Careers in Agriculture - Sydney Royal Easter Show · Chef, Farm Manager, Wool Classer, ET Technician, Agronomy, Marketing, Shearing, Animal Husbandry, Butcher Involved though in a

Careers in Agriculture

Contents

AAA - Australian Alpacas 4Agribusiness - Farm Finance 5Agricultural Engineer 6Agricultural Teacher 7Agricultural Technology Officer 8Agriculturalist 9Agronomist 10Animal Health Officers 11Apiarist 12Careers in Horse Racing 13Careers in the Pork Industry 14Careers in the Poultry Industry 15Careers in the Wool Industry 16Cattle Pregnancy Tester 17Dairy Manager 18Dairy Scientist 19Drone Technician 20Elders Agribusiness 21Farrier 22Fisheries Officer 23Food Consultant 24Food Journalist 25Helicopter Pilot - Mustering 26Horse Husbandry and Education 27International Agriculture 28Jackaroo/Jillaroo 30Livestock Feed Formulator 31

Livestock Nutritionist 32Livestock Scientist 33Meat Scientist 34On Farm Technology 35Performance Horse Groom 36Pig Research Scientist 37Poultry Production Manager 38Performance Horse Veterinarian 39Research Agronomist 40Rural Advocate 41Rural Machinery Maintainance 42Sheep Breeder 43Sheep Consultant/Sales 44Sheep Shearer 45Traineeships in Agriculture 46Veterinarian 47Veterinarian 48Veterinary Nurse 49Wool Classer 50Working Dog Trainer 51Working on Water 52Working in Media 53Working with Dairy 54

Presenter Careers

3

“Alpacas are a SMART Future for Agriculture in Australia with limitless opportunities.”

Karen WillaimsStorybook Alpacas

Name: Karen Williams Organisation: Storybook AlpacasJob Description: Alpaca Breeders, Farm Managers, Company Director of Family Business – Storybook Alpacas in the NSW Southern Highlands

Presenter’s qualifications

Academic Qualifications in Marketing, Administration and Business Management matched with real life experiences.

Alternative pathways to this career

Limitless! Management, Vet Nurse, Nursing. Can operate alongside your other careers in early stages with long term goals.Personal requirements

Hard working, resilience and common sense as well as an appreciation for agriculture and love of alpacas helps!

Long term goals, patience and planning.

Working conditions

Long Hours, long term rewards and you can operate whilst having another career/life.

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What do you enjoy about your job?

Family, rewards, and the Alpaca – but seriously being part of an innovative passionate industry. Alpaca Fleece is second none in term softness, and in terms of commerciality a wondrous adaptive useful product. The Alpacas is potentially the most productive natural fibre harvest in the world.

Who can you work for?

Not applicable as we work for ourselves in the family business, but working with Alpacas is a growing industry with many large breeders in Australia. Opportunities to be part of the growth!

Where can you work?

Alpacas are bred all over Australia and there are opportunities to work on small and large Alpaca farms. Australia boosts some of the largest herds outside Peru of Alpacas.

Potential career opportunities

Animal Science, Vet Science, Chef, Farm Manager, Wool Classer, ET Technician, Agronomy, Marketing, Shearing, Animal Husbandry, Butcher

Involved though in a family business– bound only by time and imagination!

Advice for students interested in your line of work

Prepare for the long haul, get involved as soon as you can and learn and participate. Farming is not an overnight career.

Suggested school subjects to study

English, Economics, Science (Biology).

AAA - Australian Alpacas

4

“Bite off more than you can chew and then chew hard.” - Kurt Fernley

David HaydonRabobank, Sydney

Name: David Haydon Organisation: RabobankJob Description: Branch manager of the Sydney office at Rabobank looking after farming clients located across Australia.


David grew up on a family beef enterprise, completed a Bachelor of Art/Commerce and an MBA. Before starting at Rabobank, David worked 2 years for Ernst and Young.

Personal requirements

You should be self motivated individual who is good at problem solving and someone who is prepared to work as a member in a team.

Working conditions

There is a combination of office work and fieldwork visiting farms so some flexibility is necessary.


I love getting to work with farmers on a daily basis as well as the variety of clients from across the country. I also love the opportunity to problem solve and think on my feet.


Accounting and finance firms, agricultural companies in the areas of finance, consultancy and funds management.

Where can you work?

