There are still misguided souls who believe the percentage of computer literate rural residents is lower than the percentage of urban residents. In actual fact it’s quite the reverse. Most rural residents are so practical and efficient they will pick the eyes out of anything new and ignore what is time-wasting or unhelpful. There is a typical story of a farming family’s use of the internet on ‘Farm Management 500’, ‘Networking the Nation’. John Ryan of Yarrawonga got to know a Canadian farmer due to helpful advice he was posting on a harvester website, travelled to Canada and met in person, resulting in some very real benefits for his farming business.
There are numerous benefits in the development of such contacts – from straight technical advice from people with first-hand experience, through to what is perhaps even more valuable – shared stories and experiences, with people living a surprisingly similar life though they happen to live in another country. Australia-wide and international rural networking will increase in future – it is only in its infancy and it will be fascinating to see this professional networking develops.
Tags: Living in the country and remote areas, Image of the bush