taking you places - Nuffield Australia

Science TAKING YOU PLACES

PATHWAYS FOR A DYNAMIC CAREER IN AUSTRALIA’S PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

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PICSE

inspiring the next generation of primary industries professionals

Associate Professor David Russell National Director, PICSE School of Agricultural Science, University of Tasmania

• Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry • Grains Research and Development Corporation • University of Tasmania • University of Western Australia • University of New England • University of the Sunshine Coast • University of Southern Queensland • Curtin University • Charles Sturt University • University of Adelaide • GrowSmart Training (Riverland, SA) • Horticulture Australia • Fisheries Research and Development Corporation • Cotton Research and Development Corporation • Murray–Darling Basin Authority • Dow AgroSciences • Woolworths Ltd • Meat and Livestock Australia This magazine was published with the generous support of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and AgriFood Skills Australia. The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry develops and implements policies and programs to ensure Australia’s agricultural, fisheries, food and forestry industries remain competitive, profitable and sustainable. AgriFood Skills Australia is one of 11 independent, not-forprofit Industry Skills Councils established by the Australian Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education. Led by industry and funded by Government, AgriFood develops and implements workforce development strategies and industry’s nationally endorsed qualifications to meet current and emerging needs of agrifood enterprises, employees and students throughout urban and regional Australia.

FEED THE WORLD, MAKE A DIFFERENCE AUSTRALIA IS ONE of the world’s driest continents, yet our primary industries are among the most productive – a testament to ingenuity and our capacity to adapt to change. This is the story of rural Australia – from early inventions such as the combine harvester to more recent advancements in dryland agricultural systems, primary industries have been at the frontline. However, Australia’s international leadership in farming innovation has been challenged by years of drought, reducing the appeal of careers in the primary industries. Progressive developments in agriculture and environmental science are crucial to meeting the challenges to food and fibre production posed by pressures including climate change, limited water resources and growing populations around the world – including new potential markets for Australian produce on our doorstep in Asia. As a developed nation, Australia has a strong opportunity to take advantage of these new markets and also contribute towards world food security. We are well represented in the international scientific arena, where our researchers are regarded among the world’s most productive. But an ageing agricultural and scientific workforce, intensified by a decline in agriculture teaching and falling undergraduate enrolments¹, places us in a difficult position. The Government and industry recognise that today’s young people are tomorrow’s leaders, and we are committed to addressing these trends to ensure a future supply of highly skilled researchers, scientists and professionals that can meet our obligations. This year we increased the number of student places in agriculture courses and allocated the highest rate of government funding for higher education. Our support of PICSE is indicative of the Government’s commitment to build ties between schools and industry, and to expose students directly to the primary industries. We also continue to build our research and development capability, contributing in the order of $700 million annually through Research and Development Corporations, Cooperative Research Centres, CSIRO and universities. These efforts are helping to build productive, collaborative markets and to develop industry infrastructure.

PHOTO: MELISSA BRANAGH-McCONACHY

IN 1998 I joined the School of Agricultural Science at the University of Tasmania to develop a program to improve science retention rates in the state’s north-west and encourage students to consider careers in primary industries. This program was the genesis of the Primary Industry Centre for Science Education (PICSE) – a national, integrated program that today comprises nine university-based activity centres. As the national infrastructure for a supply chain providing the next generation of skilled professionals, PICSE inspires young people to study the sciences that support sustainable food and fibre production. Our capacity to achieve future food security will be compromised without a stream of young Australians educated in the biosciences who can drive innovation and productivity growth. The Australian Government, national agribusinesses, research organisations and universities continue to invest in PICSE because of its proven ability to generate a positive and sustained attitudinal change among science students that leads them to careers in primary industries. Overseen by science education officers, the program has presented to more than 50,000 science students, coordinated camps and industry placements for almost 950 Year 11 and 12 students, and conducted professional development programs for about 1200 secondary school teachers. Several PICSE program participants, university undergraduates and young professionals who graduated from the program recently participated in a Youth Round Table in Canberra to discuss issues underlying the lack of awareness of primary industries in education and the negative perceptions that continue to undermine the sector. Many of those talented young Australians are profiled in this magazine, which was funded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and AgriFood Skills Australia to promote the range of rewarding career options in agriculture and related areas. The brainchild of PICSE’s National Strategic Development Manager Vic Dobos, this magazine redefines agricultural science as a modern, sophisticated bioscience and demonstrates the technological and commercial progression driving Australia’s primary industries. To attract the next generation of professionals, we need to continue to build networks between school students, universities and teachers through the PICSE program. With the right approach to engagement, education and recruitment, agriculture has the potential to be the next boom industry.

PICSE’s financial partners

SEE MORE Sid Sidebottom www.youtube.com/ PICSEscience

As a former secondary school teacher, I support the need to provide students with an insight into the range of vocational options in this ever-changing, dynamic sector. Some are profiled in these pages, where inspiring young Australians – many of them addressing the most fundamental challenges confronting humanity – share their stories. Modern agriculture is an industry of and for the future. For anyone motivated to serve, I can think of no better or more exciting pathway.

The Hon. Sid Sidebottom MP Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Office of the Chief Scientist 2012, Health of Australian Science, Australian Government, Canberra

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SCIENCE – TAKING YOU PLACES Pathways for a dynamic career in Australia’s primary industries Science – Taking You Places is published by the Primary Industry Centre for Science Education (PICSE) with support from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and AgriFood Skills Australia. ISSN Print: 2201-067X

ISSN Digital: 2201-1102

For further information contact: Executive Editor, Vic Dobos, PICSE, T: 0404 844 410, E: [email protected] Editorial management, design and production: Coretext, coretext.com.au, T: + 61 3 9670 1168 Our cover: Tasmanian researcher Dr Kieren Rix, photo: Chris Crerar

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SCIENCE – TAKING YOU PLACES


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MODERN AGRICULTURE

BY NUMBERS 93%

Australia’s primary industries produce almost 93 per cent of the nation’s fresh food supply (NFF 2012)

40 million

PHOTO: EVAN COLLIS

the industry that is shaping our future AUSTRALIA IS A global leader in agricultural science. Our primary industries produce almost 93 per cent of Australia’s fresh food supply¹ and feed almost 40 million people around the world². Export revenue exceeds $30 billion annually³ and the overall agribusiness value chain represents a $150 billion-plus component of the national economy4. But the sector’s substantial contribution and the sophisticated technological innovation underpinning it receive minimal external recognition – a modern day ‘blind spot’ that has kept prospective students uninformed of the industry’s broad range of dynamic and rewarding career options.

periods or excessive rainfall will alter the prevalence and impacts of pests and diseases. Compounding this, the world’s population will surpass nine billion by 20506, doubling in a very short period the global demand for food. This will exacerbate the already increasing pressure on land and water to produce not only food, but also fibre, other biomaterials and renewable fuels. These challenges will see demand for highly skilled professionals continue to grow, and unlike agriculture in the past, many of these technical positions will be based in cities.

THE TALENT HUNT IS ON

Exciting opportunities await graduates at all levels of the primary industries supply chain, from the laboratory to the farm, to engineering innovation, information technology, economics, global trade and marketing, and the full suite of biological and environmental sciences. Agriculture has become technically very complex. Many modern farmers are tertiary qualified. To survive in the 21st century, farmers must be proficient in the use of satellite-guided precision agriculture and remote sensing. They must have a sound grasp of plant and animal genetics, agronomy, biosecurity, soil biology and also be competent marketers, business managers and environmental stewards. Today more than ever, farmers must rely on science-driven innovations and work with off-farm specialists to apply these sophisticated technologies to their food and fibre production. Farming also has a widening embrace; for example, to new food industries such as aquaculture – fish farming – as a way to reduce the pressure that global food demand is placing on wild fish stocks.

Australia’s agricultural workforce is ageing and demand for innovation is stretching the capacity of the science and research community. Universities are producing about 700 agriculture graduates each year for a job market exceeding 4000 positions5. Yet food, fibre and biofuel production – industries essential to us all – are on the edge of unprecedented local and global challenges as they shoulder the burden of keeping our country, and indeed our planet, sustainable at a time of extraordinary environmental and social change. Australia’s obligation to meet climate adaptation, food security and trade commitments underlies a requirement to achieve higher productivity in the face of rapid global population growth and a shrinking natural resources base. Climate change is expected to mean more extreme temperature ranges with the potential to disrupt plant and animal breeding cycles and the productivity of food crops, while prolonged dry

IN CHALLENGES LIE OPPORTUNITIES

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PMSEIC 2010, Australia and Food Security in a Changing World, The Prime Minister’s Science, Engineering and Innovation Council, Canberra, Australia

Dependent Economy Report, 2005 and ABARES 2012, Australian Commodity Statistics 2011, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra, Australia

Ludwig, J 2012, Nationwide Consultation for Australia’s first food plan to begin, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra, Australia

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ABARES 2011, ABARES Australian Commodity Statistics 2009, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra, Australia 3

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Derived from modelling by Econtech, Australia’s Farm

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Modern developments such as these can only be advanced by a skilled, motivated and professional workforce committed to turning challenges into opportunities – a workforce committed to being the difference between a stable and an unstable world.

