Originally from Albury, New South Wales, Ava Christie was familiar with the world of farming, having extended family and friends in the industry. However, she didn’t uncover an interest in agricultural science until late high school, when she developed a fascination with biological processes and the desire to help create a better future.
“I found agriculture to be a clear path to contribute to complex solutions regarding food insecurity, climate change, and resource degradation.”
Drawn to two different areas within the sector, Ava was faced with a difficult decision when applying for university. But then she found a third possibility: why not both?
“I was finding it difficult to choose between studying agriculture and studying plant science,” she said. "When I discovered UTAS offered a double degree option where I could do both, I was sold.”
With a double degree, Ava was able to design a study experience that was perfectly tailored to her interests and aspirations, now studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) majoring in sustainable agriculture, and a Bachelor of Science majoring in plant science.
Although moving from the mainland to pursue her studies in Tasmania was a huge adjustment, she highlighted it was one the best decisions she could’ve made given her field of study.
“Globally, Tasmania’s soils, plants, technologies, and approaches set a critical example for prioritising a holistic approach to farming systems that will benefit communities in resiliently providing food and materials.
“I have been exposed to valuable concepts and skills, met a diverse array of people from all over the world, and had opportunities presented to me that I wouldn’t have otherwise had if I had chosen a university on the mainland.”
With hands‑on industry learning embedded throughout the degree, the practical experiences quickly became some of Ava’s favourite parts of the course. Whether out in the field or working in the lab, she has enjoyed learning directly from industry experts who are driving innovation.
Throughout her studies, Ava has been awarded several scholarships and awards, including the SunRice Jan Cathcart Memorial Scholarship, the Professor George Wade Scholarship, the Henzell Award, and the Agriculture and Food Systems Prize. In addition to reducing financial pressure and allowing her to dedicate her full focus to her studies, these scholarships also helped shape her academic experience.
“The exposure to international forestry, interstate cropping systems, research, industry applications, and the expert individuals involved in each of these spaces are what has enhanced my journey the most,” she said.
As the recipient of the Crawford Fund Henzell Award, she was also fortunate enough to travel to Vietnam for two weeks to further engage in scientific exploration.
Accompanying two industry researchers who had been active in the international forestry space, she was able to learn about the research and challenges involved in acacia cultivation in Vietnam, as well as tissue culture techniques, flow cytometry, data analysis, and nursery maintenance.
As part of her experience, she also contributed to a mobile database prototype which displays the available acacia clones for growers and nurseries across Vietnam.
“I gathered more insight, knowledge, and skills than I could have ever expected,” she said.
“Ultimately, this experience furthered my enthusiasm to learn how scientific concepts can be applied to critical global challenges and improving community livelihoods, and I will take this perspective with me in my ongoing studies and work.”
With the industry continuing to evolve, Ava sees agricultural science contributing significantly to Tasmania’s future and to global issues.
“Poised to face accelerating climate pressures and evolving international markets, the state sector relies on agricultural science to provide the tools to effectively tackle such complex issues for future generations.”
After graduating, Ava hopes to turn her passion into a career where she can work with plants and people.
“I am excited to pursue a professional career that synthesises work in the field or in the lab with getting engaged in industry and community.”
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