Caitlyn Coutts-Smith
BAgBusMgt | Charles Sturt University
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2025 Horizon Scholars
Taylah Mahony
BSc (Plant & Agricultural Science), BCCI (Journalism) | University of Southern Queensland
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Caitlyn Coutts-Smith
BAgBusMgt | Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA)
I grew up on a mixed stock and cropping property in Northwest NSW, which was the foundation for my passion for working in the agricultural industry. From an early age, I was immersed in the day-to-day operations of livestock and cropping production, sparking a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into feeding our nation.
Throughout high school, I was fortunate to be involved in a range of agricultural extracurricular activities, which provided invaluable hands-on experience and the opportunity to attend cattle and sheep shows across NSW. These experiences not only strengthened my practical skills but also deepened my understanding of livestock production, breeding, and industry standards. Whilst also introducing me to a network of like-minded individuals who shared my enthusiasm for agriculture.
After high school, I pursued this passion further by enrolling in a Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, where I am currently in my second year. This degree has provided me with a broader perspective on the business and economic aspects of the agricultural industry, complementing my practical background.
I am incredibly grateful to be awarded a AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship and sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia. MLA plays a critical role in advancing the Australian livestock industry, and having their backing is both an honour and a privilege. Their investment in young people like me highlights their commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders.
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Charles Salter
BVSc | James Cook University
Sponsored by Dairy Australia
I have been very fortunate to grow up deeply immersed in all thing’s agriculture.
From a young age I have been heavily involved in my family’s previous lot feeding and now stud angus cattle operation just outside of Dalby on the Darling downs, Qld. I have always had a very strong passion and love for all things agriculture, but in particular the livestock industries, leading me to pursue a career in veterinary science. I am currently a 4th year student at James Cook University and am thoroughly enjoying every aspect of the course so far.
I have a very strong interest in cattle reproduction and production animal medicine and hope to be able to become more involved in these areas in the years to come. I am excited by the opportunity to work alongside producers to help maximise the productivity of their operations as well as implement the new and exciting technologies that are rapidly evolving.
I am very thankful to both AgriFutures and Dairy Australia for giving me this amazing opportunity to be involved with the Horizon Scholarship program. I am extremely excited to explore all the opportunities that come along with it and am truly honoured to be accepted into this program.
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Chris Partridge
BAgSc | University of Adelaide
Sponsored by Hort Innovation
I grew up in South-West Western Australia working on my family’s grapevine nursery. Despite my agricultural upbringing, I didn’t realise that agriculture was my passion until I completed work experience at school with an agricultural research company in York, Western Australia. Having decided that I wanted to study agricultural science, I embarked on a gap year to gain experience outside of horticulture. I worked on an irrigated cropping and cotton farm in Wee Waa, NSW, alongside the family farm and in grain logistics.
I have also worked as a field technician for an agricultural research company conducting trials in both broadacre and horticultural environments. I am now in my second year of studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at The University of Adelaide. When I have completed my degree, I would love to work in the horticulture industry as an agronomist, assisting growers in improving the production potential of their farm or as a researcher contributing to the future of horticulture in Australia.
I am very incredibly thankful to be provided with this opportunity and to have Hort Innovation as my sponsor, especially as I have seen the difference that they make in the industry. I am excited to build new skills, make industry connections and network with students from all over Australia. The opportunities provided by this programme will be life changing for me.
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Elizabeth Glenn
BAg, LLB | University of New England
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
Growing up in Sydney, my love for agriculture came from studying it through high school. Being fortunate enough to have studied agriculture from year 9 – year 12 at Pymble Ladies’ College, my passion to become involved and work in the industry grew, particularly in evolving technology and sustainability issues. It was not until my Agriculture teacher inspired me to challenge myself that I decided to combine a Bachelor of Agriculture with a Bachelor of Laws.
