Ailish King
Bachelor of Science and Advanced Studies (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience) at The University of Sydney
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2024 Horizon Scholars
Alyssa Seckinger-Crow
Bachelor of Science (Mechanical Engineering) at The University of Melbourne
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Isabelle Duff
Bachelor of Advanced Science and Commerce (Genetics and Accounting) at The University of New South Wales
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James Meggitt
Bachelor of Agriculture (Agricultural Economics) at The University of Melbourne
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Joshua Bramley
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic) and Computer Science at The University of Sydney
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Julian Craven
Bachelor of Science (Agriculture Innovation) at the Australian National University
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Lauren McIlveen
Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University
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Maria Constantino
Bachelor of Science and Advanced Studies (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience)
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Nick Myers
Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University
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Ailish King
Bachelor of Science and Advanced Studies (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience) at The University of Sydney
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
I grew up in Sydney with a menagerie of animals, where from a young age, I have always adored them and their individuality, solidifying my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian. Throughout highschool, I was fortunate enough to attend Barker College and complete their HSC agriculture course, further propagating my appreciation and interest into the production, health, and welfare of livestock enterprises within cattle and sheep industries.
I am currently in my third year of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience at the University of Sydney, where I hope to complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine postgraduate. Throughout university, I have been exposed to these industries on a larger scale through undertaking multifaceted and opportunistic experiences, such as receiving the 2023 Dairy Research Foundation scholarship, where I gained tremendous insights into the research, technology and fundamentals of animal health and productivity of global dairy industries. I enjoy the thrill associated with research, particularly within livestock medicine to maximise welfare, a pathway I’d love to explore in future studies and professionally.
The igniting of personal interests through newfound experiences is one I highly value as an individual growing up with minimal agricultural exposure, allowing a proud appreciation of endorsing those from urban backgrounds and women into the industry to grow.
It is hard to put into words the gratitude I have for receiving the scholarship. I cannot wait to work with my sponsor, AgriFutures Australia, to expand my horizons and gain invaluable knowledge from industry professionals. I am excited for the industry-specific placements and network building workshops, where not only will my own knowledge expand, but the ability to promote positive progression within industries will increase also.
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Alyssa Seckinger-Crow
Bachelor of Science (Mechanical Engineering) at The University of Melbourne
Sponsored by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
I grew up next to the beach in Melbourne and developed a deep passion for our ocean. While the city was close by, we spent weekend in nature and as I transitioned from pool swimming to endurance open water swimming, I spent many mornings out in the ocean at dawn. My interest in sustainable agriculture also started to grow from a far during high school; my family has a cattle station in rural Queensland, and witnessing their incredible efforts to upskill farmers in regenerative agriculture through the Lachlan Hughes Foundation made me curious about the future of agriculture in Australia.
After finishing school, I lived in Ghana as a volunteer and gained a glimpse into the necessity for maintaining a productive ocean to support the livelihoods of many vulnerable communities. I returned to Melbourne, where I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Science, Majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
Throughout my studies, I have pursued my interest in innovation, and I am particularly looking to explore the nexus between engineering and aquaculture in my future career, with a focus on the sustainability of fisheries. I am also interested in the emerging seaweed industry, and its potential in many areas, such as becoming a nutritious food source for humans and animal feed.
I am extremely honoured to be awarded a Horizon Scholarship and am excited to connect with scholars and industry professionals. To me, the industry work placement is an incredible opportunity to discover the innovation occurring within the fisheries industry and I am really looking forward to taking the next step in my career progression.
I am thrilled to be sponsored by FRDC and look forward to being able to expand my knowledge, skills and experience in the wider fisheries and aquaculture fields.
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Chloe Frank
Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia
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.
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Cleo Noonan
Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Curtin University
Sponsored by the Mt Burdett Foundation
I am lucky enough to be a part of a long-standing sheep and wheat farming family in the great south of Western Australia. However, I grew up in Perth city which has given me an interesting perspective on both urban and rural life. On completion of my schooling at Sacred Heart College in Sorrento, I knew I wanted to take my knack for science and combine it with my passion for agriculture, which naturally led me to begin my Bachelor of Science, majoring in Agricultural Science at Curtin University.