PUSHING THE FRONTIERS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Increasing climate variability is creating impetus in Australia for a low-emissions economy that will generate opportunities to develop bio-based products reliant on plant or animal materials for their main ingredients. These are likely to emerge through transformational research based on radical new ideas that push the frontiers of science and technology, leading to new concepts or fields of inquiry. Biotechnology and other enabling technologies are expected to create openings for secondary rural production systems in new fuels, materials and other industrial feedstocks that currently depend on fossil fuels. These scientific advances highlight some of the new vocational pathways available to young Australians, many of whom will be trained to apply their expertise across disciplines, providing even greater scope and flexibility.

SECURE THE FUTURE Australia’s primary industries must continue to innovate to create a vibrant, sustainable agricultural sector that can be a positive influence on the future. Within this challenge lie outstanding opportunities for the next generation to forge careers that are demanding, exciting, rewarding, global – and essential. O

Pratley, J 2012, “Professional Agriculture – A Case of Supply and Demand”, Australian Farm Institute Occasional Paper No. 12.01, February 2012

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Since 1960, Australian farmers have tripled their production and quadrupled the real gross value of their produce (NFF 2012)

$46b

In 2010-11 the gross value of total Australian agricultural production was $46 billion (ABS 2012)

$30b

Export revenue generated by Australia’s primary industries exceeds $30 billion annually (ABARES 2011)

$150b+

The overall agribusiness value chain contributes more than $150 billion to the national economy, underpinning 12 per cent of gross domestic product (Econtech 2005 & ABARES 2011)

$1.5b

The Government and private investors spend $1.5 billion each year on agricultural related research (Council of Rural Research and Development Corporations 2010)

United Nations, 2009, “World population to exceed 9 billion by 2050: Developing countries to add 2.3 billion inhabitants with 1.1 billion aged over 60 and 1.2 billion of working age”, UN Population Division/DESA, New York, US 6


Australia feeds almost 40 million other people around the world (DAFF 2012)

9 billion

The world’s population will surpass nine billion by 2050, driving demand for food and fibre (UN 2009)

4 billion

In just eight years’ time, four billion people across Asia – half the world’s population – will be on Australia’s northern doorstep, presenting unparalleled opportunities for Australia’s farm sector (NFF 2012)

1.6 million

The agricultural supply chain provides more than 1.6 million jobs to the Australian economy or 17 per cent of the labour force (Econtech 2005)

52 years

Australia’s agricultural and agricultural research workforces are ageing – the median age of Australian farmers is 52 years (ABS 2009)

700

Australian universities are producing about 700 agriculture graduates each year for a job market exceeding 4000 (Australian Farm Institute 2012)

61%

Australian farmers are environmental stewards, owning, managing and caring for 61 per cent of the country’s landmass (DAFF 2010)

40%

Australian primary industries are national leaders in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, achieving a 40 per cent reduction between 1990 and 2006 (Australian Government Department of Climate Change 2006)


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CAREERS IN Heading forAUSTRALIA’S this chart PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

This Conceptual Pathway Diagram depicts some of the major higher education and vocational training pathways to careers in Australia’s primary industries.

O F or a comprehensive listing compiled by the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture, visit ‘Career Harvest’ at http://www.csu.edu.au/special/acda/careers/pathways.html O F or further information about science courses consult individual university websites.

• INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY • ENGINEERING

SECONDARY SCHOOL

• COMMUNICATIONS • LAW

PICSE PROGRAM PAGE

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• COMMERCE

UNIVERSITY

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(UNDERGRADUATE)

GAP YEAR PAGE

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PRIVATE HIGHER EDUCATION

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• MARINE SCIENCE/AQUACULTURE • ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE • VETERINARY MEDICINE • SCIENCE Major studies include: • Chemistry • Biochemistry • Applied Physics • Microbiology • Agricultural Science

GOVERNMENT GRADUATE PROGRAM

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• Zoology • Plant/Animal Sciences • Marine Science • Biotechnology • Genetics • Food Science • Environmental Science

• AGRICULTURE/ AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE/ RURAL SCIENCE Major studies include: • Animal Science • Cropping & • Livestock Pasture Systems Production • Plant Pathology • Animal Health • Horticultural & Welfare Science • Soil Science • Agronomy • Crop Production • Genetics & Physiology

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• Natural Resource Management • Engineering Science • Computer Science

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INDUSTRY

(WORKFORCE) PAGE

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(TAFE/ AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE/ PRIVATE REGISTERED TRAINING ORGANISATION)

• AGRIBUSINESS Major studies include: • Financial Management • Farm & Resource Management • Economics Studies include: • Agriculture • Agricultural Production (Food & Fibre) • Farm Management • Horse Management • Horticulture • Wool Handling/ Wool Classing

• Commodity Markets • Marketing • Business Law

• Agronomy • Rural Business Management • International Business/Trade • Marketing • Conservation & Land Management

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NUFFIELD/AUSTRALIAN RURAL LEADERSHIP 26 27 FOUNDATION (ARLF) SCHOLARSHIPS

CAREERS IN: Information Technology CAREERS IN: Engineering CAREERS IN: Communications/Media

19 23

CAREERS IN: Government/Policy Development

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CAREERS IN • Farm Management • Agricultural Production (Food & Fibre) • Agronomy • Agribusiness

• Agricultural Technology & Innovation • Agribusiness • Farm Business Management • Sustainable Crop & Pasture Management

CAREERS IN: • Research • Research & Development • Academia/ Education • Consultancy • Management

20 21 24 26

• Business 22 Statistics • Rural Science • Risk Management

• Sustainability • Laboratory Technology • Engineering • Information Technology • Occupational Health & Safety

Key: Student and professional profile page reference

CAREERS IN: Environmental/Landscape Management

27 FARM BUSINESS MANAGEMENT COLLEGE

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POSTGRADUATE STUDIES Master’s Degree, Doctorate (PhD)

9 10 14 16 20 24 25

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9 12 18 21 22 26 27 9 10 14 16 20 24 25

CAREERS IN: • Farm & Enterprise Management • Agricultural Production (Food & Fibre) • Equine Management • Agronomy • Agribusiness • International Agribusiness/Trade • Agri-marketing • Conservation & Sustainable Land Management • Biotechnology • Engineering • Information Technology • Occupational Health & Safety • Supply Chain 26 Management

NUFFIELD/AUSTRALIAN RURAL LEADERSHIP 26 27 FOUNDATION (ARLF) SCHOLARSHIPS

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AGRICULTURE

Agriculture is a knowledge-intensive industry that integrates science, environmental science, economics and social studies to manage systems for sustainable food and fibre production. From broadacre cropping and livestock production to horticulture and viticulture, Australian agriculture produces 93 per cent of the country’s fresh food supply and feeds almost 40 million others, contributing to rural export revenue exceeding $30 billion each year.

From the farm to the lab ... and back

The industry’s long-term capacity to compete and succeed internationally will be determined by its ability to recognise changing consumer preferences and to adopt new technologies and practices while protecting the environment. Educated in soil science, genetics, cropping and pasture systems, livestock production, economics and agribusiness, graduates of Agricultural Science and Rural Studies are qualified to address the complex factors that shape agricultural systems. Expertise is in high demand. Career opportunities range from the laboratory to the field and include roles in farm management and research, government agencies, universities, consultancy and professional services, food industries and fertiliser companies. PHOTO: PAUL JONES

Study scholarships provide a window to primary industries LEARN MORE

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ACHIEVING GOOD MARKS during her final year of school in Tamworth, New South Wales, earned Kirsty McCormack several scholarships that are paying her way through university and kickstarting a career in agriculture. “A great teacher” in her Year 11 and 12 agriculture studies triggered an interest in primary industries, which led to participation in the 2010 PICSE program. “After doing my work placement with an agronomist, I decided to opt for a career in agriculture because I realised there were such broad opportunities,” she says. Kirsty is studying her first year of Rural Science at the University of New England (UNE) and is currently focused on a career in cotton agronomy. “But I’m not 100 per cent sure; I also love livestock and genetics,” she says. Her long-term goals include a Diploma of Education to enable her to teach agriculture “down the track”. “I’d love to be as enthusiastic as my teacher

was to inspire other kids and make them aware of careers in agriculture,” she says. Armed with a Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Horizon Scholarship; an Australian Wool Education Trust scholarship; a Royal Agricultural Society Foundation scholarship; and a UNE Country Scholarship for academic achievement, Kirsty says her fees and travel expenses are largely covered for the duration of her study. “I wouldn’t be at university without scholarships because of the cost,” she says. In addition to financial support, the scholarships also include work experience, leadership camps and assistance to attend conferences, providing exposure to various industry sectors. Kirsty advises students to keep their options open when considering a career in the primary industries. “Don’t be single-minded or you won’t see all the opportunities around you,” she says. “It’s not all about going to university; there are lots of pathways to consider.” O