I am currently in my 4th year of my double degree at the University of New England, studying on campus. I have loved being exposed to a variety of industries and working alongside like-minded peers and industry professionals to understand the fundamentals of agriculture and ways we may be able to address arising issues and challenges within the industry, both domestic and international.
After I finish my degree, I hope to complete my Practical Legal training and become an accredited solicitor, working then alongside industry professionals and farmers with a specific perspective on rural and agricultural issues. I am so incredibly grateful to have been awarded the AgriFutures Horizon scholarship and look forward to working with my sponsor AgriFutures. I am eager to broaden my understanding in a variety of issues but am particularly excited to further understand sustainable technologies and practices such as carbon farming and solar farms.
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Ella Wightman
BAgSc (Hons) | University of Queensland
Sponsored by Hort Innovation
Although I do not come from a family farm, I still managed to cultivate a passion for agriculture on the outskirts of Brisbane. This love began at my high school farm, which encouraged me to participate in work experience with the Department of Primary Industries, where I graded sweet potatoes and investigated fall armyworms. My experiences have now led to my final year at the University of Queensland’s Gatton campus, where I am pursuing a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.
Being a casual worker with DPI and connecting with my professors, I have further developed an appreciation for soil health and plant protection. In my opinion, these aspects are crucial to building upon efforts to sustain the planet’s food security while addressing agricultural challenges. I want to be a part of the solution.
I am excited about the trajectory of my future, and I am keen to complete my Honours next year, focusing on soil health and pest management. I believe transforming relevant raw data into information the farmer can utilise is the necessary step for supporting agriculture systems.
I am thrilled to be part of the Horizon scholarship cohort and will utilise every resource available to me to continue my vision for a thriving agricultural industry supported by innovation. I believe I will continue to learn important aspects of consulting with the industry with Hort Innovation as my sponsor. I am grateful to have been granted this opportunity to meet with like-minded individuals and learn from their expertise.
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Eloise Murnane
BAg (Animal Science) | University of Melbourne
Sponsored by Australian Eggs
I was born in Geelong and spent my early years living in suburbia, then spend every weekend on my grandparent’s dairy farm at Forrest located in Southwest Victoria. From this exposure, at a young age I developed a love for agriculture particularly the dairy industry and knew straight away I wanted to work with dairy cattle in the future.
When I was 10 my family moved to a small acreage just outside of Colac where we began our own beef cattle stud and then we eventually took over the entire dairy farm in Forrest as 4th generation farmers. Having the opportunity to spend every day on the farm confirmed my passion for agriculture and I have studied it throughout my education from year 9 through to now, where I am a 2nd year Agriculture student at Melbourne University majoring in production animal science with a goal of working in animal health and nutrition, animal welfare and biosecurity.
I am very honoured to be sponsored by Australian Eggs as one of my favourite hobbies is my flock of pet chickens that I have continued to expand for over 10 years. From raising my chickens, I developed an interest in the poultry sector and have learnt the important role that biosecurity plays in protecting farms from bird flu outbreaks that pose as a constant threat to Australia’s egg industry.
I am very grateful to AgriFutures for awarding me a Horizon Scholarship and I am very keen to see what new opportunities, experiences, knowledge, and people this scholarship will help me acquire over the next two years and into the future.
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Emma Holmes
BAg (Hons) | University of New England
Sponsored by Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC)
I am currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of New England, with plans to complete a fourth year through a Bachelor of Science (Honours). Growing up in Wee Waa, Australia’s Cotton Capital, agriculture has always played a central role in my life. It has shaped my passion for agricultural science, particularly in plant breeding and crop research.
My interest in cotton has grown through hands-on experience, including work in cotton agronomy and with the wheat research team in Narrabri. These roles have allowed me to explore the complexities of crop management, data collection, trial design, and plant performance under varying conditions. Working alongside industry professionals has given me insight into the challenges and opportunities within modern cropping systems and sparked a strong interest in genetic improvement and sustainable production. I’ve also developed skills in interpreting trial data and understanding how research outcomes can be applied at a farm level to improve productivity and efficiency.
