in both their farm and their lives.
Key outcomes from the Platinum Mastermind Program
Clear roles and a stronger partnership
Michael and Vicki now work to their strengths. Michael focuses on strategy and big-picture planning, while Vicki manages operations and team coordination. This clarity has reduced conflict and built mutual trust in each other’s decisions.
Planning ahead and taking time off
They now plan their year in advance, giving them the flexibility to step away when needed, whether it’s for a week off the farm or to attend horse events. Things no longer feel like they’ll fall apart without them.
Improved profitability with fewer hours
With the right systems in place, Vicki has halved her workload, and they’ve increased profitability. The business is more efficient, and their time is better invested in the right areas.
Confidence in decision-making
Using benchmarking and financial tools, they’ve removed the guesswork from their decision-making. They’ve adjusted their dairy model, started a complementary beef trading venture, and now base every move on the numbers.
A healthier mindset around work
Letting go of the need to overwork has been a major shift. Vicki no longer ties her value to early mornings or doing everything herself. They now think and operate more like business owners, not just farmers.
Improved team culture and communication
Regular team meetings and clearer communication have created a stronger workplace culture. Their team is more supported and aligned, which frees Michael and Vicki up to focus on leading the business, rather than constantly reacting to issues.
Space to enjoy life again!
They’re travelling more, taking part in horse events, and finding it easier to take breaks. What used to feel like a scramble to get away is now far more relaxed, because the farm is structured to run without them needing to be there all the time.
Ready to change your farm business, and life?
Michael and Vicki achieved these results by joining Farm Owners Academy’s Platinum Mastermind Program. To find out if this Program may be right for you, or to ask any questions, please contact us on 0447 184 167 or explore the program.
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Head Office
Farm Owners Academy, Little City, 1/132 Prospect Road, Prospect, SA 5082
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0447 184 167
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