"City boys are just pathetic and I've had enough."
So says Farmer Wants a Wife hopeful Miranda, one of the 40 women vying for love on the land in the new season of the popular reality show premiering on Seven on Monday, June 8.
Seven says more women than ever before have applied to put their hearts on the line for the five farmers this year.
The Australian series has led to 11 weddings, 13 long-term relationships and 28 farm babies, which host Natalie Gruzlewski puts down to "authenticity".
"The farmers are there for the right reasons, and the women genuinely want a lifelong partner, not just a passing romance," she says. "When intentions are pure, real love has a chance to grow."
She's confident we will see more happily ever-afters this season: "There are some very strong connections and watching them grow has been so rewarding".
More in a moment on Gruzlewski's assessment of this year's farmers and their "ladies" - plus Miranda's plan to get her man.
But first, let's meet the 2026 crop of farmers.
Age: 28
Farm: Kin Kin, Queensland
What to know: The beef and mushroom farmer is a self-confessed hopeless romantic. He reckons "life is too short not to make grand gestures". Seven says Alex's charm is so exuberant that even host Gruzlewski couldn't resist: "Sorry, I'm getting a bit distracted talking to you," she said. "You sound like the dream man."
Age: 24
Farm: Cherry Gardens, South Australia
What to know: The six-foot-tall sheep farmer has what Seven calls "a stunning smile". He moonlights as a rodeo cowboy.
Age: 41
Farm: Taylorville, South Australia
What to know: The show's first almond farmer is raising two boys. "I've had my heart broken before, and that was just devastating," he said. "You do need to be brave to find love. I want to get it right this time. I'm ready to find my person."
Age: 37
Farm: Coolabunia, Queensland
What to know: The dairy farmer is, says Seven, "bravely stepping back into the world of dating, carrying both hope and hesitation". Jason says he's been "unlucky" in love: "Being with someone and finding out they want something different in life - you think, are you good enough or is there something wrong with me? I've got a big heart. Gotta find the right one to give it to".
Age: 24
Farm: Forest Range, South Australia
What to know: The third-generation apple farmer is apparently anxious about being on the show. "I'm not a shy boy, but sometimes pretty ladies can make me a little bit nervous. This is going to ruin me ... or I'm going to find the one."
Miranda sets her eyes on farmer Zac from the outset. And Seven says "confident and calculating" Miranda is not interested in playing it sweet.
"I know what I want - and I want Farmer Zac," she says. "I wish for a kiss from Zac tonight. I wish for the next date. And I wish for Jessica to go home. As you know, I do get what I want."
Q: You've been part of Farmer Wants A Wife from the very beginning. What continues to draw you back?
A: Honestly, it's the heart of the show. Farmer Wants A Wife is about genuine people looking for real love. Seeing the farmers and the ladies open to each other and fall in love never stops feeling special. It's incredibly grounding and such a privilege to be part of something so meaningful.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of hosting this series?
A: Being trusted with people's love stories. It's an honour to walk alongside them during such a vulnerable and life-changing time. When it all comes together, it's magic.
Q: How would you describe this season in three words?
A: Sincere. Authentic. Hopeful.
Q: Without giving too much away, what can viewers expect from this season's farmers?
A: We received a record number of applications for the farmers this year - more women applied than ever before, so the bar was incredibly high from the start. These farmers are emotionally open, genuinely committed to the process, and truly ready to share their lives. Viewers will see real vulnerability, courage and a lot of heart. And, of course, a few surprises along the way.
Q: Were there any moments this season that genuinely surprised or moved you?
A: As a host, I thought I'd seen it all, but there were definitely moments where even I didn't know what would happen next. I am always surprised by how quickly real emotions develop; there were moments where connections became real very fast. It is also fascinating when farmers must choose between their hearts and their heads, often following their hearts in ways no one expected. Ultimately, it was the unpredictability - just when you think you know where a connection is heading, a new spark or a difficult conversation shifts everything and keeps everyone on their toes.
Q: Any tips for the ladies on how to win a farmer's heart?
A: Be yourself, be open and don't be afraid of the pace of country life. Farmers value authenticity, kindness and resilience, and someone who's genuinely ready to embrace their world.
Q: Have you got any relationship advice for the hopeful couples?
A: Communicate openly and be patient with each other. Love doesn't need to be rushed, but it does need to be nurtured. Trust the process and stay true to yourself.
Q: What does it mean to you to see so many relationships from the past seasons flourish?
A: It means everything. Knowing that what starts on this show continues well beyond the cameras is truly fulfilling. When I hear updates about marriages, babies or simply happy, connected lives, it reminds me why this series is so special.
