Konrad Chung graduated in 1993 and started his career in agriculture as a field officer in Devonport, Tasmania.
Konrad fondly remembers his time studying agricultural science, making new friends, and establishing new networks.
“No matter what year you were in or if you were a staff member, everybody was there to help and support you. As a small faculty, we were a close-knit group and were able to form good bonds,” he said.
“The social events around the Ag Hut were a highlight and continuing the Ag Society traditions was an honour.”
Studying agricultural science has enabled Konrad to have a positive impact on the Tasmanian agricultural industry through his expertise in agronomy, agrochemicals, business planning and soil fertility.
“From growing vegetables, selling products through to advising on seed production, my degree has provided a sound base for understanding issues and how to solve problems,” he said.
“More importantly I am still learning in an ever-changing climate.”
Konrad said that it is important for agricultural science to evolve along with the changing environment and limited resources here is Tasmania.
“Tasmania is in a unique position where it is recognised at the forefront of agricultural production. To continue this momentum, agricultural science needs to continue to investigate the opportunities and solve problems within the industry,” he said.
“Agriculture needs to continue to engage with people and we must maintain Tasmanian agriculture as it is a very important contributor to the Tasmanian economy.”
Across his 30-year career, Konrad has specialised in agronomy and is now an experienced field consultant for Midland Seeds involved in the management of the production of arable food and oil seed crops including wheat, barley, oats, hemp, linseed, ryegrass, field peas and canola seed.
Konrad is thankful for his continued relationship with the University and the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA).
“TIA is a major contributor to the Tasmanian agricultural landscape. We can see how TIA has been part of the development of new crops, orchards, vineyards, poly tunnels, pivot irrigators and technology which are all prevalent in Tasmania today,” he said.
“TIA today has continued to help me solve problems and through interactions at the University, I am able to see the future of Tasmanian agriculture in good hands.”