LEARN MORE O U niversity of Tasmania www.futurestudents.utas.edu.au O A ustralian Innovation Research Centre www.utas.edu.au/australian-innovationresearch-centre O T asmanian Young Farmer of the Year www.ruralyouth.com.au/competitions/ tasmanian-young-farmer-of-the-yearcompetition


PHOTO: CHRIS CRERAR

O U niversity of New England www.une.edu.au/courses O R ural Industries Research and Development Corporation Horizon Scholarship www.rirdc.gov.au/ programs/national-ruralissues/the-horizonscholarship/horizon.cfm O A ustralian Wool Education Trust scholarship www.woolwise.com/ AWET_scholarships.html O R oyal Agricultural Society Foundation scholarship www.rasnsw.com. au/828.htm

IN 2008, SARAH Gatenby became only the second woman ever to win the Tasmanian Young Farmer of the Year competition, a contest of practical skills and theoretical knowledge. “The competition varies from year to year, but it often includes things such as livestock and agronomy knowledge, cropping and so forth,” Sarah says. Other areas that participants may be tested in include fencing, environmental management and first aid. These are all crucial skills Sarah is now putting to use on the farm she has established with her partner in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley, overseeing a few hundred sheep and cattle, “starting small and working [their] way up”. But during the working week, Sarah is primarily a research assistant with the Australian Innovation Research Centre at the University of Tasmania. Winning Tasmanian Young Farmer of the Year was by no means the first feather in Sarah’s cap. After participating in a PICSE camp and work placement at the end of Year 12 in 2002, Sarah tackled a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree with honours at the University of Tasmania. She followed this with a master’s degree researching the productivity and profitability drivers of the state’s beef industry, then spent two years as a policy officer with the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association. Sarah relished the variety in her studies. “By doing ag science, you get to do a mix of the pure science and practical skills but you’re not limited to one area, so the opportunities are huge and varied when you come out with what is regarded as a very employable degree,” Sarah says. And the job opportunities in agriculture continue to expand. “Things such as natural resource and environmental management, they’re becoming increasingly more important as we’re dealing with limited resources,” Sarah says. “These areas weren’t always considered an option in agriculture, so the realisation is that there’s a strong link between natural resources and agriculture. I think that’s a growing area.” O

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Through these networks, Australian agricultural scientists use their skills to enhance agricultural productivity in developing countries and contribute to global goals for sustainable food, fibre and fuel production.

TRAVEL THE WORLD

Australia makes a significant contribution to developing countries – mostly in the Asia-Pacific region – through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, Austrade, AusAID, UNESCO and the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases.

A career in Australia’s primary industries is a passport to travel the world and experience other cultures. International industry placements, exchange programs and overseas aid are just a few of the opportunities awaiting graduates in disciplines serving the primary industries. Working overseas provides global awareness and exposure to international expertise and developments that can be adapted to improve Australian practices.

Farewell Devonport, salut France ...

LEARN MORE O U niversity of Tasmania www.futurestudents. utas.edu.au O A nadiag www.anadiag.fr

Australian expertise is a world resource LEARN MORE O U niversity of New England www.une.edu.au O A ustralian Centre for International Agricultural Research www.aciar.gov.au O U niversity of Queensland www.uq.edu.au/study/ future-students.html PHOTO: PAUL JONES

DR DARRYL SAVAGE says applying his agricultural expertise to benefit developing countries is the most rewarding experience of his career. The agricultural science lecturer and researcher, based at the University of New England (UNE) in New South Wales, is investigating how beef cattle can contribute to food security in Asia as part of a project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. “We aim to alleviate poverty in Cambodia by increasing beef productivity, improving biosecurity and identifying new markets for red meat in Vietnam and southern China,” Darryl says. The project, which commenced in 2007, is driving significant change in the formerly war-ravaged nation. Along with growing demand for cattle production, the introduction of new cattle raising approaches has reduced the need for child labour in smallholder farms, increasing school attendance. “One of the Cambodian farmers’ highest priorities is education for their children, so technology adoption was a no-brainer,” Darryl says. The project team has also partnered with Cambodian universities and trains undergraduate students in research skills, which is inspiring many to undertake further studies in Australia. “The legacy of this project is much greater than the project itself; it is creating life-changing opportunities with long-term gains and sustainable outcomes,” Darryl says.

“And there are net benefits for Australia. Foot-and-mouth disease is endemic in Cambodia, so understanding how to reduce its spread is very important for us.” According to the United Nations, one billion people worldwide are malnourished, largely due to protein deficiency. “Red meat is the world’s number one source of protein and I am convinced we can improve the efficiency of how it becomes available by reducing the environmental impact of methane emission through animal selection, nutrition and better production systems, which also improves productivity,” Darryl says. “UNE is a major player in this field of research. “Australia is one of the most efficient red meat producers in the world so we have an important role to play in food security, which creates wonderful opportunities in science at both the applied and high-tech ends. And part of our responsibility is passing on knowledge overseas.” Darryl regularly discusses his work with PICSE groups visiting the UNE’s Armidale campus. He also answers questions about his own career path, which started with a degree in Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland and has included stints as a jackaroo, running research programs in the Northern Territory’s Barkly Tableland and completing doctoral studies on beef cattle nutrition and reproduction. Darryl took up his position at UNE 10 years ago. O

SEE MORE Dr Darryl Savage www.youtube.com/ PICSEscience

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O Peracto www.peracto.com.au DOMINIQUE COTTERILL HAS not yet started her Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree, but the industry has already taken her to the other side of the world, where she is working as a technical assistant in the French city of Toulouse with the agriscience company Anadiag. “I help with chemical applications and assessments on whatever trial we’re doing, mostly in vines at the moment, sunflowers, all sorts of things,” she says. “All the people working in my building are fairly young, fairly fresh out of uni.” A native of Devonport, Tasmania, Dominique is undertaking a gap year before commencing her degree at the University of Tasmania. She decided on her career path during the summer break between Year 11 and Year 12 after participating in the PICSE camp, site visits and industry placements. “It was just so much fun, working outside all the time. You’re always doing something different, always seeing a bit of nature. You spend half the day in the office, then half the day in the field and you get the best of both worlds. Now when I look at office jobs, I don’t think I could do it,” she says. After finishing school in 2011, Dominique spent the summer working at contract agricultural research consultancy Peracto. Colleagues there helped her line up her current role as a technical assistant at Anadiag. “Even before I heard about this job I thought I’d like to go and work in the south of France because I’ve travelled through a couple of times and I really like sunflowers and olive trees. I find the countryside so beautiful here.” But Dominique is also excited about returning to Australia and starting university. “I’m looking forward to all the field work. And I’m really looking forward to some of the specific subjects, like genetics and maybe microbiology.” O


PHOTO: EVAN COLLIS

OVERSEAS AID

Aid-related connections with international agencies enable Australia’s rural sector to achieve high-level goals in industry development, sustainable production and transformational research, providing a valuable pathway to knowledge, new markets and capital.

SEE MORE B rydie Creagh www.youtube.com/ PICSEscience

Study agriculture, travel the world “MY TIME IN New Zealand was the most amazing experience; it really opened my eyes to the travel prospects within the industry,” says PICSE Ambassador Brydie Creagh. The first-year University of Western Australia agricultural science student refers to her one-week industry placement at Dow AgroSciences’ world renowned Waireka Global Discovery Research Station on New Zealand’s North Island. Selected from more than 100 Australian secondary school students, Brydie worked alongside international researchers investigating the next generation of plant protection chemicals for growers of vegetables, fruit and cereal. “We spent time assessing chemical usage, mainly on barley,” she says. “It was so interesting.” Brydie says the travel scholarship helped her to finetune her specific areas of interest in agricultural science before she commenced her degree. “Agriculture’s not just about farming. You can work in science and finance, and other areas, and still be working in agriculture,” Brydie says. Through the PICSE program she also spent a week at the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia, working with staff in the livestock division. Brydie sees an expanding role for Australian agriculture in feeding the growing world population, but is not sure where the degree will take her yet. She is leaning towards research into the production of more environmentally-friendly chemicals that have less effect on the land and soil quality. “There is a lot more focus today on the environmental impacts of farming practices, and making sure that they’re sustainable,” she says. Brydie says there are many opportunities for work placements to gain experience in agriculture, and thousands of jobs in primary industries, both in Australia and overseas. “I never expected to be studying agriculture, but you have to be open to the opportunities and make the most of them,” she says. O

LEARN MORE O U niversity of Western Australia www.studyat.uwa.edu.au O D epartment of Food and Agriculture, Western Australia www.agric.wa.gov.au O D ow AgroScience www.dowagro.com/au

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AGRONOMY

Agronomy applies aspects of soil and plant sciences to broadacre crop and pasture management. It is fundamental to productive, sustainable agricultural and livestock production for the food and fibre industries.

