Our Insights

Nooganginnie Agventure is a family-owned wheat farming operation based in Mullewa, Western Australia. Founded by Carlie Rowe and her husband Gerard, the business was formed after they made the bold decision to step away from a multi-generational family farm and take on the challenge of running their own independent operation. 

With 9,000 hectares dedicated to wheat production, the Rowes focus on efficiency, sustainability, and long-term financial security. 

Like many regional farmers, they face ongoing challenges including fluctuating commodity prices, rising input costs, and a lack of government support. Managing cash flow, tax planning, and succession planning are all critical to securing their future in an increasingly corporate-dominated agricultural industry. 

Why Nooganginnie Agventure Chose Thorntons 

When Carlie and Gerard restructured their business, they needed an accounting and advisory firm that could provide tailored advice and long-term strategic guidance. Their previous accountant had been with the family for 15 years but failed to provide the proactive support they required. 

“We had quite a challenging relationship with the previous accountant and just wanted a fresh start. We wanted someone more proactive,” Carlie explains. 

Through a referral from their farm advisor, they connected with Darren Fissioli from Thorntons, and it quickly became clear they had found the right fit. 

“We get along so well with Darren. If I don’t like the person, I can’t work with them. I have to have respect for the people working alongside us, and I really do with Darren.” 

 What Thorntons Provides 

Thorntons is a Perth-based accounting and business advisory firm with deep expertise in regional agriculture, manufacturing, and family-owned businesses. Their team understands the pressures faced by farm owners and delivers practical, strategic advice tailored to each client’s needs. 

 Nooganginnie Agventure engaged Thorntons to help them with a wide range of accounting and tax planning advice: 

Tax Planning & Cash Flow Management – Knowing tax obligations in advance is essential for a farming business with unpredictable revenue. 

“Darren just did our profit estimates, so we know exactly where we’re going to be by June 30. If you don’t know that number and get slammed with a big tax bill, that can shut a business down fast.” 

Machinery & Investment Advice – With modern farming equipment is now a multi-million investment, Thorntons ensures asset purchases align with tax strategies and business growth. 

“If we want to buy a new machine, Darren advises us on the best approach for tax reasons and return on investment.” 

Succession Planning – Carlie and Gerard are determined to structure their business to avoid the succession issues they experienced in the past. 

“We learned a big lesson from previous bad advice. Now, if we’re buying another property, the first thing we say to Darren is, ‘This has to be set up for our kids, with no surprises, no bickering.’” 

Payroll & Compliance Support – With multiple employees during peak farming seasons, Thorntons team handles payroll administration, ensuring compliance and accuracy. 

“We’ve got enough on our plate. We need to focus on growing wheat, not doing payroll.” 

 The Thorntons Difference 

Unlike large accounting firms with a one-size-fits-all approach, Thorntons is deeply invested in their clients’ success. 

“We’re not treated as a number. They want to see us thrive. They’re as invested in our business as we are,” Carlie says. 

While some farmers hesitate to work with a city-based firm, Carlie sees the location as a non-issue. 

“The old mindset is that you have to drive to Perth to see your accountant. But look at what we’re doing right now—this is how we do business. I couldn’t care less if Darren was in Sydney. It doesn’t matter anymore.” 

Thinking of Changing Accountants? 

For multi-generational family businesses, changing accountants can feel like a daunting process. However, as Carlie puts it, switching to Thorntons was “one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.” 

If you’re a family-owned business in agriculture, manufacturing, or regional WA and are considering a change, Thorntons can help you make the transition smoothly. 

To find out how Thorntons can support your business, get in touch with one of their partners today.