Georgia Ditchfield’s degree has enabled her to immerse herself in a number of diverse learning experiences, including two overseas study tours that have enriched her understanding of agriculture beyond the Australian context.

One of Georgia’s standout experiences was a tour of the USA, where she had the chance to explore different agricultural businesses.

“The US was quite similar to Australia in terms of agricultural practices,” she said. “It gave me valuable insights into the similarities and shared challenges we face globally.”

However, it was her trip to Fiji that proved to be the most eye-opening.

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Georgia explains, “I realised that despite growing similar crops, the agricultural practices in Fiji were vastly different. I noticed significant differences in education levels too – the concepts shared between adults in the industry were often the same ones I learnt as a teenager in Australia.”

Back home in Australia, Georgia’s career is already taking off. She recently started working in a soil and plant tissue testing laboratory, focusing on plant and seed testing.

“I’m responsible for testing plant tissues for nutrients and nitrates, as well as conducting germination and vigor testing for crops like chickpeas, wheat and barley,” Georgia said.

The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship has played a crucial role in supporting Georgia’s career aspirations. Across this two-year program, Georgia will receive a bursary of $10,000 to aid with university and living expenses, and attend annual four-day professional development workshops.

These resources are instrumental in helping Georgia develop the skills and connections needed to thrive in the agricultural industry. Georgia will also complete two weeks of industry work placements each year within her sponsor’s industry – the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).

“I feel incredibly fortunate to be supported by GRDC through the Horizon Scholarship,” Georgia said. “The opportunities I’ve received so far have been invaluable in helping me grow both professionally and personally.”

“The GRDC is proud to be supporting young professionals like Georgia through the Horizon Scholarship and hope that this continued investment into future generations broadens the scope of students who look to explore career opportunities in the grains industry,” explained Capacity and Extension Manager at GRDC, Charleton Glenn.

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With a strong foundation in agricultural science, international experience and the support of the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, Georgia is well on her way to making a meaningful impact in the industry.

AgriFutures Australia is committed to supporting the next generation of leaders that will drive the future prosperity of Australian rural industries and communities. The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship is awarded to students studying an agriculture-related undergraduate degree or a Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths/Finance (STEM) degree with relevant majors which align to agriculture.

Applications for the 2026 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship open in November 2025.

Find out more about the Horizon Scholarship