Science on the farm, a boyhood dream

Agronomy includes crop breeding; crop and pasture establishment; plant nutrition; weed, insect and disease management; and farm design. It is also linked closely to soil chemistry, physics, biology and water use. Faced with challenges including climate change, pesticide resistance and limited water supply, together with rising fertiliser and fuel costs, farmers are more reliant on advice from agronomists than ever before. PHOTO: CHRIS CRERAR

LEARN MORE O U niversity of Tasmania www.futurestudents. utas.edu.au O S erve-ag www.serve-ag.com.au O T asmanian Alkaloids www.jnj.com

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PHOTO: PAUL JONES

Global food production has tripled over the past 50 years, largely as a result of advances in agronomy.

AGRONOMIST JOSH CABLES is living his boyhood dream and following his father’s footsteps into the Tasmanian poppy industry. After participating in the 2006 PICSE program, Josh went on to complete a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Tasmania before pursuing a career in agronomy. He worked as an agronomist with Serve-Ag, providing advice on crops ranging from vegetables and cereals to seed crops, before accepting a position with Tasmanian Alkaloids. “My father grows poppies and I have always been interested in moving into the area,” Josh says. “Tasmania provides the ideal conditions to grow poppies for the pharmaceuticals industry because of its isolation and climate. The low population helps to ensure safety, but research and development carried out by Tasmanian Alkaloids is largely responsible for breeding new ‘untouchable’ varieties to prevent misuse in the wrong hands.” Josh says the PICSE program reaffirmed what he wanted to do. “It’s hard to see what the industry is about when you’re young and PICSE opened my eyes to what was available,” he says. “I participated in a five-day PICSE camp in Western Australia which broadened my outlook beyond Tasmania.” The 24-year-old describes the steep learning curve as the most challenging aspect of his job. “You want to know everything at once – and it’s important to get a good mix of new ideas from your degree and practical experience to develop well-rounded knowledge.” He rates job variety and the “great farmers who are very supportive of the new generation” among the highlights. “I am keen to stay with poppies for the foreseeable future and to make a difference in this industry,” Josh says. “I would also like to explore opportunities to grow poppies on my own property eventually. Poppies can pay quite well if you can increase yields and produce sustainably – a tricky balance to achieve.” Josh is adamant that farmers have to add value to remain viable today. “New graduates need to realise that agribusiness and management knowledge are more important now,” he says. “The new opportunities in primary industries are endless. Every mouth needs feeding, and there will be greater reliance on industries such as fibre and pharmaceuticals with the ageing population. “Secondary students need to get out there and get exposure to different ideas.” O


A career to be proud of ELIZA STAR GREW up on a mixed-enterprise farm near the town of Carrathool, in the New South Wales Riverina. But she did not really consider the broad opportunities of agriculture until she undertook Year 10 work experience with an agronomist at the NSW Department of Primary Industries. “The main thing stopping me going into the ag industry was that I didn’t really think there were any women,” says Eliza, a first-year Bachelor of Agricultural Science student at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, NSW. “But the female agronomist I worked with was very highly regarded in the area, so I guess she was the role model who helped me get a new perspective on the industry.” Eliza enjoys the challenge of a course with strong scientific foundations and a range of subject areas. “We’re doing animal studies and plants and soils. So it shows just how broad the industry is.” For the moment, Eliza hopes to pursue agronomy after graduation. She is part of the Horizon Scholarship program, an initiative of the Rural Industries


Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) that supports the development of bright students in agriculture and related courses. Sponsored by the RIRDC rice program and the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia (RGA), Eliza receives an annual $5000 bursary and participates in development events with other young agricultural enthusiasts. At a recent Horizon Scholarship conference, the group discussed industry issues, how to strengthen their leadership and “went on the ABC’s Country Hour to build up our profile and public-speaking ability.” Eliza also attended the 2012 PICSE Youth Round Table in Canberra. When in need of advice, Eliza has a list of mentors she can call on, including two from the RGA. “They’ll email me questions about what I find interesting and keep me going, keep me on my toes so I don’t just slacken off. They act as role models. “To secondary school students that want to get into agriculture, I’d say it’s definitely not the whole akubra thing and sitting on a tractor all day. It’s an industry that you can be proud of.” O

LEARN MORE O Charles Sturt University www.csu.edu.au/courses O Horizon Scholarship program www.rirdc.gov.au/ programs/national-ruralissues/the-horizonscholarship/horizon.cfm O Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia www.rga.org.au

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It applies scientific and engineering principles to living organisms to sustainably produce higher-quality food and fibre products within a challenged natural environment. Combining knowledge and techniques from molecular genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, immunology and engineering, biotechnologists provide practical solutions to real-world problems. The Australian biotechnology sector is the largest in the world as a proportion of gross domestic product and covers agriculture, food technology, human therapeutics and industrial applications. Australian biotechnology is being used to redesign and convert grains from basic commodities into high-yielding value-added products; engineer advanced livestock breeding systems; invent healthier foods from natural ingredients; and generate biobased fuel and industrial feedstock products from plant or animal materials. Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing vocational areas with substantial longterm prospects.

A love for problem-solving LEARN MORE O U niversity of Melbourne www.futurestudents. unimelb.edu.au O A ustralian National University www.anu.edu.au O C SIRO Plant Industry Division www.csiro.au/ organisation-structure/ divisions/plant-industry O G rains Research and Development Corporation www.grdc.com.au O D epartment of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry www.daff.gov.au

DR BEN TREVASKIS sowed the seeds for a career in plant science during his teenage years. “I always wanted to do plant genetics. I was interested in plants in secondary school and became interested in genetics in Year 12 because it involved problem-solving, not just rote learning,” he says. After undertaking a Bachelor of Science and achieving first class honours at the University of Melbourne in 1993, Ben went on to complete a PhD in Plant Sciences at the Australian National University where he investigated how the functions of plant haemoglobins related to those in human blood. He made the move into crop science at a time when technological developments were enabling scientists to address key issues facing grain growers.

PHOTO: CSIRO, CARL DAVIES

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Ben now leads a team researching the genetic control of flowering in cereal crops at CSIRO’s Plant Industry Division in Canberra. “Australian crops are sown to flower at different times depending on the growing region. For example, in some regions growers sow faster flowering varieties to avoid end-of-season water limitations,” Ben says. “Optimising flowering behaviour is a key focus for cereal breeding companies and we can now use DNA diagnostic technologies to accelerate that process. “Biotechnology developments are enabling us to access genetic information more easily, with sequencing technology highlighting the differences between prospective parents to facilitate more informed breeding decisions. This makes the process of breeding improved crops a lot faster; saves generations in cross-testing, as well as labour and money; and enables us to progress the industry more rapidly than ever before.” Ben says climate challenges have motivated a strong crop research program in Australia, with investments by the Grains Research and Development Corporation, CSIRO and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry targeting key traits including drought and frost tolerance. “We are using new technologies to deliver those traits in new varieties,” he says. Ben says good cereal breeders will be highly sought after and with numerous resources being directed to the area he is confident the prospects for suitably qualified graduates will be excellent. “There is also a shift from model plants into direct crop research, signalling exciting times ahead for anyone interested in plant science and molecular biology,” he says. “Doing research that that has an impact in the field is very rewarding. “If you have good computer skills and are proficient with technology, agriculture is a real outlet for developing those skills.” O


Lachlan’s quest to make a difference “THERE ARE OPPORTUNITIES to change lives through agricultural science; agriculture will be the next boom industry – mining won’t last forever.” His confident stand on contemporary agricultural issues belies the fact that Lachlan Hunter is only in Year 12. But the boarder at the Western Australia College of Agriculture in Cunderdin already has a clear picture of his future in agriculture. He attributes this to his upbringing on a mixed-farming property at Bruce Rock, a strong grounding in theoretical and practical knowledge acquired at secondary college and his participation in the PICSE program. “The WA College of Agriculture is an independent school on a farm that enables you to select trade, farming practice or agribusiness streams, as well as core subjects including English and mathematics,” Lachlan says. “The Cunderdin campus is one of few that offers the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank program.” Lachlan has always wanted to study agriculture, but he says the PICSE program helped him to narrow his career goals to focus on plant production. “Next year I hope to study Agricultural Science at the University of WA, followed by postgraduate study to become a plant breeder,” he says. “I would like to breed new salt-tolerant cereal varieties for the WA environment, which is becoming drier, and I am keen to work for [Australian crop-breeding company] InterGrain, where I did my industry placement. “I see the practical side of things on the farm so the opportunity to see what was happening in

