In his 25-plus years being part of the National Association of Agricultural Educators, Phil Roberts has worn many hats, including president, vice-president and treasurer, while also being part of getting the association incorporated and modernising its constitution.
These efforts were recognised during the National Association of Agricultural Educators conference in Victor Harbor last week, when he was awarded life membership of the association.
"It was a nice surprise to be acknowledged," said the Coomandook Area School ag teacher, who had been part of the association since 1998.
He said the association was important as it was a single voice in Canberra, at universities, or for anyone needing feedback.
"Its a more holistic approach, rather than presenting what's happening in each state," he said.
"We can give the national perspective."
In his 37 years as an ag teacher at Coomandook, Mr Roberts said it was important to prepare students for the workforce, and to "just be good people", while embracing new technologies.
His immense contributions to local agriculture saw him awarded the inaugural Agricultural Teachers Association of SA Award for Excellence in 2019 and life membership of ATASA in 2021.
Mr Roberts was one of three ag educators to be given life membership during the conference, along with Graeme Harris and Mick Melino from NSW.
Alisha Fogden
Journalist at Australian Community Media newspapers since 2007.
Journalist at Australian Community Media newspapers since 2007.