Anywhere in the world


There is the opportunity to progress internally within Rabobank, as well as, the oppoortunity to expand across the supply chain.

Advice for students interested in your type of work

Find yourself a great mentor and always say ‘Yes’ to opportunities!

Suggested school subjects

Business studies and an interaction in team sports.

Agribusiness - Farm Finance

5

“The best part of my job is getting to build robots every day.”

Robert FitchUniversity of Technology, Sydney

Name: Robert Fitch Organisation: University of Technology, SydneyJob Description: Dr Robert Fitch is a leading research scientist in the area of autonomous field robotics. He is interested in systems of outdoor robots and their application to key problems in agriculture and environmental monitoring.


PhD in computer science from Dartmouth (USA) and is currently a working at University of Technology Sydney.


Tertiary study is the way into a career in robotics, however a number of pathways can be taken. A student can start with a degree of pure maths or science and branch into the specialty field. Alternatively they could pair a degree in Agricultural Engineering with a technical degree in mechatronics or computer science.


A love for science and mechatronics is essential, as is attention to detail. You also need to be able to persevere through long periods of research and development and be patient.

Working conditions

A combination of office work and fieldwork in paddocks testing prototypes and studying outputs.


Getting to build robots.


Universities in a research & teaching capacity, government, agricultural industries.

Where can you work?

Anywhere in the world.


Broad variety of applications of robotic technology making for both ground and aerial robots in a variety of government and industry sponsored projects including those in broad-acre agriculture, horticulture, bird tracking, and commercial aviation.


Pursue tertiary education in a STEM field - Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics. A combination of majors or undertaking a double degree from two of these fields would be very beneficial.


Maths and a combination of sciences.

Agricultural Engineer

6

“If I had my time over again, I’d be an Ag Teacher.”David RandallNSW Department of Education

Name: David Randall Organisation: Primary Industries Education Foundation AustraliaJob Description: Teaching agriculture to secondary students. This can be delivered to Stage 4, 5 or 6.


Bachelor of Science and Diploma in education. David has 32 years industry experience.


There may be other pathways through university but university training is necessary.


Need to be patient, independent and have a strong work ethic. You must have a desire to help students with more than just learning.

Working conditions

Good start up pay, family friendly occupation, can be a big committment of hours outside of the classroom but there is a great network of Agriculture teachers across the state that are there for support and always willing to help.


Seeing students engage with ideas. It is also a good balance of theory and practical work. I also love the variety of people I interact with.


High schools as a teacher or industry bodies as an education officer.

Where can you work?

Anywhere in the world!


Potential for promotion to executive roles. Opportunities for travel.


Being a teacher is more than meets the eye. Students should realise that there is great demand on your time and a strong social input is needed to be successful.


Agriculture, sciences and math

Agricultural Teacher

7

“Young people with the skills to take advantage of new innovations, will do well.”

Matt NotleyTocal Agricultural College, NSW DPI

Name: Matt Notley Organisation: Tocal Agricultural College, NSW Department of Primary IndustriesJob Description: Precision farmer using digital technology. Large amounts of information can now be collected from soils and crop scanners, individual animal ID sensors, drone reconnaissance or satellite mapping and used by computer programs and apps to give specific treatments.


Certificate III in AgricultureCertificate IV in AgricultureDiploma and Advanced Diploma in AgricultureCertificate IV in Training and AssessmentBachelor of Agrifood SystemsAlternative pathways to this career

Industry experience. Tocal, TAFE or University Training.


Good at planning.Able to analyse & solve problems.Good organisational & supervisory skills.Good communication skills.Responsible approach & attitude.Able to work in a team, mechanical aptitude.Comfortable with computers and technology.Able to work independently.Produces high quality work and has attention for detail.

Working conditions

Operating technology using screens, keypads, apps and computersPeriods of concentration requiring precise and accurate work Working to deadlines, sometimes outside of usual work hoursReading or writingDrivingWhat do you enjoy about your job?

Precision farming is an exciting, new field of agriculture. New technologies are allowing more efficient, accurate and safe practices. By introducing these onto farms there can be huge savings in time and inputs and therefore money.


A variety of farming industries but most commonly the Livestock or Cropping Industries.

Where can you work?

Virtually work anywhere in Australia or overseas, but mostly in rural or regional Australia.