SEE MORE Lachlan Hunter www.youtube.com/ PICSEscience

PHOTO: EVAN COLLIS

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Biotechnology is at the forefront of the world’s most urgent and potentially most rewarding science.

the laboratory at InterGrain helped me to marry the two.” Lachlan also envisages InterGrain’s collaboration with international breeding companies Syngenta and Monsanto may present global work opportunities. As a PICSE Ambassador, he promotes primary industries in science education and is passionate about “reaching out to rural and remote kids to let them know about the opportunities offered by the PICSE program”. O

LEARN MORE O U niversity of Western Australia www.studyat.uwa.edu.au O InterGrain www.intergrain.com O The Australian Science Teachers Association http://asta.edu.au/

LIFE EXPERIENCE GOES A LONG WAY FORMER UNIVERSITY OF Western Australia ViceChancellor Emeritus Professor Alan Robson is thrilled to be one of the first mentors appointed under the PICSE program because he believes in “learning from experience” – the experience of elders. Now based in the university’s School of Earth and Environment, Alan mentors Year 12 student Lachlan Hunter and is guiding him to make the transition from agricultural secondary college to university. “Agricultural secondary schools don’t do a lot of HSC subjects and Lachlan may not have quite enough chemistry,” Alan says. “I will help him to do bridging courses to ensure he will succeed at university. He is a very


bright young man and his agricultural knowledge will put him well ahead of other students.” Alan draws on a wide network and says he can refer Lachlan to others, both in the university and other spheres of agricultural science, “to help him make informed decisions”. “Agriculture is a high-tech sunrise industry and will become even more important, in terms of food and fibre production, as the population increases and land resources diminish,” he says. “We are training nowhere near enough people to enter this area, which requires greater levels of skill, but PICSE plays an important role in promoting careers in the primary industries to encourage young people.” O

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The natural environment is an essential partner in rural production. As it also supplies essential resources such as water to the wider community, it must be managed strategically.

and is nearing the end of her PhD thesis on plant breeding. Aanandini says being involved in research provides a good mix of hands-on fieldwork and office or laboratory work. A research career has also provided her with the opportunity to travel around Australia and internationally. She has visited both India and Thailand looking at plant breeding projects. Aanandini says careers in primary industries are not as well promoted as other industries, such as mining, but she believes agriculture has a more long-term outlook than mining. Australia’s mineral resources boom will come to an end, but the need to produce food will continue, she says. “We have a lot of land in Australia and with a growing global population there is a need to produce more food, more efficiently,” Aanandini says. Her career goals are to continue in the plant breeding field, with a focus on developing new varieties that are better adapted to the challenges of a changing climate. O

PHOTO: EVAN COLLIS

O U niversity of Western Australia www.studyat.uwa.edu.au

ALTHOUGH AANANDINI GANESALINGAM studied science in Year 11, she saw herself as an ‘arts student’. She was planning a career in law or journalism – until she took part in the PICSE summer work placement program. Aanandini spent a week at the University of Western Australia (UWA) working with plant breeding researchers – helping in the laboratory and ‘tailing’ research students as part of the program. She admits the forensic science television drama CSI may have encouraged her to select science subjects in her senior years. But it was her work experience and the prospect of a career in primary industries that led her to a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree at UWA. “No-one in my family was involved in agriculture in any way and when I started at university I was the only ‘city’ person in my class. All the others were from farms or rural communities,” Aanandini says. She completed her honours year in 2009

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Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates physical and biological sciences including ecology, biology, soil science, geology and geography to find solutions for environmental problems. In addition to an understanding of conservation biology and biodiversity, environmental scientists must also have a solid grasp of the social, economic and legal aspects of environmental issues to assess environmental impact and effectively manage our natural resources. Environmental issues have been raised higher on the political and social agendas in recent years, and increased awareness has led to unprecedented employment growth across a variety of disciplines covered by environmental management.

Sustainability drives demand for environmental scientists DELIA EVANS CONCEDES she had a limited view of where science could lead her before she participated in the PICSE program as a Year 11 student in 2010. “I was contemplating a career as a doctor or a vet before I signed up, but the PICSE program opened my eyes to opportunities in the primary industries that I hadn’t even thought about,” Delia says. “In secondary school I studied chemistry and biology, and I have always been interested in science, but the PICSE program exposed me to different areas within environmental science – for example, disease control and genetic modification in farming – that influenced me to swing in that direction.” Her work investigating water quality with an environmental scientist during a one-week industry placement at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) cemented her interest. “PICSE gives students another opportunity beyond the standard Year 10 work experience to see what’s out there,” Delia says. “The program helped me to develop a clearer direction and instead of undertaking a general science degree, I enrolled in environmental science.” The first-year USC student rates coastal field trips and laboratory experiments among her favourite study activities and says the assignment workload is the greatest challenge. She is unsure which particular avenue of environmental science she will pursue after completing the three-year degree, but says working as an adviser for a marine or agricultural company is appealing. “There are significant opportunities in Queensland,” she says. “The bigger focus on sustainability in the


PHOTO: PAUL JONES

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ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

‘Ag science’ a passport to the world

Management of our natural environment is one of the greatest challenges of the future. A productive agriculture industry developed within sound environmental management systems has the potential to enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to food security.

primary industries has created a greater need for environmental science graduates.” Delia recommends the PICSE program for students who enjoy science but do not know where it can take them. “The program uncovers a lot of diverse areas,” she says. In her role as a PICSE Ambassador, Delia provides a student’s perspective at conferences and recently attended a national forum in Canberra to help create “a greater focus on rebuilding the agricultural workforce”. “The opportunities with PICSE continue long after the program,” she says. O

LEARN MORE O U niversity of the Sunshine Coast www.usc.edu.au/study/ courses-and-programs

SEE MORE Delia Evans www.youtube.com/ PICSEscience

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FISHERIES

Australia’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industry is valued at more than $2 billion annually, with production focusing on high-value export species such as lobsters, prawns, tuna, salmon and abalone.

“I KNEW I wanted to pursue a career in science, but PICSE gave me a broader view; I didn’t realise how many technical jobs were available in primary industries,” researcher Gabby Bennett says. Gabby grew up in South Australia’s Riverland surrounded by agricultural production, but she was always fascinated by marine biology. After participating in the PICSE program in 2006, she completed a three-year Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology at Flinders University, then moved south to take up a position with Petuna Seafoods in Strahan, Tasmania. Earlier this year, Gabby was appointed as a research officer with Hobart-based Australian Seafood Industries. The company

The pursuit of new ways to feed more people has given rise to marine and freshwater aquaculture. Experts in marine biology, oceanography, geosciences and environmental management, marine scientists are caretakers who manage the human impact on marine environments and protect Australia’s marine reserves. Career options are diverse and include marine environmental management, fisheries, conservation policy, tourism and recreation, marine biotechnology, biodiversity and marine ecology.

Careers in marine science ‘a great catch’ PHOTO: CHRIS CRERAR

produces selectively bred oysters, which are supplied as brood stock for Tasmanian commercial hatcheries. “The market is looking for stock growth, condition, survival, uniformity and shell shape. The latter is very important in marketing,” Gabby says. “We are trying to produce these traits through research.” Gabby relishes the variety her job provides. “We do all the stock management and handling ourselves so there are opportunities to get out on the water as well as working in the laboratory,” she says. “Discovering new things that are useful to the industry is very satisfying.” Gabby is studying honours in Marine Science part-time off campus with the University of Newcastle. “It involves some juggling, but my studies complement the research we are doing at work so I can apply the knowledge,” she says. She says the need to “maximise productivity and do things more sustainably” in response to the changing environment will see science emerge as a stronger player in primary industries. “We can’t do things the way we always have; research and development will play a bigger role,” she says. “Primary industries are becoming more technical, creating greater demand for research and agronomy jobs.” Gabby urges students to seize any opportunities to gain an insight into agricultural science. “There is so much you don’t know about or get a chance to learn about in school,” she says. “It’s a very in-depth and rewarding field.” O