I’m incredibly grateful to the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) for sponsoring me through the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship. This opportunity allows me to develop my skills further, expand my professional network, and pursue my goal of contributing to the cotton industry’s future through research and innovation.
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Grace Hoey
BAgSc (Agronomy) | Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by Grain Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).
I am a third year Bachelor of Agricultural Science student majoring in Agronomy at Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga. Growing up on a sheep farm in Wallendbeen NSW, a regional cropping area within the Southwest Slopes Region, fostered my interest in the cropping industry. My university studies have further enhanced my passion for crop production, particularly plant phenology encompassing soil and plant interactions. This has solidified my aspiration to pursue a career in agronomic advisory.
I aim to maximise the productivity of rural cropping communities by recommending agronomical strategies that improve crop responses to external constraints, enhance soil health, and simultaneously mitigate environmental degradation.
I am excited for the placement and workshop opportunities that the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship provides. As this opportunity, which offers diverse industry involvement, will allow me to broaden my knowledge and practical skill set. Additionally, I look forward to growing my confidence in the agronomy industry and connecting with other people who share the same passion as I do.
I am incredibly grateful to be sponsored by the Grain Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). I look forward to building valuable networks and gaining insights regarding GRDC’s research, development, and extension (RD&E) projects aimed at improving the sustainability and productivity of the Australian grain industry. Learning about current innovations, research findings, and industry best practice will enable me to make a meaningful contribution to the agricultural industry.
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Jack Speirs
BAgSc (Agronomy) | University of Queensland
Sponsored by Grain Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).
I’m from a sheep and cropping property in the Riverina region of NSW. Growing up on the property, I’ve always had a strong passion for agriculture— especially Ag tech and how it can help us grow better crops in more sustainable ways.
That interest led me to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland, where I’m currently in my second-year majoring in agronomy. Alongside my studies, I’ve been working with a company that uses satellite technology to map weeds — an experience that’s opened my eyes to what’s possible with technology in the future of farming.
I’m honoured to be a recipient of the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, proudly sponsored by Grain Research and Development Corporation. It’s a huge opportunity that will give me a real leg up in my career — from collaborating with industry professionals to gaining invaluable experience through work placements and connecting with other passionate, like-minded scholars.
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James Haslett
BSc (Soil Science) | University of Adelaide
Sponsored by Hort Innovation
I have grown up on a horticultural family farm in the Riverland, Murtho SA, for my whole life. This has given me experience in citrus, stone fruit, viticulture, and almonds and the various aspects of harvesting and management practices necessary. Living on a farm with varying soil types has demonstrated to me how noticeable soil composition and structure affects plant health and subsequently farming management.
Additionally, beginning in 2021 I have also worked on a broadacre cereal cropping in a nearby town, Loxton, during their harvest periods. This has shown me a whole different side of agriculture and further demonstrated how important and influential soil health is for all types of plant-based agriculture. This has prompted my fascination of soil health and steered my university study toward pursuing more knowledge in this area.
I am very grateful that Hort Innovation has sponsored me for the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship and look forward to the opportunities that it represents. In particular, exposure to world class businesses through the placement program, the Canberra based workshop and the opportunity to interact with like-minded peers.
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Jasmin Hanlon
BAgSc (Crop, Pasture & Animal Science) | Murdoch University
Sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC)
I grew up on a small hobby farm in Gidgegannup, WA, where I was surrounded by an agricultural community, but it was when I attended the WA college of Agriculture Cunderdin that my passion for the industry flourished.
On completion of year 12, I knew that I wanted to further my interest, which lead me to begin a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, Majoring in Crop and Pasture and Animal Science at Murdoch University. I am particularly interested in integrated crop management and the relationship between cropping and livestock sectors in building a sustainable production system.
In the future, I hope to be working as an agronomist where I can encourage and assist WA producers to adopt sustainable practises to optimise their grain and pasture production.