I am extremely grateful to have been awarded the Horizon Scholarship and eagerly await what the next two years will bring. Having the chance to network with industry professionals from all over Australia and gain further workplace experience through placements with leading companies, are opportunities I know will propel me into a great career in Ag! I would especially like to thank my sponsor the Mt Burdett Foundation, who are continually funding people and projects to ensure the betterment of rural and regional WA. In the future, I hope to give back to the Western Australian farming community by growing my knowledge and skillset to ensure the continued success of our agricultural industry for future generations.
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Edison West
Bachelor of Environmental Science at Flinders University
Sponsored by Hort Innovation
I am currently undertaking third year of a Bachelor of Environmental Science at Flinders University. Growing up in the Adelaide Hills on a small hobby farm 30 minutes from the CBD, I was surrounded by a variety of horticulture and agricultural businesses from an early age. Yet I also became aware of the need to balance agriculture with the preservation of this sensitive and important region. This sparked my interest in the intersect between agriculture and the environment and ultimately led me to choosing my respective degree.
I’m now passionate about applying my scientific knowledge gained from university, into making Australian Horticulture and Agriculture a more sustainable and profitable practice for the future. In particular, I have a growing interest in harnessing purportedly sustainable techniques, like regenerative agriculture and Agrivoltaics, to better understand and manage the interactions of these practices with the environment. After my degree, I hope to gain further experience within the industry in Australia and overseas to enhance my knowledge and skills and translate these into practical solutions to the benefit of the Australian agricultural sector.
I am immensely thankful and excited for any opportunities that the Horizon Scholarship will offer me and am determined to make the most of all my newfound skills, knowledge and networks gained along the way. Additionally, I am thrilled to have the support of Hort Innovation through this program and look forward to creating these new networks and gaining further experience as I embark on finding my place within the industry.
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Eloise Knox
Bachelor of Rural Science at The University of New England
Sponsored by Hort Innovation
Whilst I have always possessed an interest in science, it was attending Barker College and taking Agriculture for my HSC where it became clear to me how my interests in science as well as my love for the country and the land could relate to real-life scenarios and would combine into a career for me.
Since then, moving to Armidale to study a Bachelor of Rural Science at UNE has cemented for me a deep and motivating passion for agriculture and has confirmed that this is the industry I want to immerse myself in.
I am very excited and grateful to be awarded one of the Horizon Scholarships and I look forward to the opportunities that it can offer me. I am eager to broaden my work experience to horticulture, having spent recent summers working on grain harvest and cotton irrigation. I am very excited to work with Hort Innovation and see how my interests in sustainable production to combat food security can be applied to the horticulture industry and the important role innovative technologies will play in this future.
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Georgia Ditchfield
Bachelor of Rural Science at The University of New England
Sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation
I grew up on a mixed farm near Coonamble NSW. This upbringing shaped me into the person I am today and started my passion for agriculture and science. I have developed a love for plant production, especially in cereal crops through previous jobs working in grain quality and control.
This year is my third year at the University of New England studying Rural Science. I have enjoyed learning about all aspects across many different industries. I have recently attended an international agribusiness study tour to the USA that has broadened my horizons. It has helped to understand how other countries operate and how Australian industries compare. I hope that upon completion of my degree, I will move into research and development, improving yields and genetics.
I am extremely grateful to AgriFutures Australian and the GRDC for being awarded this scholarship and opportunity. I look forward to connecting with like-minded peers and working on my professional development through the program.
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Isabelle Duff
Bachelor of Advanced Science and Commerce (Genetics and Accounting) at The University of New South Wales
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
I grew up on a farm near Manildra, NSW, where my parents ran Merino sheep, beef cattle and cropping operations. I am in my fourth year of an Advanced Science and Commerce degree at the University of New South Wales, majoring in Genetics and Accounting. I am looking forward to completing my honours year in 2025 in genetics.
I am passionate about sustainable agriculture and the important role of land conservation in the future of Australian ag. Throughout school I developed a passion for science, in particular biology, and graduated from Pymble Ladies’ College in 2019. After school I worked on my family property for a year, reinforcing my childhood passion for animal health, land regeneration and farm management. Whilst studying, I have been fascinated by the potential to apply biotechnological and biomolecular research to Australian agriculture. I hope to help create a future where broad acre agriculture operates increasingly with new, exciting and specialised genetic and automative technology.
I am incredibly grateful to be a recipient of the Horizon Scholarship, it is a program I have hoped to apply for since high school and I am looking forward to making the most of the opportunity. I am excited to work alongside my sponsor, AgriFutures Australia to develop skills and help contribute to change in the industry.
