Australian Women in Agriculture scholarship opportunities

AWiA president Ms Sarah Parker said she the organisation was committed to supporting ag students and young people to gain personal and professional development alongside leaders in the industry.

The conference, Securing Australian Agriculture – sustaining families, farming and our future will be held in Brisbane from 22-24 September and will provide women across agriculture the opportunity to learn about sustainability across all aspects of their lives.

Ms Parker said the organisation was focused on bringing more young women into the fold for 2017 and beyond.

“These scholarships are an opportunity for students and young people in agriculture to develop their careers and meet leaders in the industry, and maybe consider a leadership opportunity for themselves,” Ms Parker said.

“The conference features breakout sessions covering providing a practical understanding of applying for scholarships, getting grants, getting on boards, farm safety, understanding contracts, supHERannuation and workplace wellness.

“The scholarships, grants and getting on boards sessions are perfect for women in the industry who don’t really know where to start in terms of their leadership journey.

“We encourage students and young people to apply for these scholarships, come along to our conference and learn more about leadership and sustainability – we are even hosting a feedback session for our International and Youth Committee during lunch to encourage members to get involved.”

The program covers many inspiring sessions and topics, including:

• Keeping you on track when you live and work ‘Off the Track’ – keynote speech by Joy McClymont of Off The Track Training

• Sustainable and Stronger You – sponsored by Rural Bank

• Sustainable Business and Land – sponsored by Sugar Research Australia

• A Sustainable and Innovative Future – sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia

• Sustainable Food Supply and Healthy Communities – keynote speech by Foodbank Highlights of the conference include:

• The opening Cocktail Party, sponsored by Ruralco, will overlook the spectacular Story Bridge and feature Share the Dignity Founder and CEO Rochelle Courtenay, who also won 2016 Cosmopolitan Humanitarian of the Year Award as well as a special appearance by Deb Frecklington MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Member for Nanango.

• The Conference Gala Dinner Cruise sponsored by Rural Bank which will be aboard the Kookaburra Queen Riverboat featuring on of Australia’s leading multi-genre authors, Fleur McDonald who has solidified her position as one of Australia’s favourite story tellers, based in rural Australia on her 8000-acre property in Western Australia.

All student scholarship winners will receive complimentary student membership for the 2017 – 18 financial year.

Students and young women are encouraged to apply for the AWiA provided scholarships, via the AWiA website: http://awia.org.au/2017-conference-scholarships.