I am extremely grateful to AgriFutures and Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) for providing me this amazing opportunity to collaborate with industry professionals, gain valuable knowledge and hands on experience through placements.
I look forward to what the next two years of this scholarship brings!
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John Bowie
BVSc | Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by Baiada
I grew up in the Southern Riverina, in Deniliquin NSW, where my family has been farming cereals, lamb/wool and more recently rice, for 4 generations. Agriculture has always been a passion of mine, and I strive to be as involved in agricultural industries as I can be.
After completing my schooling in Deniliquin, I worked on a beef feedlot to further my knowledge in agriculture and to foster my interest in production Animal Medicine.
I am currently studying Veterinary Science and am passionate about the role of veterinarians in supporting animal health, welfare, and production. Upon graduating, I aspire to work in rural practice, assisting producers in optimizing livestock health and productivity. Veterinarians play a crucial role in the sustainability, productivity and future of Australian agriculture, and I am eager to contribute to the industry in a meaningful way.
When I am not studying in Wagga Wagga, I am either farming back in Deniliquin or contract harvesting throughout central NSW.
I am incredibly grateful to AgriFutures for awarding me this Horizon Scholarship and for the opportunities it provides. I look forward to engaging with industry leaders, expanding my knowledge, and building connections that will help shape my future in agriculture.
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Kayla Wallis
BAgSc | University of Adelaide
Sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC)
My passion for the agricultural industry was established in Pinnaroo, where I grew up on my family’s broadacre property, producing wheat, barley, lentils, and merino sheep. I have always loved living in a small town and helping around the farm, however I didn’t realise the true value until graduating high school.
In my first year out of school, I started studying veterinary technology, however early on I realised, despite my interest in animal health, it was not the industry I wanted to work in. For the remainder of the year, I sought out work in many agricultural settings before working at Viterra as a grain classifier for 6 months during harvest and non-harvest periods.
During these working experiences, I realised the extensive opportunities available in agriculture and loved the sense of community the industry holds. These experiences and my degree have confirmed my passion.
Coming from a property in the Southern Mallee, I understand the impact of grains research and variety improvement to low rainfall areas. In the future I hope to gain satisfaction helping growers produce even when faced with unfavourable conditions, by working with varieties that have better water efficiency/disease tolerance.
I am very grateful to be a recipient of the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship and to be sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). It is a privilege to be selected for this amazing opportunity to work alongside professionals at GRDC and for the guidance/experiences the program will provide. I recognise the importance of networking and building industry connections throughout my academic journey, adding value and perspective to my studies.
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Lachlan Sedgwick
BAgSc (Animal Production) | University of Sydney
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
Born and raised in Cootamundra, NSW, my deep-rooted connection with agriculture stems from growing up in a community where farming is the heartbeat of daily life. In 2025, I embarked on a transformative educational journey at the University of Sydney, pursuing a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with a major in animal production. This choice was driven by my long-standing interest in the practical and innovative aspects of farming, particularly in enhancing livestock productivity and welfare.
Moving to Sydney marked a significant phase in my life, where I could engage more profoundly with agricultural studies and research. My ambition to contribute to overcoming the challenges faced by Australian agriculture has only grown since then. I am incredibly honoured to be a recipient of the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, which has opened doors to invaluable hands-on experiences and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
At the University of Sydney, I have not only expanded my academic knowledge but also taken on the role of President of the Agricultural Society. This position has allowed me to lead initiatives that strengthen industry relationships and advocate for educational enhancement in agriculture. My goal is to introduce more individuals from diverse backgrounds into agriculture, ensuring the industry’s sustainable and inclusive growth.
I am grateful for the Horizon Scholarship as it supports my aspirations to actively engage in and promote sustainable agricultural practices. I am eager to continue building my skills and understanding through AgriFutures, aiming to make a positive impact on the industry that has been a significant part of my life.