Hitting the road to talk up agriculture FOR HOLLIE BAILLIEU, chair of the Young Farmers’ Council of New South Wales Farmers, the best part of agriculture is the people. “I’m a bit of a talker and the people you meet and associate with in the ag industry are the most incredible people you’ll ever meet,” says Hollie, who completed her Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree at Charles Sturt University in 2011. This year Hollie has been driving around the country with the roadshow component of the Australian Year of the Farmer, an initiative celebrating Australian agriculture. The roadshow comprises a fleet of four-wheel drives with attached trailers. Its custodians engage visitors through interactive displays and educated conversation. With the roadshow, Hollie has visited public events including agricultural shows, careers fairs, cultural and sporting events. In urban areas, the task is to spread the message about what it means to be a farmer in a competitive international market. “Our farmers are the most important people in our lives. They don’t just give us the food that we eat, but also the clothes that we wear – cotton, wool – it’s a huge and diverse industry,” Hollie

says. “People from the city come into the tent not knowing much about the industry and leave with a better understanding and appreciation. “Technology is a big part of the industry. I don’t think people are aware of the high-class technology that is being adopted by our farmers. Labour is one of the greatest on-farm costs and with the added pressure of trying to compete in global markets, our farmers have to become the most efficient they can be. Advances in technology will help to realise this objective.” This year Hollie participated in the PICSE Youth Round Table in Canberra. She is also an ambassador with AgriFood Skills Australia, an organisation for training and workforce development in the agrifood sector and regional Australia. Hollie’s passion for the industry has led her to commence a Diploma of Education at Charles Sturt University, after which she hopes to become a secondary school agriculture teacher. “The bit that I love is talking to students and perhaps inspiring them to look further than just the farm. Obviously the farm is the basis of the ag industry, but there’s so much more you can get involved in. I love that.” O

LEARN MORE O Y oung Farmers’ Council of New South Wales Farmers www.nswfarmers.org.au/ young_farmers O A ustralian Year of the Farmer www.yearofthefarmer. com.au O C harles Sturt University www.csu.edu.au/courses O A griFood Skills Australia www.agrifoodskills.net.au

SEE MORE Hollie Baillieu www.youtube.com/ PICSEscience PHOTO: PAUL JONES

LEARN MORE O F linders University www.flinders.edu.au/courses O P etuna Seafoods www.petuna.com.au O U niversity of Newcastle www.newcastle.edu.au/future-students

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Forests occupy almost 20 per cent of Australia’s landmass. Hardwood – predominantly eucalypt – and softwood plantations cover about two million hectares and produce more than 18 million cubic metres of timber each year.

FORESTRY

Forestry professionals work from boardrooms to the bush, in conservation and production. Using their knowledge of trees and forest ecosystems, they work with people, companies and governments to address environmental and economic issues; manage native forests for conservation and sustainable production; manage forested landscapes for environmental services; and develop new forest industries to address land degradation, restore landscapes and help farmers to diversify their income. Forestry research and development aims to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the Australian forest and wood products industry through innovation.

O U niversity of Tasmania www.futurestudents. utas.edu.au O s eedEnergy www.seedenergy.com O s eedPurity www.seedpurity.com

He undertook the research in conjunction with Australia-based industry partner seedEnergy and now works for the company’s co-arm seedPurity in Margate, Tasmania. “Most of my work is focused on Brassica vegetables, among others, for the horticulture industry, with an emphasis on disease, increasing seed yields, and understanding pollination to increase productivity,” Kieren says. “Some of the projects we work on will also reduce reliance on chemical sprays if we can control disease. “My career aspiration is to work at a high level in research. I would like to undertake postdoctoral research and work in forestry again, but the industry has wound down in Tasmania, which creates challenges. I may have to pursue opportunities overseas.” At present Kieren is enjoying his work in horticulture. The 28-year-old says seedPurity has solved a lot of industry issues and is making a significant difference – “strengths that inspire me to keep working for them”. He believes that consumers are demanding more sustainable products, but are also more price driven – “two things that don’t go hand in hand, which proves a challenge”. “Farming is becoming more innovative, advanced and high-tech to cope with these demands and there are huge opportunities in research,” he says. “It’s important to think outside the square. A degree in agricultural science doesn’t necessarily mean you are going to be a farmer. My advice to students is to keep options open, study a broad range of subjects and do what inspires you.” O


IF YOU CRAVE variety in your working life and enjoy meeting people, look no further than a career in agribusiness. Rural officer Helene Gunn joined Rabobank’s agribusiness team as a fresh graduate in December 2011 and spends her days working closely with farmers and others in the primary industries to meet their financial needs. On any weekday she could be in the bank’s Launceston office, assessing farm loans, deposits and equipment finances, or out on the road visiting clients. “I love talking to clients and seeing what they do,” Helene says. “I have learnt about a range of farm businesses in this role, from dairy and beef to sheep, cropping, horticulture and viticulture. Tasmania’s agriculture industry is so diverse.” A work experience stint at a bank during her final year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences with honours at the University of Tasmania confirmed her interest in agribusiness. “I grew up on a mixed farm in Westbury [northern Tasmania], which, along with the PICSE program, inspired my interest in the industry. I love science and being outdoors so agricultural science was the logical choice; it melds all of that,” Helene says. “Agribusiness offers a combination of office work and farm visits; it offers the best of both worlds.” Working for one of the world’s most recognised financial institutions – with branches in almost 50 countries – also provides a global perspective on agriculture. “Rabobank has a strong research arm so we receive regular updates on what is happening around the world and how that shapes what is happening in Australian farming,” Helene says. “We also travel for training, which provides an opportunity to meet people from other regions.” Helene says her job has heightened her understanding of “how important finance is for farms to stay viable and sustainable”. “Some of my clients are excellent farm managers with strong financial knowledge, but the risks associated with climate and fluctuations in commodity prices can prove challenging,” she says. “Farming requires knowledge and skill. A lot of younger people coming onto farms have a tertiary education, which is good for the industry. You have to be very business-minded, and savvy with technology and research, to succeed against the risks.” The 23-year-old is keen to further her career in agribusiness. “Rabobank encourages you to learn, grow and fulfil your ambitions,” she says. O


Grounded in both agricultural knowledge and applied business skills, graduates draw on knowledge in farm business administration and planning, finance, economics, marketing, supply-chain management and rural science to drive better, more profitable outcomes. Career paths include rural lending and investment, farm products merchandising, stockbroking, public accounting, small and medium-enterprise management and various roles within government.

PHOTO: CHRIS CRERAR

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“WE HAVE A growing population to feed and fewer land resources – issues that highlight the need for a skilled agricultural workforce to ensure we can do things more efficiently,” Tasmanian researcher Dr Kieren Rix says. “For graduates of courses related to the primary industries, the world is their oyster; the opportunities are incredibly broad.” For someone who didn’t know what he wanted to study at university and had never considered agriculture, Kieren has forged an impressive career path and credits the PICSE program with exposing him to new opportunities in Australia’s primary industries. “PICSE showed me how science and agriculture could link together and I was confident agricultural science would equip me to get a job that was focused, one that applied science in a real-world context,” he says. In the decade since he completed the PICSE program, Kieren has graduated with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with honours from the University of Tasmania and completed a PhD investigating establishment issues in blue gum seed germination – a project that has national and international applications.

PHOTO: CHRIS CRERAR

Sowing the seeds for a career in forestry and horticulture

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There’s plenty of variety in agribusiness

AGRIBUSINESS

The forestry sector is one of Australia’s largest resource and manufacturing industries, and one of its most diverse. Plantation and farm forestry are critical to regional economic development and provide environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration, estimated at 81 million tonnes per year.

Australia’s agribusiness value chain represents a $120 billion-plus slice of the national economy. In a world of increasing globalisation with threats to food and fibre security, graduates with high-level problemsolving and communication skills are in high demand to ensure agribusinesses remain competitive and sustainable.

LEARN MORE O Rabobank www.rabobank.com.au O University of Tasmania www.futurestudents. utas.edu.au

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AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

PHOTO: VIC DOBOS

Agricultural economics addresses some of the most challenging issues facing the modern world including carbon emissions, water resource management, food security and climate change. Experts in commodity markets, agricultural and natural resource issues, and applied international trade, among other specialties, agricultural economists are employed in the finance sector, agribusiness, marketing and commodity trading, consulting, public policy analysis, economic journalism and research.

LEARN MORE O A ustralian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences www.daff.gov.au/abares O U niversity of Sydney www.sydney.edu.au/courses O B order Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority www.brg.cma.nsw.gov.au O A BARES Science and Innovation Awards www.daff.gov.au/abares/conferences-events/ scienceawards

A major employer in Australia, the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is a research bureau within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry that provides independent research, analysis and advice on issues affecting the agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.

