I am in my third year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at CSU, Wagga Wagga. I grew up in north-west Victoria on a mixed cropping and sheep operation and attended school locally. After finishing school, I took a gap year to think about the direction I was going to take considering tertiary study and worked on several fruit farms along the coast of NSW and QLD. I have always been passionate about agriculture, and been grateful for my upbringing on the farm, and my time away from home consolidated my intention to be involved in rural industries in my adult life.
Since commencing my study, I have been fortunate to complete my wool classing stencil and work at a wool store in Wagga. My grandfather can be awarded with inspiring my particular interest in sheep and wool. This, alongside a very fortunate upbringing on our family property, always having positive and encouraging parents and family members, and supportive colleagues, has resulted in me being very passionate about broadening my experience in mixed farming, and I aim to better my knowledge every day.
I am so honoured and excited to be awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, and over the moon to be sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia. I have always been grateful for the work MLA does in extending opportunity for my family as meat producers and cannot wait to broaden my knowledge on meat and livestock under their guidance. It will be such a privilege to meet with other scholars, be guided by MLA, and connect with other young people that also want to contribute to the success of rural communities. The work experience and opportunities provided by being involved with MLA will be invaluable as I come to the end of my studies and look to a career in this area.