The expression “You will never work a day in your life” rings true for David Swansson and his son Jordan. Combining farming with family fun on the fence line creates a typical successful Kiwi business model for the Swanssons.
David and his wife Janine, well supported by their parents, had been dairy farming for 30 years but decided it was time for a change in their business as grandchildren were on the horizon for their eldest daughter Sara and fiancé Josh. At just 15, Jordan, who found school unfulfilling, worked alongside David on their dairy farm. One wet rainy day, they realised they were more interested in fixing fences than milking cows. This sparked the decision to sell the dairy farm and launch Bang It Fencing. Since 2020, David and Jordan have been the driving forces behind this venture while also managing their drystock farm in the Tararua District.
David’s passion for fencing dates back to his youth when he left his cabinet-making job to spend 18 months on the fence line before committing to a successful dairy farming career. These early experiences instilled valuable skills and a long-held dream of owning a flash post rammer.
The duo forms a perfect team on the fence line, with attention to detail and efficiency being key aspects of their workmanship, along with a shared sense of fun and a lot of playful banter, creating a positive working environment. David takes pride in their strong relationship, which has naturally extended to include other family members. David’s daughter Anna and Jordan’s fiancée Emma have also contributed to the business, while Janine manages administrative tasks.
Fencing offers a fantastic opportunity for young people to start their own business. Despite rumours of a humorous rift, the timing is right for Jordan to forge his own path. David believes in empowering his son to create his own business rather than waiting to ‘have’ to take over an existing one. As David continues with Bang It Fencing, Jordan has this month launched Ridgetop Fencing with Emma, just as they prepare to welcome their first baby in December. Fencing provides the perfect versatile business for Jordan and Emma, with farming connections in both Tararua and Hunterville, where Emma’s family farms.
David and Jordan are very grateful to their local customers, who are central to their success. The fencing industry also fosters a strong sense of community, which Janine and David enjoy and embrace through their involvement with FCANZ and NZ Fencing Competitions. David is particularly proud to compete alongside Jordan at local fencing competitions, learning and growing their skills from the experience. Competing alongside other true fencing legends is a great privilege.
In May, David and Janine hosted 88 attendees at an FCANZ Best Practice Day on their property, featuring fencing legends Paul Van Beers and Tim Stafford. This event provided an invaluable opportunity for local fencers to come together, share knowledge, and learn new techniques. The day was humorously MC’d by John Noakes (Noksee), a local reminiscing about his youth in the area, now part of the land David and Janine purchased from Janine’s parents. Fencers and local farmers left with new insights and skills, further enriched by the support of sponsors and partners who enhance the fencing community.
In 2023, David and Jordan completed their Level 3 Certificate in Fencing. They gained essential fencing skills and knowledge, including important business aspects such as health and safety in their trade, while connecting with like-minded individuals.
Looking to the future, the family business model works well for David, especially as Anna prepares to head to university and will join him on the fence line. Meanwhile, Emma will support Jordan. Although David and Jordan will operate independently, the nature of fencing allows them to collaborate on projects as needed, maintaining their strong family ties and shared passion for their work.
David and Jordan’s relationship reflects a healthy dynamic between both men, important in any business, emphasising growth, learning, and family values while navigating their respective journeys in fencing and farming. When not having fun working on the fence line, David and Jordan enjoy the outdoors, hunting, fishing and diving.
Advice from David to Jordan (Dad to Son) as Jordan starts his own business.
- Embrace independence: “Take the opportunity to build your own brand
with Ridgetop Fencing. It’s important to carve out your own identity in the business world.” - Focus on learning: “Always be open to learning from every experience, whether it’s on the job or through competitions. The more you know, the better you’ll be, there’s always room for new knowledge and growth.”
- Maintain relationships: “Value the connections you make in the community. They are your support network and can lead to future opportunities.”
- Balance work and life: “As you step into this new role, remember to prioritise family and personal time, especially with the baby on the way.”
Written by Janine Swansson
Published in WIRED issue 75/December 2024 by Fencing Contractors Association NZ
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