Agriculture brims with professional diversity

COMMUNICATIONS

HAYDN VALLE CAME away from PICSE’s National Youth Round Table in Canberra in June 2012 impressed with the enthusiasm of participants for the future of primary industries in Australia. Haydn is a recent university graduate, now working in Canberra as an analyst with the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), which is the research arm of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. He was among 26 young professionals, and tertiary and secondary students, who took

part in the Round Table. “It was fantastic – the enthusiasm of young people was amazing. Based on the passion they showed, I think the future of agriculture is in good hands,” Haydn says. Originally from Sydney, Haydn was able to combine his aptitude for economics with an interest in the environment as part of a four-year Bachelor of Resource Economics degree at the University of Sydney. He says primary industries have a need for people with a diverse range of skills and interests, not just in the

Effective communication underpins stakeholder engagement, awareness, understanding and action. In Australia’s primary industries, communication is the bridge between research and improved adoption and management decisions. Communication specialists establish mutual understanding between an organisation and its stakeholders by evaluating public attitudes, identifying an organisation’s policies and procedures with the public interest and developing tactical communications to meet the organisation’s objectives. Professionals trained in media and communications forge careers in rural journalism, media relations, public and stakeholder relations, strategic communications, and issues management. PHOTO: VIC DOBOS

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sciences or farm agronomics. “You can find a fit for your expertise. Agriculture is a dynamic industry and it is constantly changing,” he says. “Even if you study an agricultural degree, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be a farmer.” Haydn says his own experiences changed his perception of the relationship between agriculture and the environment. When he started studying at university he saw agriculture and the environment as competing interests. But after spending time

with Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority (CMA) in northern New South Wales, he saw the two sectors as fundamentally integrated and interdependent. “Working with the CMA also showed me how economics can be used to recognise and value the benefits that farms can deliver to protect the environment. “Rural communities and farmers really are the gatekeepers, or the ‘greenkeepers’, of sustainability,” Haydn says. O

Great stories there for the telling DAVID BETROS-MATTHEWS HAD his sights set on a career in sports media when he completed a Bachelor of Communication at the University of Newcastle in 2010. But after taking a gap year to work and travel, he was drawn to the Australian Government’s graduate program and moved to the nation’s capital to take up a position with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). “I was looking at graduate programs in a range of departments, but DAFF interested me the most because of the size of the portfolio and its breadth, which covers everything from biosecurity to fisheries and forestry,” David says. The 11-month program has proved a steep learning curve, incorporating a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration, three interdepartmental rotations, a stakeholder research project and leadership training. “I definitely see my future in the primary industries now,” David says. “Australia has a huge responsibility in helping to achieve global food security and working on issues that are topical and important is extremely satisfying. “Australia is an international leader in plant science and animal husbandry, and agriculture has become progressively more innovative over recent decades. But the industry wrestles


with negative perceptions that do not reflect how dynamic it is as a whole. “I think agriculture’s image needs to be framed around feeding the exploding global population and effective communication has a crucial role to play.” David recently participated in the PICSE Youth Round Table in Canberra to seek innovative ways to better communicate Australia’s agricultural success and contribution to global food security, and to discuss the shift required to change public perceptions of agriculture. He says many students in disciplines ranging from communications to commerce do not appreciate the vast opportunities available in the primary industries. “I would encourage anyone to consider a career that supports agriculture; it can be very rewarding both personally and financially,” he says. O

LEARN MORE O U niversity of Newcastle www.newcastle.edu.au/future-students O D epartment of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry graduate program www.daff.gov.au/about/jobs/graduate/gdp

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AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

To maintain industry productivity growth in the face of a changing climate, competing demands for finite resources, fluctuating markets and production constraints, Australia needs highly educated research professionals. Among other priorities, the next generation will develop technologies that contribute to healthy lifestyles and global security; reduce agriculture’s reliance on fossil energy and petrochemical inputs; produce a wider range of food, fibre, energy and bio-based products; and cut greenhouse gas emission levels.

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PHOTO: CHRIS CRERAR

D r Lydia Turner http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=wH0UPTRzwAs

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LEARN MORE O U niversity of Tasmania www.futurestudents. utas.edu.au O T asmanian Institute of Agriculture Dairy Centre www.tia.tas.edu.au/ dairy/home O D airy Australia www.dairyaustralia. com.au

PHOTO: UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Agricultural research and development is crucial to realising Australia’s vision to double rural sector output over the next 30 years while using proportionally fewer resources.

Re-evaluating career options “I HAD NO interest in agriculture when I signed up for an industry placement through the PICSE program at the end of Year 12,” Dr Lydia Turner says. “I was initially enrolled in Pharmacy, but my placement provided the opportunity to work in dairy research at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) and at the end of the two-week placement I did a complete turnaround and enrolled in Agricultural Science.” The dairy researcher has no regrets 14 years on. “The placement opened up opportunities I didn’t know were there,” Lydia says. “Students are not informed; they have a misconception about what agricultural science is, the highlevel of research underpinning it and the opportunities in the industry. “Many people have re-evaluated their career options after participating in the PICSE program.” In addition to an immediate fascination with dairy research, Lydia says agricultural science fitted her “world view of wanting to help people”. After completing her Bachelor of Agricultural Science at UTAS in Hobart, she moved into postgraduate studies, completing a PhD at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture Dairy Centre, based at the university’s Burnie campus. “For my PhD I researched dairy pasture agronomy, looking at different species options for farmers and how to manage them most effectively,” she says. Lydia’s career as a postdoctoral researcher in pastures – much of it supported by Dairy Australia – has recently taken a deviation into social science. “We expect significant growth in the Tasmanian dairy industry so we will be investigating how to both stimulate and support this expansion,” she says. Another current ‘cross-boundary’ research project, funded by the UTAS Institute for Regional Development, is based around the general skill shortage in agriculture and how to encourage more young people to enter the industry. “There is great satisfaction working in a vital industry that feeds the world,” Lydia says. Lydia says sustainability is one of the key challenges facing the primary industries, but adds this does not stop at environmental sustainability. “It’s also about people and profit and remaining viable,” she says. “Consumers have to expect to pay a fair price for fresh, quality produce. “Highlighting the high-level science required to address issues such as food security and climate change, and the multitude of career opportunities in agriculture, is essential to attracting young people into the industry.” Lydia takes this approach when she addresses students and teachers in her role as a PICSE Ambassador. O


Meaningful research ‘the bees knees’ “THE UNIVERSITY OF Western Australia (UWA) offers me the necessary equipment and expertise to identify and defeat bee parasites, which are killing honeybee colonies worldwide,” says Professor Boris Baer, director of the Centre for Integrative Bee Research (CIBER) at UWA. “But we need a new generation of researchers on both the applied and pure sides of science, which will require graduates in science and agricultural science.” Boris explains the importance of honeybee research during regular addresses to PICSE students. “There are serious implications for human food production and ecosystem stability. One third of what we eat wouldn’t exist without bees,” he says. More than 80 agricultural crops are dependent on honeybee pollination, with an annual value of about $6 billion for Australian agriculture. This country has so far been spared the major losses seen in many other regions such as the US, Europe and New Zealand, but Boris warns Australia is under threat. “Up to 90 per cent of the honeybee colonies are dying each year in many countries, predominantly as a result of spreading parasites, diseases, climatic conditions and the use of pesticides,” he says. “The way we breed and keep bees – the mass production, global transportation, concentration of bees in monocultures and increased disease exposure – is also having an impact.” Boris says reduced flowering caused by the drought has triggered a decline in Australian honeybee populations, but says an assault by the varroa mite – a mite with rapid global spread that is extremely harmful to bees – could have dire consequences. “In the US, Europe and New Zealand the mite has killed all feral bees, while


beekeepers typically lost up to 90 per cent of their stock,” he says. “Australia is the only country that remains free of the mite, but when we face this ‘super killer’ it will spread rapidly.” Life in a ‘bee-free’ world can be experienced in some regions of China, where the overuse of pesticides has killed all bees and trees are now being pollinated by hand, but human labour is not viable in western countries, Boris says. “The workers in a single bee colony can carry pollen up to 400,000 kilometres each day and to millions of individual flowers,” he says. “The potential loss of this service is scary, because in most parts of Australia there are no mass replacement pollinators available for food production.” While it could take more than a decade for the bee to develop a natural tolerance to the varroa mite, Boris says science could accelerate this process. Boris completed his undergraduate and postgraduate science studies in Switzerland, then moved to Denmark to undertake postdoctoral work before accepting a post at UWA seven years ago. He now leads a team investigating honeybee reproduction, immunity and ecology that – among other things – plans to reintroduce genetic material and tolerance mechanisms of WA feral bees to managed bee colonies. “By combining evolutionary biology with the molecular sciences, we can understand parasite recognition and breed bees that are better able to cope with the present and future challenges,” he says. The work of CIBER features in a new documentary More than Honey, which will be released in Australia in 2013. O

LEARN MORE O C entre for Integrative Bee Research www.ciber.science.uwa. edu.au O M ore than Honey www.ciber.science.uwa. edu.au/blog

SEE MORE Professor Boris Baer www.ciber.science.uwa. edu.au/blog/?page_ id=121

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The scholarship promotes excellence in all aspects of agricultural production, distribution and management and aims to develop a network of globally aware farmers who can articulate and satisfy the needs of the agricultural industry and the community. Nuffield Scholars return from overseas fact-finding missions better equipped to manage their operations for future growth. They become part of a global network that exposes them to international developments and opportunities. The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s mission is to create compassionate leaders who can think strategically, negotiate skilfully and influence communities, industries and policy makers. Its 59-day leadership initiative, the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP), is conducted part-time over 17 months and has turned out more than 500 graduates from sectors ranging from grains production and agribusiness to rural health and tourism. ARLP graduates are spread throughout all levels of government and industry at regional, state, national and international levels.