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Jack McKay
Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
Growing up on a small sheep farm in central Victoria and having family who live nearby who are immersed in agriculture, has led to my connection and passion to be a part of the agricultural industry. In 2022, I moved to Wagga Wagga to study a Bachelor of Agriculture Science degree at Charles Sturt University. It is since moving up to Wagga, that I have furthered my ambition to be a part of and contribute to finding solutions to the challenges that face the way agriculture is practiced in Australia. Over the last couple of years, I have been amazed at the research and development that goes on behind the scenes of one of the country’s largest exporting industries.
Entering the final two years of my degree, I have become aware of how invaluable hands-on experience is within the agricultural industry. I am beyond grateful to receive the AgriFutures Horizon scholarship which will allow me to embrace these hands-on experiences and also network and collaborate with industry leaders and professionals.
I am excited to work with AgriFutures to expand my knowledge and have the opportunity to learn about many aspects of agricultural industries within Australia. During my time with AgriFutures, I am confident I will build lasting connections that will help me to develop the skills needed to contribute positively to sustainable agriculture practices.
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James Meggitt
Bachelor of Agriculture (Agricultural Economics) at The University of Melbourne
Sponsored by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Having grown up on a Rainbow Trout and Cattle farm near Alexandra in Victoria’s North-East, I have always had a deep-rooted passion for agriculture. With family members involved in various facets of the agricultural sector, I’ve always been drawn to the opportunities and experiences it offers.
After completing my final year of high school at a boarding school in Melbourne in 2021, I embarked on a gap year in England. Working as a teaching assistant at a boarding school, the experience taught me valuable skills, but I shortly realised that teaching might not be my calling. Nevertheless, it provided me with valuable insights and abilities that I believe will be beneficial in the agricultural industry in terms of communication, teamwork, and leadership.
Returning to Australia in 2023, I enrolled in the Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Ag Economics. Living on campus at one of the residential colleges, I’ve been involved in various activities, including representing the university in the 2023 ICMJ team and advocating for agriculture and rural Australia among my urban peers.
With a keen interest in aquaculture, as well as livestock and supply chain operations, I am excited about the prospects of working in these areas upon completing my degree.
I am thrilled to have been granted an opportunity by AgriFutures Australia and the FRDC, and I am eager to dive in and contribute to the industry.
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Jamie Vincent
Bachelor of Agribusiness at The University of Western Australia
Sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation
I lived on my family’s farm in Cadoux, Western Australia, for a short time before living where I do now in Perth. However, where I live hasn’t stopped me from the connection I have to the bush, learning many things along the way whilst I could find the time to work on the farm. This has ultimately led to my passion to work in the industry, primarily working with WA’s staple crops. I have been influenced by my dad to study agribusiness at UWA, by seeing the thorough work that can be done which has huge impacts for growers in the region.
Immediately after graduating in 2022, I spent my summer harvesting for a grower where my exposure to grains and overall management of farm businesses grew immensely. Now, since completing two seasons with them, I am starting to gain traction in different aspects of agribusiness, ultimately sparking excitement to learn about how processes can be improved to benefit them.
I am thrilled to be sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and hope our relationship can enable myself to learn new things related to our challenges in WA agriculture. I think the opportunity to work with the GRDC will be priceless in gaining industry knowledge and experience as well as the exposure it grants to industry leaders and events. I am very grateful to be awarded the Horizon Scholarship and excited to see where it takes me with the knowledge I gain and the people I meet.
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Joshua Bramley
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronic) and Computer Science at The University of Sydney
Sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia
I grew up on a small farm in the Southern Highlands of NSW. I’ve always loved building and fixing things – from fences to sheds, cattle, and sheep. Being keen to continue building practical things in a tangible way led me to study a Bachelor of Mechatronic Engineering / Computer Science at the University of New South Wales.
I’ve always loved automation and have been fascinated by autonomous robots in precision agriculture: spot sprayers, advanced autosteer systems and more. I see these emerging technologies as a fantastic opportunity for increased productivity as we feed an ever-growing population. Recently I’ve enjoyed blending this love of autonomous systems with the power of cloud computing and technologies to create accessible remote systems. I’m excited to see where new opportunities lie in developing solutions to the challenges people face in normal operations.