Farm workers who are familiar with precision or digital farming technologies have an advantage over those that do not. Most farm jobs in the future will include some interaction with precision farming.


There is a huge variety of agricultural jobs. Although some have very specific skill and knowledge requirements you can get a start in most of them with some basic training.


A reasonable level of reading and writing and basic mathematics is important.

Agricultural Technology Officer

8

“It is an exciting time with many new innovations being adopted.”Ian NunanTocal Agricultural College, NSW Department of Primary Industries.

Name: Ian Nunan Organisation: Tocal Agricultural College, NSW Department of Primary Industries.Job Description: Graduates from Tocal enter a wide variety of jobs including Farm Workers and Managers, Farming Consultants and Agricultural Professionals. Since graduating from Tocal, Ian has worked as a fencing contractor, Jackaroo, Dairy Manager and Vocational Trainer.


Tocal Advanced Certificate in Agriculture; Diploma in Agriculture; Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.


Industry experience. TAFE or University Training.


Good planning, organisational & supervisory skills. Able to communicate well & work in both teams & independently. Able to analyse & problem solve and take a responsible approach to work.Aptitude for mechanical & computer based work. Enjoy working outdoors in all weather Able to handle animals with confidence & patience

Working conditions

The working conditions vary depending upon the type of

farm and the role on it. For example, many machinery jobs are now carried out within climate controlled cabins; a dairy milker or calf rearer may seldom leave a building or shed and while most farm jobs involve relatively early starts some now have flexible shifts.


I feel very privileged to not only have been able to work on a variety of farms and in a variety of industries but to also now be able to train young people for potential careers in them.


A variety of farming industries, but most commonly the Livestock or Cropping Industries. Inaddition to working for individual or family farms you might also work for larger Agricultural Companies or Government Departments and Agencies.

Where can you work?

Virtually anywhere in Australia or overseas, but mostly in Rural or Regional Australia i.e. country towns or near regional cities.


Farm workers might start as farm hands or assistants and then become overseers or eventually farm managers. Some then choose to lease, share farm or buy a farm or venture into rural contracting, rural retail, agribusiness and farm consultancy.


There is a huge variety of agricultural jobs. Although some have very specific skill and knowledge requirements you can get a start in most of them with some basic training.


Rural Studies (E.g. Agriculture or Primary industries)BiologyChemistryPhysical Education

Agriculturalist

9

“Agronomy is at times a demanding job that offers great rewards.”

Name: Rob Arvier Organisation: Leseffre GroupJob Description: Agronomist - plant and soil doctor


Bachelor of Agriculture, University of Tasmania


Get a start by working in the industry to get professional experience.


Humble, eager to learn, dynamic.

Working conditions

50/50 office and outdoors, 7:30 - 5:30. Generally Monday to Friday. Work or travel more when required.


It’s an amazing feeling to grow something and then enjoy eating it. It is a job that is also outdoors and is always changing.


Private, corporate or government. Start your own business, work for an established business, agricultural suppliers, Banking Sector, Retail, Food Safety Audit Company, DPI, FSANZ, DAFF, AQIS.

Where can you work?

Anywhere you like. In Australia or overseas, city or in a regional area.


Manage your own business, senior management roles in large agribusiness companies or government position. Consultant.


Build connections and industry relationships, e.g. through University staff. Before you finish University start looking at businesses you would like to work in for work experience.


Biology, Geography, Chemistry, Business Studies.

Agronomist

10

“It’s really good to be able to make a difference in pest management by conserving agriculture biodiversity.”

Mark LuffLocal Land services DPI

Name: Mark Luff Organisation: Local Land ServicesJob Description: Help explain to land holders how to effectively eradicate pests on farm including pigs, goats, foxes, rabbits, mice and insects using traps and other methods.


On the job training with the NSW DPI for over 30 years.


Students can complete a degree in Environmental Science, Farm Management or Land Conservation.


Good interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to bring stakeholders together to work collaboratively.Have great customer rapport.

Working conditions

50% of this job is working indoors working on projects, papers and reports and 50% is on the road working with farmers and land holders.You have to work in all weather conditions, regardless of whether it is extremely hot, dusty, cold or drizzle.


I really enjoy meeting the great variety of people I get to come into contact with every day. Helping to develop community solutions to problems and being able to make a difference.


You can work for Government agencies including National Parks, State Recreation Areas and State Water.

Where can you work?

