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Students receive $133,000 to make a positive impact on the Tasmanian agricultural industry

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Agricultural science scholarships presentation

The future looks bright for agricultural science students who were awarded scholarships totalling over $133,000 to pursue their passion of making a positive impact on Tasmania’s agriculture and food sector.

Director of the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA), Professor Mike Rose, presented certificates to students at a celebratory afternoon tea in Hobart this afternoon. The students are enrolled in a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours at the University of Tasmania, which is taught by TIA at both Hobart and Launceston campuses.

“A degree in agricultural science develops industry-ready graduates who could pursue careers across a diverse range of roles including farmer, agronomist, government advisor, business or finance specialist, technology development or food safety,” Professor Rose said.

“Young people have a real reason to be excited about the enormous potential and rewards of a career in agriculture. Our students have an opportunity to address some of the world’s biggest challenges and opportunities using science, technology and business skills.

“These scholarships are important for our students as they help to alleviate financial pressure and allow students to focus on their studies. We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support of our generous donors.”

Students making a  difference to the agricultural science community

Bronte Legro
Bronte Legro, second year Bachelor of Agricultural Science student

Bronte Legro is a second-year agricultural science student who has received the Neale Edwards Scholarship in Agricultural Science or Forestry which is awarded based on academic merit.

Last year, Bronte was awarded the Agriculture and Food Systems Scholarship which is offered by TIA to encourage talented students with an ATAR of 97 or greater to study agricultural science. She received the TIA Food Systems Prize for demonstrating the greatest proficiency in the first year of the Bachelor or Agricultural Science.

Bronte said that her passion for agriculture developed from an early age growing up in a rural community in Tasmania’s Midlands.

“Witnessing the diverse and dynamic nature of the agricultural sector firsthand, I was inspired to pursue a degree in Agricultural Science at the University of Tasmania where I could continue working and building my skillset and network within the sector,” she said.

“A career in agriculture excites me as the industry is always adapting and evolving, so there is always something new to learn. Working within the agricultural sector gave me insight into the diverse range of career paths and opportunities available, particularly for young individuals.

“I aspire to pursue a career in agricultural consultancy, where I can utilise my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the industry. I am motivated by the prospect of working within a range of connecting areas in agriculture, innovation, and sustainability, where I can address complex challenges and drive meaningful change.

“Receiving the Neale Edwards Scholarship has further fuelled my determination to excel in my studies and pursue my aspirations. It serves as a testament to my commitment to the agricultural sector and provides invaluable support as I work towards achieving my goals. With this scholarship, I am eager to continue learning, growing, and ultimately, making a difference in the agricultural community,” Bronte said.

The agricultural science scholarship recipients for 2024 are:

  • William Jones, David McEwan Scholarship in Agriculture (Launceston campus)
  • Bronte Legro, Neale Edwards Scholarship in Agricultural Science or Forestry (Launceston campus)
  • Christiaan Mills, John Turner Memorial Scholarship in Agricultural Science (Launceston campus)
  • Sophia Smith, Robert Menary Tasmania University Scholarship in Agricultural Science (Hobart campus)
  • Haydn Tracey-Shaw, Tasmanian Beef Industry Trust Scholarship in Agricultural Science (Hobart campus)
  • Grace Campbell, Agriculture and Food Systems Scholarship (Hobart campus)
  • Zoe Brown, Robert Gatenby Tasmania University Scholarship in Agricultural Science (Hobart campus)
  • Ava Christie, Professor George Wade Scholarship in Agricultural Science (Hobart campus)
  • Kiah Mansfield, Costa Scholarship in Agricultural Science (Hobart campus)

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TIA is a joint venture between the University of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Government.