The 2024 Horizon Scholarship is an exciting new adventure which will open doors to both opportunities and a bunch of awesome people. I’m excited to meet other scholars, learn about the challenges and opportunities in different agricultural contexts. I’m also looking forward to opportunities with new systems, technologies, and practices through placement. I’m very thankful to AgriFutures and Meat and Livestock Australia for the opportunity to be a part of this program!
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Julian Craven
Bachelor of Science (Agriculture Innovation) at the Australian National University
Cotton Research & Development Corporation
I grew up in the South Gippsland region of Victoria, multiple extended stops travelling around Australia in a caravan with my family, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Shoal Bay in NSW for my high schooling, Griffith NSW and currently in Canberra undertaking my studies! Living in Canberra from 2021-2024 has felt like home, having never lived in a city, I feel like the bush capital is a great mix of city life but endless opportunities to escape! Canberra has been fantastic to meet other rural students as well as opportunities in engaging in hobbies of mine such as AFL, cricket, hiking, golf and so many others!
Agriculture has always been a big part of my life, growing up in rural Victoria and with parents closely linked to the industry. Although life has taken me geographically around the country, agriculture has remained who I am as a person and what I aspire to achieve in my professional career. I am strongly passionate about sustainable agriculture, particularly in the water science spectrum as well as keen interests in international and domestic engagements between industries and markets in an increasingly globalised world.
Being awarded the Horizon Scholarship has been a great honour and I look forward to working with my industry sponsor, CRDC, through engagements such as work experience and mentorships. I hope to really utilise my industry connections in gaining a further understanding in the science, RD&E, and leadership aspects of agriculture. I can only anticipate how beneficial this scholarship will be in progressing my professional development in the industry as well as discovering more about who I aspire to be in the workforce following my tertiary studies. I look forward to what the future brings!
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Lachlan Craig
Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne
Sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation
I am currently in my second year of a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne, intending to major in plant and soil science. I was raised on a mixed farming property near Harrow in Western Victoria. It is there, from a young age I began to develop a strong love of agriculture. On completing high school in Adelaide, I returned to home to complete a gap year on farm, furthering my skills and broadening my knowledge. This year of practical work further ignited my passion for agriculture and the love of everything involved in farming.
I am very interested in the plant and soil sciences aspect of agriculture as it can be applied in many ways and used in different enterprises. I am passionate about the relationship between livestock and cropping systems in a mixed farm setting, and how different enterprises can benefit one another.
I am very excited to receive this amazing opportunity of the Horizon Scholarship, and importantly, I am especially looking forward to working with my sponsor GRDC. I cannot wait to learn valuable information on placement, meet like-minded people and build valuable relationships throughout this experience.
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Lauren McIlveen
Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by Australian Eggs
I grew up in Camperdown, southwest Victoria, where I was fortunate enough to be part of a rural community centred around agriculture. After finishing high school, I started an Animal Science degree at Charles Sturt University with the aim to work towards a career in livestock production. I later transferred into the Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/ Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree, of which I am currently in my fifth year. Whilst undertaking my tertiary education I have gained experience working in a wide variety of agricultural sectors ranging from dairies to beef feedlots to broadacre cropping. These rich and fulfilling opportunities have allowed me to develop my passion for agriculture further.
After graduation I would love to work as a rural mixed practice veterinarian. I am passionate about working alongside producers to achieve their production aims, through genetic selection and pasture utilisation to improve overall herd health. I have a strong interest in biosecurity and preventive veterinary medicine, especially in intensive production systems. I believe that improving animal welfare and production goes hand in hand with productivity and hope that I can have a positive impact in supporting the people and rural communities that are heavily dependent on agriculture.
Being selected as one of the recipients of the Horizon Scholarship is such a privilege. The exceptional networking opportunities and exposure to emerging industries and technologies, is something that I am excited to be a part of. I am incredibly grateful to my sponsor Australian Eggs for providing me the opportunity to learn more about the Australian poultry industry and become immersed in an industry that I have previously had very little exposure to. I look forward to gaining a greater insight into the layer industry and the broader aspects of the poultry supply chain within Australia.
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Maria Constantino
Bachelor of Science and Advanced Studies (Animal and Veterinary Bioscience)
Sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation
Growing up in Sydney city, I never had much exposure to agriculture and livestock industries. However, a love for animals pushed me into studying an Animal and Veterinary Science degree at the University of Sydney. Here, I eagerly immersed myself in courses that explored the intricacies of farming practices, livestock management, and environmental sustainability. My academic journey in agricultural and animal science has served as a gateway to the industry and allowed me to interact with and gain knowledge from industry professionals.