You can work anywhere... from the Greater Sydney Metropolitan area all the way to the remote wilderness areas of pastoral, coastal and alpine regions.


With some of this skill set you can often move into agricultural consultancy, project management roles, community engagement programs or helping to develop government policy.


Study and study hard. Get as many credentials as you can and always look for opportunities to gain practical experience in related work experience or volunteer programs like Landcare.


Science and Agriculture.

Animal Health Officers

11

“You never stop learning.”

Bruce WhiteBeekeepers Association

Name: Bruce White Organisation: Beekeepers AssociationJob Description: I am a beekeeper.


Hawkesbury Diploma of Agriculture and a Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment


Agriculture degree Certifcate III in beekeeping


Strong, healthy, self-motivated. You need to be observant and prepared to work long hours.

Working conditions

Work is often outside or in sheds assembling equipment and extracting honey.


Working outdoors, how every season is different and I get to be my own boss.


Commercial beekeepers

Where can you work?

Anywhere!


Employment by a commercial beekeeper or even by the government. There is also the opportunity to be your own boss!Advice for students interested in your type of work

Beekeeping can be very rewarding, however, like the seasons vary so does income. The hours are long and this can be taxing.


Agriculture, Woodwork, Rural Studies. Business Management

Apiarist

12

“Winners are not people who never lose but people who never quit.”.

Karlie TriffitTAFE NSW

Name: Karlie Triffet Organisation: TAFE NSWJob Description: Head Teacher at The Australian Racing and Equine Academy (AREA). Provide training both on the job across NSW and College based delivery at Richmond Campus. Covering careers in both the Racing and Performance Horse Industries.


I have acquired a Diploma of Education and numerous years of experience in the equine, particularly racing industry.


AREA offer introductory courses to develop basic horse handling skills right through to management skills to operate your own racing or performance stable. Many qualifications are linked to licencing in NSW in the racing industry that TAFE offers all across NSW and ACT.


If you are interested in getting into the racing industry, be prepared to get up early. You also need a good work ethic and be fit and healthy as the work can become physically demanding at times. If you enjoy horses, have a passion for sports and the outdoors and maybe a bit of adrenalin then this is the industry for you.

Working conditions

There are early starts in the racing industry. You will be working outside most of the time with animals, around animals and talking about animals so you need to have a passion for them.


I enjoy education in the horse industry and playing a part in career pathways & developing the skills of young people. I also love heading to the track in the early hours of the morning to watch the horses and riders complete their morning work and assist industry participants in improving their skills.


Leading racehorse trainers and International racing stables in the Metropolitan area and across country NSW, Australia and the world.

Where can you work?

The racing industry is a worldwide business with travel opportunities for all roles from stable hand to trainers. There are a number of opportunities in Dubai, England and Hong Kong.


The pathways in the racing industry are open to anyone with any level of experience. You can start with little to no experience and build your skills to move up in a business.


Gain horse handling and or riding skills where possible through T-Vet courses. Get as much exposure and experience as you can before you make a decision that this is the type of career for you.


Sciences and PDHPE.

Careers in Horse Racing

13

“It always seems impossible until it is done”

Lechelle van BredaAustralian Pork Limited

Name: Lechelle van Breda Organisation: Australian Pork LimitedJob Description: Technology Transfer and Adoption Coordinator | Research and Innovation


Double degree Honours PhD


TAFE Industry experience University


Determination Willingness to learn

Working conditions

Travel often Meet lots of new people


People Travel Every day is different


Government agenciesIndustry departments

Where can you work?

Government agencies Industry departments Australia or overseas


Endless opportunities in many different sectors


Positive attitude Work experience


Biology Chemistry English Maths

Careers in the Pork Industry

14

“Enjoy the ride – there going to be ups and downs.”

Jorge RuizBaiada Poultry

Name: Jorge Ruiz Organisation: Baiada PoultryJob Description: National Livestock Operations Manager - Responsible for the performance and profitability of the livestock division.


PhD Science


Animal Science Management


Good communication skills, problem solving, people management

Working conditions

Work is a good balance between office and out on site.


The challenges and the people and the chooks!


Research and Development corporatives.Goverment organisations such as the Department of Primary Industries.Private Consulting.

Where can you work?

Private and Government – technical or management


Senior roles in managerial positions, senior role in research positions


Stress is part of life and helps to deal with challenges in your professional and personal pathway

Enjoy the ride !


