Meet Libby, Livestock Leading Hand at AACo’s Goonoo Feedlot
If you picture agriculture as early mornings, boots on the ground, and working outdoors with animals, you’re not wrong. That’s exactly where Libby’s career with AACo started.
Libby Woodrow is a Livestock Leading Hand at AACo’s Goonoo Feedlot. Her alarm buzzes at 5am. By sunrise, she’s already in the saddle with her team, checking on hundreds of cattle and making sure each animal is healthy and cared for.
It’s hands-on. It’s fast-paced. And it’s a lot more skilled and responsible than most people realise.
So… what does a normal day actually look like?
Libby’s day starts before most people hit snooze. The team meets first thing to run through what needs to be achieved, then it’s straight into pen riding.
Once that’s done, the team splits up. One group looks after any animals needing support. The other processes newly arrived cattle, making sure they settle in safely and receive the same level of care.
In the afternoon, everyone comes back together for trough cleaning. It might not sound glamorous, but maintaining fresh water across the entire feedlot is critical. These details are what keep the operation running properly and show the level of care behind the scenes.
No two days look exactly the same. That’s part of what keeps it interesting.
Why AACo?
Libby joined AACo in 2024, starting out as a Livestock Hand.
What drew her in was the versatility.
Since then, she’s progressed into a Livestock Leading Hand role. And it doesn’t stop there. At AACo, there are pathways into office-based roles, station work, and other parts of the business. You’re not locked into one lane forever.
If you’re someone who likes having options and the chance to move forward, that matters.
Growing into leadership
One thing Libby is clear on is the support.
She credits her managers, mentors, and teammates for helping her grow. Stepping into a Leading Hand role means more responsibility, more decision-making, and guiding others. That kind of growth only happens when you’ve got the right people backing you.
In ag, teamwork isn’t a corporate slogan. It’s how the job gets done.
Let’s talk myths
There’s a common belief that Australian agriculture is the leading cause of deforestation.
Libby is quick to push back on that.
At AACo, operations are nature-led. There’s a real focus on responsible land management and caring for both livestock and the environment. The industry keeps evolving, and sustainability is a genuine priority.
Agriculture today is more complex and considered than many people assume.
Would she change anything?
No.
When asked if she’d do anything differently so far, Libby’s answer is simple. She wouldn’t change a thing.
And if you’re thinking about getting into agriculture, here’s her advice:
Don’t overthink it. Just give it a go.
Curious about a career in agriculture?
Agriculture isn’t just one job. It’s livestock, operations, sustainability, logistics, leadership, and so much more. And companies like AACo offer real pathways to grow, move, and shape your career over time.
If you’re keen to explore hands-on work, step into leadership, and build a career that evolves with you, this could be your sign.
Learn more about careers in agriculture and opportunities with AACo here.
