Q&A with Danyelle Haigh Director of Murranji Water Drilling & Athelle Outback Hideaway and star of Outback Farm on Channel 7
City girl Danyelle Haigh went from the glitz of the Gold Coast to the heart of the outback when she met her husband, Anthony. Running Murranji Water Drilling and Athelle Outback Hideaway together, Danyelle champions rural communities through her NFP and media work – all while raising her two boys and making her mark in two male-dominated industries.
Q: Can you tell us about your career journey so far?
My career has been built on hard work, determination, and a belief that anything is possible. I never imagined I’d go from Gold Coast city life to an outback road train, but here I am!
I started as a nurse and fashion stylist, but my life changed when I met my husband, Anthony. Together, we launched Murranji Water Drilling 11 years ago, helping drought-stricken farmers and remote cattle stations across the Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia access essential water solutions. For years, we lived on the road full-time, with our family growing up in a home on the back of my road train.
Three years ago, we decided to give our kids some stability and moved to Anmatjere in the Northern Territory – right in the middle of the desert. We rebuilt the abandoned Territory Grape Farm (now Athelle Outback Hideaway), where we produce fodder crops like Lucerne, Rhodes grass, oats, and vetch for cattle stations, along with running a tourism business.
Today, I manage both businesses, drive my own pink Mack triple road train, and oversee my boys’ education through School of the Air. I also juggle media appearances, volunteering, and my role as President of the Isolated Children’s Parents Association Alice Springs Branch. Life’s full, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q: What inspired you to take up a career in agriculture?
At first, I fell into agriculture through necessity. When Anthony and I started Murranji Water Drilling, I quickly realised how critical water is to the success of cattle stations and rural communities – and the struggles farmers face without it.
Over time, my appreciation for agriculture grew. Working in the outback has shown me just how tough and resilient farmers are. They work tirelessly to keep their operations going despite the challenges of drought, sustainability, and market pressures. Seeing their determination inspired me to go all-in and do everything I can to support them.
Q: What do you love most about your work in agriculture?
It’s the people and the purpose that get me out of bed each day. Farmers and remote families are some of the most hardworking, genuine people I’ve met. I love knowing that what we do – whether it’s providing water solutions or producing fodder – makes a real difference to their lives. It’s about more than just running a business; it’s about helping rural communities survive and thrive. And then there’s the lifestyle. Living and working in the outback, surrounded by open spaces and incredible sunsets, has given me a connection to the land I never expected. It’s rewarding in ways that money can’t buy.
Q: How do you manage the balancing act between work and family life?
Balancing work and family life is tough, especially with the demands of running multiple businesses. But we make it work by turning life into one big adventure. Our kids have grown up travelling with us, learning on the go, and being part of everything we do. They’ve experienced life in a way most kids never get to – whether it’s driving vehicles or helping with our operations. It’s unique, but it’s taught them resilience, adaptability, and appreciation for the outback way of life.
We also make time for what really matters. When it’s family time, we shut off the phones and enjoy the moment – whether it’s a big meal around the table, a snuggle on the couch, or watching the sunset over the desert. Even with all the chaos, we wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Q: What’s been the toughest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far?
Breaking into male-dominated industries like trucking and agriculture has been one of my biggest battles. I cop it every day – from being a woman in trucking to someone who didn’t grow up in the bush. I’ve had to prove myself time and time again, but I let my work speak for itself. Instead of letting doubt or bias stop me, I focus on working hard, honing my skills, and showing that I belong in these spaces.
What I’ve learned is this: resilience is everything, support networks matter, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success. You don’t have to fit themould – carve your own path, and don’t be afraid to stand up for what you believe in.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of women in agriculture?
Women in agriculture have come so far, but there’s still work to do. We’re finally being recognised as key decision-makers and leaders, but the outdated view that agriculture is a ‘man’s industry’ still exists. We need to keep breaking down those stereotypes, celebrating women’s achievements, and encouraging girls to see ag as a career where they can thrive.
I hope women in agriculture continue lifting each other up – mentoring, supporting, and paving the way for the next generation. When we work together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
A few fun ones to finish off:
My favourite time of the day is… When the sun sets. It’s when the world slows down, and I get to reflect on the day and recharge.
I’m happiest when… I’m out in wide-open spaces with my family, living our best life together.
Equal representation in fodder is important because… It ensures diverse voices, ideas, and experiences are recognised. Women bring so much to the table, and it’s time for that to be fully valued.
*Written by Melanie Butler for AFIA’s Autumn 2025 Focus on Fodder magazine. Melanie is a Melbourne-based freelance writer and content strategist. With a background working for some of Australia’s biggest digital brands, she now creates content for start- ups and growing businesses across various industries, with a keen interest in AI and AgTech innovations.