Mathematics, Economoics and Science.

Careers in the Poultry Industry

15

“I’m lucky to be working in the Australian agricultural industry day to day.”

Emily KingAustralian Wool Innovation

Name: Emily King Organisation: Australian Wool InnovationJob Description: I work with Australian Wool Innovation to deliver outcomes from research and development that aim to improve Australian wool growers’ profitability.


Bachelor of Farm Management and short courses on wool and sheep handling.


Agricultural Science or Rural Management. You could take more of an education focus by studying education and specialising in Agriculture at university. Another option is a Communications degree.


Outgoing personality.Attention to detail.Strong organisational skills.

Working conditions

My time is split between the office and being either on farm working with growers or going to conferences, field days and information seminars where growers are in attendance.


The people. Being a national role, I am meeting people I wouldn’t have otherwise met and travelling to interesting places all over Australia.


Research and development corporations, private consulting, Government organisations such as the Department of Agriculture.

Where can you work?

You could be based anywhere in Australia, depending on the company you are working for and how far your region spreads. There is the ability to work outside of Australia for other international companies that have a strong wool industry such as New Zealand, South Africa, and Uruguay. There are more options as well if you want to work across the sheep industry in general (meat and wool).


Once you have built your skills, you could be a freelance consultant doing a range of work in both the public and private sector. My position would also give you strong skills for jobs in other agricultural commodities such as grain, cotton, or beef.


Seek the opportunity to do work placement and hands on trials in roles you think you want. Pick subjects you are passionate about as you will do better and get more enjoyment out of it too. Also make the most of the networks and networking functions that are available to you and take opportunity to meet as many people in industry as it is relatively small.


Pick subjects you’re passionate about; you’ll do better and enjoy it more. I suggest Business Studies, Agriculture, Primary Industries, Marketing, Maths and Science.

Careers in the Wool Industry

16

Cattle Pregnancy Tester

“If you can’t afford a bull - get ‘no bull’.”

Stephen BrownNo Bull Articial Breeding and Training

Name: Stephen Brown Organisation: No Bull Ariticial Breeding and TrainingJob Description: Artificial Insemination Technician, Pregnancy Testing, Embryo Implanting, Semen and Equipment Sales, Dehorning, Castrating and Freeze Branding. General Cattle Husbandry. Artificial Insemination Training.


Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. National Herd Improvement Association of Australia Accredited Trainer.


Vet Science degree is the best way. However, given the diverse opportunities I recommend practical experience through farms and training through educational centres to help guide which area you would like to get involved in.


Enjoy problem solving (diagnosis) and enjoy teaching, educating and helping people with their achievements.

Working conditions

Preparedness to work in all weather conditions. Constant vigilance of properly maintained cattle yards and farm equipment.


Interacting with herd owners. Assisting with herd improvement and husbandry.Providing advice through experience to customers.


Independently or as property herd manager.

Where can you work?

At independent small to medium farms. At large scale dairy and beef enterprises.


• Beef &/or dairy cattle studs• Horse studs• Reproduction, artificial

breeding technician.


Really varied options – look at what you are interested in. Try short courses at TAFE or practical work experience to get a taste for what is involved before committing to a university degree or other courses


Agriculture, Primary Industries and General Mathematics.

17

“Dairying is a way of life that I wouldn’t trade for any other.”

Pat BuckleyKillarney Grove dairy

Name: Pat Buckley Organisation: Killarney Grove DairyJob Description: Self-employed and owner of a 150 head dairy looking to expand to a 200 head dairy in the next twelve months. We runs a mixture of Jerseys and Holsteins.


Certificate III and Certificate IV in a Dairy Traineeship obtained at Tocal.


You can gain industry experience by simply being employed as a farm hand or milker or attending university to complete an Animal Science or Agriculture degree.


You need to be willing to work long hours. You need to be a calm person who works well with animals. It is highly desirable if you can take the initiative on completing work tasks as you have to work on your own a lot of the time. Problem solving is a skill you need to possess or be willing to develop.

Working conditions

You have early mornings and late evening finishes. You have to work 7 days a week/365 days per year, rain, hail or shine


Love watching a calf being born, that you then get to raise to maturity, who then enters the herd and becomes a great milk producer.


You can work for yourself, other family farms, government farms or private sector farms.