I am driven to expand people’s knowledge about the abundant opportunities offered within the agricultural and animal sectors, particularly given my background as someone who did not grow up with much industry exposure. I am so grateful to have received this scholarship and am very much looking forward to being around people who share the same passion and interests as me. Participating in a program like this wasn’t something I had envisioned in high school, yet I am fully confident that it will be one of the most enriching opportunities in my life.
In a world marked by constant evolution and progress, organisations such as the Grains Research and Development Corporation play a pivotal role in driving innovation and fostering positive transformation within this sector. I am very excited to have a corporation like this guide me in future years and help me navigate my personal and professional development.
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Nick Myers
Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt University
Sponsored by AgriFutures Australia
I grew up in a small country town in Central Victoria called Stuart Mill where my family have farmed and produced prime lamb for four generations. I have loved being immersed within this lifestyle from a young age with the freedom and opportunities it has provided me.
My experience in the agriculture industry is vast, ranging from harvest work to ram sales to mustering on beef properties to starting my own Poll Dorset stud and I am yet to find an aspect I do not enjoy. I was then fortunate enough to be accepted into the Veterinary Science course at Charles Sturt University which has helped to immerse myself further within the industry. Upon graduating next year, I hope to utilise my skills in a rural community, providing producers with assistance and guidance on animal production and welfare. I believe veterinarians play a pivotal role in the community and on a larger scale, the agricultural industry which is why I am extremely excited and passionate to be a part of the future of agriculture.
I am honoured and would like to thank AgriFutures for awarding me this Horizon Scholarship and accepting me into the 2024 cohort. I am fervently looking forward to the industry connections and educational opportunities it will provide.
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Ruby Fox
Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science at the University of Tasmania
Sponsored by Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre
I was born in Sydney, and lived in the city until I was 10, however, I was lucky enough to spend my holidays visiting my family’s farm or heading down the coast to explore NSW’s rural coastal communities. I learned to surf at a young age, and Surf Life Saving helped me to understand the power and beauty of the ocean. When we moved to Margaret River, WA, I was able to fully experience untouched coastal ecosystems, and carried my love for the ocean throughout high school science. Moving to Perth as a young adult made me realise just how much I missed, and valued, time spent in nature, and that’s what helped me decide to move to Tasmania to study Marine and Antarctic Science.
While studying Marine Biology and Marine and Antarctic Governance in Tasmania, I have begun to understand aquaculture concepts in detail for the first time. I am fascinated by the way that aquaculture divides communities and I am interested in methods of policy and regulation that can help address its social and environmental concerns. Coming from a farming family, it has been interesting to contrast methods and attitudes of aquaculture and fisheries to those of land-based agriculture, and I hope this scholarship will allow me to explore this further.
I believe that the future of marine conservation will be driven by economic incentivisation, as we attempt to close the gap between scientific knowledge, political action, and climate anxiety in our communities. This is why I am so excited to be sponsored by the Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre. Their passion for sustainable innovation is so inspiring, and I can’t wait to meet the entrepreneurs and scientists at the forefront of biotechnology in Australia.
I am so grateful to have been awarded the Horizon’s Scholarship this year and can’t wait to make the most of the new connections and opportunities it might provide.
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Sasha Gifford
Bachelor of Agricultural Science at The University of Adelaide
Sponsored by Hort Innovation
My family have been dried fruit producers for Sunraysia since the end of World War II and have had mixed farming enterprises in the Wimmera region. Despite my family’s long history in the industry, I didn’t find my passion for horticulture until I worked in my gap year on a large vineyard in southwest NSW that grew a large variety of wine grapes. I was also a field technician for a few small pest trials in vineyards, citrus orchids and almonds. I am now in my second year of studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at The University of Adelaide.
After I have completed my degree, I would like to be working in the horticultural industry as an agronomist that assist growers in managing their pest and disease or plant nutrition, as through my studies this is what I have found a particular interest for.
I am very grateful to have this opportunity and to have Hort Innovation as my sponsor. I am excited to build new skills, make industry connections and network with students from all over Australia. The workshops and work experience opportunities from this scholarship will be a great benefit to me and will broaden my knowledge in the industry.