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Lily Delves
BE, BSc (Environment & Water) | Australian National University
Sponsored by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC)
I have grown up on an irrigation farm in Griffith NSW, where I developed a strong interest in agriculture and a deep appreciation for water as a vital, and often limited, resource. This foundation has led me to pursue a double degree in Engineering and Science (Environmental and Water Science). I’m currently in my fourth year of study at the Australian National University in Canberra.
Through recent experience in the rice industry, I’ve expanded my understanding of Australian agriculture and the importance of innovation in achieving long-term sustainability. I’ve enjoyed learning about the real-world challenges that these industries face, and how they’re adapting through smarter infrastructure, emerging technologies, and more integrated environmental planning. My interests lie in the intersection of agriculture, science and technology, and the environment. I recognise that each of these plays a vital role in improving production systems, strengthening ecosystems and supporting rural communities.
I’m grateful to have the opportunity to be a 2025 Horizon Scholar and I am excited to work with my industry sponsor, Fisheries Research and Development Corporation. Their projects and research are highly interesting and demonstrate commitment to sustainability. I’m looking forward to the placements, the connections, and all that I’ll learn throughout the program. It’s a privilege to be part of such a future-focused initiative.
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Marcus Attard
BAgSc (Resource Economics) | University of Sydney
Sponsored by Riverine Plains
Growing up living in both Western Sydney and the Southern Tablelands, I had the opportunity to experience life in the country and the inner city. Having spent most weekends working on the family farm, I would go into grocery stores and fashion retailers with a greater appreciation for the hard work of farmers in Australia who produce the food and textiles so many take for granted.
These experiences have led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science at the University of Sydney where I major in Resource Economics. I hope that by understanding the future for Australian agricultural goods, I can help local farmers stay at the forefront of global markets and reap the rewards of being some of the highest quality producers anywhere in the world.
I am extremely grateful to AgriFutures and Riverine Plains for giving me the opportunity to participate in the Horizon scholars program and look forward to taking the next step in my career while continuing to learn about the markets and supply chains that play a crucial role in Australian agriculture. I’m excited to meet and work alongside industry professionals and other passionate students and I look forward to forging connections with all the amazing people working in this industry.
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Matthew Pescatore
BVSc | James Cook University
Sponsored by Dairy Australia
I grew up in suburban southeast Queensland, but my love for the outdoors sparked a deep interest in agriculture and its ever-evolving challenges. After finishing school, I took a couple of gap years to travel and work before beginning my studies in Veterinary Science at James Cook University in Townsville. Since moving north, my passion for not only production animal health but also agriculture as a whole has continued to grow.
I am particularly interested in the intersection of veterinary medicine, nutrition, and biosecurity and how this can be utilised to improve efficiency. The rapid advancement of new technologies in agriculture truly excites me and I want to use my knowledge of veterinary science to help integrate new infrastructure into the agricultural sector.
It is a privilege to be awarded the Horizon Scholarship, and I look forward to expanding my knowledge while connecting with others who share a similar passion for agriculture. I am extremely grateful to my sponsor, Dairy Australia, for providing me with the opportunity to immerse myself in the Dairy industry. The connections I will build and the insights I will gain through Dairy Australia are invaluable, and I am eager to grasp this opportunity with both hands.
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Paris Weller
BAg | University of Melbourne
Sponsored by Marine Bioproducts CRC (MBCRC)
Growing up on a beef cattle property in North-East Victoria sparked my passion for both the people and animals that shape our agricultural communities. This was further fuelled by my love for science and agriculture in school, leading me to study a Bachelor of Agriculture at The University of Melbourne where I am now in my second year.
Being surrounded by conversations of cattle genetics and breeding from a young age encouraged a fascination in this area that I knew I wanted to pursue. However, as I broadened my experiences, I came to realise that my love was for the agricultural industry as whole, rather than just one small component. In my gap year I worked on a broadacre cropping farm in Western Australia which I absolutely loved, confirming my decision to build a career in agriculture. That same year, I had the chance to scuba dive in some of the most stunning underwater environments, reigniting my long-held interest in marine biology. While I’d always considered studying marine biology, I felt agriculture offered a more versatile path that allowed me to become part of the cattle industry while having potential to provide opportunities in the marine industry.