Where can you work?

You work outdoors 90% of the time with milking in the Dairy and paperwork in the office making up the remainder of your day.


You can often get employment in the genetics industry, become a field officer, service provider like a seed/fertiliser sales rep or a number of other pathways within the Dairy industry.


Get onto Dairy Australia and they can help connect you with dairy farmers who like to help people get work experience.


Agriculture, Primary Industries and General Mathematics.

Dairy Manager

18

“Get lots of experience working for a variety of people. There is always something you can learn.”

Luke MicallefA Smart Farmer

Name: Luke Micallef Organisation: A Smart Farmer Job Description: I get to monitor the reproductive and production health of dairy cattle. This is an exciting area where I see how the combination of genetics and environment both play a part in the overall production of dairy cattle.


BA. Agricultural Science (Hons), over 10 years dairy farming experience, Artificial Insemination, and embryo transfer experience.


On farm experience, Diploma of Agriculture or University.


I have had to be a self-starter, early riser and prepared for a long day’s work. Ability to think outside the square essential to success. Determination and persistence. The ability to strike a conversation with everyone on almost any topic have enabled me to build strong working relationships.

Working conditions

I have worked both indoors and outdoors. In the beginning I had to do long days and lots of extra-curricular work.Overall I have found the people

who work in the industry to be the most caring and considerate people in society.


I love working with cattle and people with a similar interests. I have experienced several jobs within agriculture, and found there to be a true variety of experiences with so many options e.g. farming, retail, research, engineering, manufacturing, finance and medical.


Since Uni I have worked for: myself, Landmark, Constellation wines, two dairy farms, LION Dairy and Drinks.

Where can you work?

There are no limitations, being a young and enthusiastic agricultural graduate I am contacted on a monthly basis with job offers.


I have pursued a career path in the dairy industry, so I can work on farm or as a service provider to farmers. My peers from uni are all over the world in, management, finance, farms, research & horticulture.


Do some work experience with cattle and in the industry, this will give you a real taste for the job and contacts which to network.


Choose subjects you enjoy, you will find most things will contribute to your career in agriculture, and naturally if you enjoy your studies you will be more successful in them.

Dairy Scientist

19

“The future is coming, you can be a part of the agricultural revolution.”

Ben WattsBralca

Name: Ben Watts Organisation: BralcaJob Description: I provide technological support to farmers through remote surveillance using a variety of equipment. Technology can greatly assist farmers in making day to day and long term planning decisions.

Presenter’s qualification

HSC, Jackaroo and later went on to complete a Masters of Agriculture.


You can complete a certificate III and/or IV in Agriculture or potentially get qualified at University in Computers, Information Technology or Robotics.


You need to be able to communicate with a great variety of people on a wide range of issues. You need to be able to pay attention to detail and have an ability to follow procedures. Good problem solving skills are a must.

Working conditions

90% of the job is outdoors, you do need to be prepared to work in all weather conditions, but you can manage to fit most of your working day in between 7:30am and 5:30pm


It is great being able to travel across Eastern Australia working with a range of different enterprises. It gives great satisfaction in seeing opportunities in challenges and coming up with new solutions.


You can be self-employed, work for government, like the Department of Primary Industries or industry organisations such as Australian Wool Innovation.

Where can you work?

There are international applications so you can pretty much work anywhere in the world. But predominantly you will be based in coastal, regional, rural areas and cater to agricultural as well as natural resource management.


You can move into working for other agricultural industry service providers such as agricultural consultants or agribusinesses.


You need to think BIG, consider all possibilities. Don’t be limited by what already exists. Think outside the square.


Mathematics, Biology and Agriculture.

Drone Technologist

20

Name: Sam Gemmell Organisation: EldersJob Description: Livestock territory Sales Manager

Presenter’s qualification

Registered Auctioneer

Accredited Auction Plus assessor for livestock

Completed Elders Traineeship


Start as junior territory sales manager.


Be prepared to go outside their comfort zone.

Working conditions

No two days are the same, I can be in the car travelling to properties , working on farm or in the saleyards


I love meeting the variety of people that I come across whilst doing my job.


Own business.Company branch managers or within a zone of a State Sales Team. Where can you work?

From home.

From the farm.

In a rural town.