A world of opportunity

O Longreach Pastoral Campus www. agriculturalcollege. qld.edu.au/campus/ longreach/index.htm O University of New England distance education www.une.edu.au/ about/off-campus-ed O N uffield Australia Farming Scholarship www.nuffield.com.au

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conduct better performance recording to inform targeted culling and improve lambing rates. “Agriculture continues to become more research and science-based, and farmers rely more on others for information to make decisions with greater accuracy. “If students understand how food and fibre are produced, they will realise there are many career opportunities all along the supply chain from science and research to information technology, communications systems, agribusiness, value-adding and marketing,” she says. “It is important to keep an open mind.” O PHOTO: PAUL JONES

PHOTO: PAUL JONES

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JULIE BRIEN’S HUNGER for knowledge has shaped a career pathway that has opened her eyes to agricultural practices across the globe. After secondary school, Julie worked at renowned sheep station “Poll Boonoke” – the birthplace of the Peppin Merino – before undertaking a Diploma of Applied Science at Longreach Pastoral Campus. She went on to work as a jillaroo in the Riverina, then returned to the family’s sheep and cropping property at Greenethorpe in the central-west region of New South Wales. While she was working, Julie commenced an 18-month certificate in Feedlot Management and Animal Nutrition, which was accredited towards a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of New England (UNE). She completed the degree via distance education over six years. “I started the certificate because I wanted to know more about feedlot management and it exposed me to a wealth of evidence-based information and put me in contact with other producers,” she says. The 34-year-old’s network extended further after she successfully applied for a Nuffield Australia Farming Scholarship sponsored by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA). “Nuffield is a wonderful opportunity to get a global perspective of agriculture and to advance your understanding of what we do here, and how that plays out on the international stage,” Julie says. Through the scholarship, Julie participated in the 2012 PICSE Youth Round Table and has forged a strong connection with MLA. “I was involved in MLA pasture research and the EverGraze project, which put me in touch with the latest research and development,” Julie says. “As a result I adopted electronic identification technology, which enables me to

Education doesn’t stop at university “EDUCATION DOESN’T STOP at university,” according to South Australian grain grower Robin Schaefer. The fifth-generation farmer and dux of his Diploma of Farm Management class at the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy Campus where he studied several years ago, received a Nuffield Australia Farming Scholarship that is providing a unique mid-career opportunity to further his education. “Nuffield exposes you to international agricultural systems,” he says. “It opens your mind to where agriculture is at around the world and provides an opportunity to take advantage of an amazing network of scholars, experience and knowledge.” The 2012 scholar is studying farm business management systems and medium to long-term weather forecasting overseas, with a focus on decision-making tools. Sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation, he recently visited the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in England – the world’s premier forecasting site. “A lot of Australian systems are based on ECMWF’s data and the visit gave me an appreciation for how much weather forecasting has improved,” he says. “Seven-day forecasts are just as reliable as what one or two-day forecasts were 10 years

PHOTO: TOM ROSCHI

AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP

Nuffield Australia is a non-profit organisation that coordinates the Nuffield Australia Farming Scholarship, which provides outstanding Australian producers with the opportunity to explore farming practices overseas.

ago, and long-term [seasonal] forecasting has also improved.” As managing director of Bulla Burra Operations, an 8000-hectare collaborative farming venture in Loxton, SA, Robin relies on this information to guide the operation’s low-rainfall dryland cropping program, which comprises wheat, canola, barley and mustard, as well as lupins and lentils. “Having good systems in place can streamline the practical and business management of a farm,” he says. “Probability is never 100 per cent – there is an element of chance so it’s about using the information to make adjustments and manage risks.” Robin’s Nuffield study tour includes visits to Argentina, the US, Canada and Europe, before he returns to England to explore other agricultural developments. Bulla Burra Operations is a keen supporter of the PICSE program and regularly hosts student and teacher visits to demonstrate innovations in agriculture. “We use cutting-edge technology here and it blows their minds,” Robin says. O

LEARN MORE O University of Adelaide Roseworthy Campus www.adelaide.edu.au/ campuses/roseworthy O Nuffield Australia Farming Scholarships www.nuffield.com.au O Grains Research and Development Corporation www.grdc.com.au O Australian Rural Leadership Foundation www.rural-leaders. com.au

Careers in agriculture ‘a real eye-opener’

LEARN MORE O L andmark www.landmark.com.au O A ustralian Cotton Research Institute, Narrabri www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ research/centres/narrabri O U niversity of New England www.une.edu.au/courses O D ow AgroSciences www.dowagro.com/au


ALANA JOHNSON SET her course for a career in agriculture while she was still in Year 10 at Calrossy Anglican School in Tamworth, New South Wales. This year she is completing Year 12 and intends to begin a Bachelor of Agricultural Science in 2013. Alana first considered agronomy because of the job opportunities and was encouraged by her family and teachers. She organised two weeks of work experience with Landmark and fell in love with cropping and crop science. She has not changed her career focus since, although she now realises that careers in agriculture are far broader than she first realised. In 2010 and again in 2012 Alana attended the National Cotton Conference as part of her school agriculture class. She also did another stint of work experience with Cotton Growers Services, Gunnedah, NSW. “It was a real eyeopener to see how much is involved in managing cotton after picking to meet the company’s requirements – how careful you have to be with genetically modified organisms (GMOs),” she says. Her agriculture teacher also encouraged her to apply


for the PICSE work placement scholarship and she spent a week with the Australian Cotton Research Institute in Narrabri, NSW. She helped researchers collect field data, did laboratory work and data entry, and learned about the various PhD research projects. This year Alana attended the PICSE National Youth Round Table as the University of New England’s representative, and has been awarded a Dow AgroSciences Travelling Scholarship Award for a work placement in New Zealand at the Waireka Field Station. “At the Round Table we put forward our ideas to the industry leaders, and I think they heard some views that they hadn’t considered before,” she says. “Our motto from the Round Table was that ‘every farmer is a hero’. They’re feeding Australia, they play a massive role in keeping the country running. But agriculture is not just sitting on a tractor. “It’s a very diverse field and you can switch between different sectors if you have the basic scientific grounding. There are amazing job opportunities in everything from scientific research, to finance and agribusiness.” O

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AGRICULTURE MUST INSPIRE OUR TEACHERS A LONG-TERM APPROACH to school education and career attraction is necessary to reverse the declining skills base in Australia’s primary industries and its potential impact on our food security and innovation. Australia’s capacity to feed 70 million people here and abroad is dependent on improving knowledge and understanding of food and fibre production among school-age children. We must focus on a greater exposure to the primary industries at all levels of schooling: primary, secondary and tertiary. The Health of Australian Science report by the Chief Scientist of Australia, Professor Ian Chubb, confirmed that senior school participation in science had declined, and cited agriculture, chemistry, mathematics and physics among the undergraduate disciplines with dwindling numbers.1 Professor Chubb’s report recommended encouraging greater student involvement in science to improve uptake at school and identified teachers as an important source of inspiration. Agriculture is not widely seen as the modern, cutting-edge industry that it is, and teachers who quote increasing numbers of examples from agriculture and the biosciences are key to changing this attitude. To this end, industry outreach is important and the PICSE program – which provides resources for both secondary school students and teachers – is a valuable way to take information about the primary industries into the classroom. We also need to explore other ways to support the school curriculum and to embed agricultural sciences in a school’s program, because agriculture should not be 1

Office of the Chief Scientist 2012, Health of Australian Science, Australian Government, Canberra

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treated as a shut-away component of society. It has made a significant contribution to the economic, social and cultural fabric of our lives since the moment we became hunter-gatherers. Responding to evolving human preferences and needs, supporting population health and addressing global challenges will require sustainable agricultural and fisheries practices. These practices will extend beyond the conversion of solar energy into food, fibre and fuel to include other renewable energy sources such as wind, hydro and geothermal sources; and consideration of ethical and social issues, including food miles and genetic modification. These developments will present a range of career opportunities for the next generation, many of them beyond the farm-gate, in exciting new fields such as biotechnology and nanotechnology, as well as in support services including agricultural economics, marketing and communications. PICSE is a wonderful portal to the diversity of rewarding career options in the primary industries – careers that will enable young Australians to flourish as they tackle the most important issues facing mankind.

Professor Lyn Beazley AO FSTE (Chief Scientist of Western Australia) Chair, PICSE O T he Chief Scientist of Australia’s Health of Australian Science report can be downloaded at www.chiefscientist.gov.au/2012/05/health-of-australianscience-report-2 O Australian Science Teachers Assocation http://asta.edu.au