I’m incredibly lucky to be sponsored by the Marine Bioproducts CRC – it’s an exciting and unique blend of my passions and I’m eager to see where it leads. I’m truly grateful to have been selected for the Horizons Scholarship and can’t wait for the people, places and opportunities that it will bring!
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Sam Carwardine
BVSc | Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA)
I was born in Sydney into a big family, my childhood was spent camping throughout NSW and spending time at my grandparent’s property in Bungendore, NSW. These experiences were the opening for my passion of working with livestock.
Throughout my university experience I have been fortunate enough to gain exposure in a variety of agricultural and wildlife industries, ranging from cattle stations in the Territory to wildlife sanctuaries in Africa, there has yet to be an experience I haven’t loved. After being accepted into Veterinary Science at Charels Sturt University I have been able to further explore my passion for working with livestock, and thoroughly enjoyed developing my livestock handling skills. Upon graduating next year, I aspire to enter a rural mixed practice, working closely with local producers and the broader community to continue to achieve high levels of production and animal welfare. I firmly believe that veterinarians play a key role within the agricultural industry working alongside producers and consumers to achieve high quality, sustainable products that ensure livestock industries and rural communities remain a key component of Australian society.
I am honoured to be a part of the Horizon Scholarship 2025 cohort and cannot thank AgriFutures and my sponsor MLA enough for the opportunity. The learning opportunities and industry connections will help shape the foundations of my career as a veterinarian.
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Stephanie Lezaich
BAgSc (Livestock Production) | Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
I grew up in Canberra and though school I planned to go into the health sciences, but my gap year job on a Queensland cattle station gave me a love for Australian agriculture that I never expected.
I am now in my third year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Livestock Production) degree at Charles Sturt University, and my fifth year in the industry and am more passionate and excited than every about agriculture.
My studies so far have allowed me to learn about the Australian agricultural industry beyond our Northern cattle stations and has offered me many opportunities and experiences across the industry from, working in abattoirs to volunteering and working at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
I am very grateful to receive the AgriFutures Horizon scholarship and have the opportunity to work with AgriFutures to further develop my knowledge and understanding and skilled in Australian agriculture while growing my networks with leaders in our industry.
Through my career I hope to work in National and International food security and agricultural environmental and industry sustainability. As a significant player in the global agricultural market Australia needs to work to be leaders in sustainable agriculture, while continuing to look to others to develop our knowledge and practices and I hope to be a part of this.
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Taylah Mahony
BSc (Plant & Agricultural Science), BCCI (Journalism) | University of Southern Queensland
Sponsored by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC)
My name is Taylah Mahony, and I am a third-year student studying a Bachelor of Science and, Communication and Creative Industries, majoring in Plant and Agricultural Science and Journalism at the University of Southern Queensland.
I currently study and reside in Toowoomba, living on residential colleges. But before moving to Toowoomba just over two years ago, I graduated high school at Coolum State High in 2022. Growing up in the regional and urban areas of the Sunshine Coast, I was always drawn to the endless possibilities rural Australia had to offer. When I was young, I was fortunate to volunteer and assist in drought relief drives for my Auntie’s charity Farm Angels. These experiences alongside a need to make a difference to the world, truly ignited my passion to support and create change for our farmers and the agricultural industry.
I hope with my double degree, my passion for leadership, the support from the AgriFutures Horizon scholarship and my sponsors Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), that I’ll be able to pave a pathway within the emerging agricultural industries. With particular interest in Aquaculture and the influence it is having on land and sea for Australian Agriculture. I cannot wait to learn and grow within this space, and hope that with my developing knowledge, I’ll be able to give back to our farmers and Australia very soon!