Endless opportunities to move around in different areas of the agribusiness sector. As you develop your skills and a client base you can work towards becoming a Branch Manager


Talk to as many people as you can about the types of jobs you are interested in. You are bound to find people who will know someone that can point you in the right direction.


Agriculture and Primary Industries.

Elders Agribusiness

“Networking is the key to meeting people who will help you achieve your goals.”

Sam GemmellElders

21

“Farriers are paid incredibly well and it can take you anywhere in the world.”

Barney RogersTafe WSI

Name: Barney Rogers Organisation: TAFE NSWJob Description: Helping horses to achieve and maintain optimum hoof health and thereby maximise horse lifespan and working capacity


Fourth generation Farrier.Third generation Master Farrier.Teaching for 14 years.Shoeing for 28 years.


Students can complete a Certificate III Farrier or a traineeship (Part of the National Training Package).


Great communication skills. Ability to work well with animals and their owners. Be business minded. A good farrier also needs great book keeping skills to be a financial success. Be well presented and be committed to continuing to upskill and learn new things.

Working conditions

You have to be prepared to work long hours. You can often get called in the middle of the night. You are required to work in uncomfortable environments.

Horses may be requiring attention in soggy damp/ cold places and then alternatively it could be a hot, stuffy and dusty stall.


I really enjoy helping to be part of transforming and rectifying a poorly shod horse and restoring it to good health and function.


Ninety five per cent of farriers work for themselves. Only a few subcontract to racing stables or big horse operations.

Where can you work?

You can work anywhere in the world. Australian farriers are very highly regarded because of the broad skills base from hoof health to overall horse physiology. Jobs are plentiful in Australia but also Singapore, Malaysia and Dubai.


You can work with pleasure horses, as well as horses in entertainment or racing industry.


You need to be ready for hard work, it’s physically demanding; you are always on call and you need to be able to tough it out when conditions are not ideal. But the pay is extremely good and you get great job satisfaction.


General Mathematics and Primary Industries.

Farrier

22

“Safety never takes a holiday.”

Ben BrewerNSW DPI

Name: Ben Brewer Organisation: NSW Deparment of Primary IndustriesJob Description: NSW Fisheries Compliance Officer


Bachelor of Applied Science, Fisheries and Aquaculture management. Coxswains grade 1 NC (vessel up to 12 meters Near Coastal). Commercial Diver Level 2. Government Investigations Certificate.


Limitless, a background in Marine Science is by no means essential. A passion for fishing is a good start…Police, Plasterers, Butchers, Army, other compliance officers, Researchers, and students straight out of high school or uni have all been successful in becoming FO’s.


An appropriate level of physical fitness is required. Proof of colour vision testing. Applicants must hold a motor vehicle (manual) driver’s licence valid in NSW and a current NSW boat driver’s licence or equivalent.

Working conditions

Duties include field-based work in all types of weather as well as completion of office duties indoors.


A fisheries officer’s duties vary on a day to day basis. You have a wide range of responsibilities and need to be multi-skilled. Field duties range from routine inspections to operations involving targeted surveillance. A typical day also involves educating and advising fishers with state laws.


NSW DPI (Fisheries, Marine Parks Authority)

Where can you work?

Anywhere in the state where there are waterways, be it coastal or inland.


Promotion either within the Fisheries Officer classification (to Fisheries Officer Grade 3), District Fisheries Officer or Supervising Fisheries Officer as vacancies become available. Lateral transfer opportunities (moving from one fisheries district to another at the same grade) may become available from time-to-time for officers to further their skills, knowledge and experience in other locations.


A passion for the protecting our fish reserves, working outdoors and good communication skills are essential to the role of a Fisheries Officer.


Maths, Biology, English

Fisheries Officer

23

“Food on your table showcases farmers through to chefs.”

Brigid TreloarFood Consultant

Name: Brigid Treloar Organisation: Food Consultant Job Description: Brigid has been a freelance food consultant for over twenty five years. The author of eight cookbooks and co-author of three more, many of them translated into other languages, she also contributes to newspapers and magazines, reviews restaurants and judges cookery and recipe competitions, including the Sydney Royal Easter Show and Royal Agricultural Society’s Fine Food.


TAFE Food Studies, Business and qualified horticulturalist.


You can study Food Science and Food Studies, Nutrition, or Journalism/Communications at university and TAFE. You may also consider attending some of the best culinary schools in the country.


You need to have a creative flair, an eye for detail and a willingness to try new things. You deal with a great variety of people so communications skills are very important as well.

Working conditions

Can be really varied, but it can include TV/radio studios, site locations, celebrity kitchens.


I love advising many of Australia’s food companies on product and recipe development, food styling and photography and providing recipes and cooking information for company websites.


Television, Digital media, Print media, Competition and Expo events.

Where can you work?

This job ensures you travel far and wide. The Australian palate has been evolving at an exponential rate particularly over the last 20 years. This has led to work both nationally and on the international stage.


Movement across to food journalism or food cooking, media presenter, food critic and blogger are all aspects you can dip into.


Have an open mind, never miss considering a potential opportunity... you never know where projects may lead.


Food Technology, Extension English, Photography.

Food Consultant

24

“Your ability to listen is more important than your ability to talk”

Edward HalmagyiFast Ed

Name: Edward Halmagyi Organisation: Fast EdJob Description: Chef, cook book author and food journalist on on regular TV and radio programs as well as having recently published magazine articles.


Chef qualification from Le Cordon Bleu & qualified Beekeeper.


Tertiary education of some sort is important to develop your knowledge and skills. Useful to undertake internships and/or volunteering in your areas of interest to build up your skill set and grow your network into paid employment.


Passion for about what you’re writing about, perseverance and motivation. You need to be interested in people and have an enquiring mind.

Working conditions

Works from an office in Sydney to plan stories and do much of the writing process. A large amount of time is also spent on the road around Australia following story ideas and developing concepts. Each day is different.


Freedom of working for yourself and following own pathway.


Yourself, magazine publication, newspaper, TV show, production company.

Where can you work?

Your own business, magazine publication, newspaper, TV show, production company.


Goal of self-employment, you create your own path and opportunities in food journalism, there is no limit to your potential.


Learn how to tell stories effectively. Listen to the conversations of your audience and what they understand.


Maths critical for any life path. English is important to develop language skills and History to create context for your writing.

Food Journalist

25

“If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”

Mick McCallUnited Aero Training

Name: Mick McCall Organisation: United Aero TrainingJob Description: Senior Helicopter Flight Instuctor/Pilot


Commercial Helicopter Pilot, Grade 1 Helicopter Pilot Instructor.


Trade - electrician, mechanic or any other. Attain a Helicopter CPL Licence, build your flight hours and experience.


Good attitude and work ethic, safety orientated, demonstrates initiative and a passion for aviation.

Working conditions

There are lots of variation for the working conditions, could be hot, cold, busy, quiet, long or short. It can also be quite isolated work.


I love the view! I enjoy meeting new people and constantly learning new things. Theres a great satisfaction when students reach different achievements.


Australian Helicopter companies.

Where can you work?

There are worldwide possibilities.


Mustering, chemical spraying, fire fighting, oil and gas offshore, tourism, aerial film/photography and fish spotting.


Talk to people in the industry, learn from them, always try your best and put in that extra bit of effort.


Maths, Physics, English and a Second Language

Helicopter Pilot - Mustering

26

“Work until your idols are your rivals.”

Name: Kate Clancy Organisation: K Clancy HorsemanshipJob Description: Full time horse trainer & breaker. Encompasses horse husbandry, all aspects of breeding, handling & training of young horses as well as retraining of older horses. Also includes the campaigning of horses & our entertainment shows. Can include photo shoots, videography & film opportunities.


Pro Trainer Coach (Horse Safety Australia) Cert III Horse Husbandry (Horse Breeding & Breaking Tocal)Cert IV Agriculture (Tocal)


Life experience in many aspects of the industry. Study at Tocal or TAFE


Patience, resilience, approachable & understanding demeanour, good work ethic.

Working conditions

Working conditions vary from late night foal watch, early morning track work to 9am starts and 5pm finishes at a trainers stable. All work in the equine industry is subject to change & flexible hours.


I enjoy the variety in my work; with so many facets to the business you rarely get the opportunity to become bored.


Trainers Stable Managers Pre Trainers Breakers Entertainment Shows (circus, carnivals, outback spectacular)Breeders

Where can you work?

The equine industry is a world wide industry with a wealth of opportunity. Essentially you can work anywhere in the world.


Stable Hand, Professional Show Rider, Horse Breaker/Trainer, Assistant Trainer, Performer, Track Rider, Jockey, Mounted Police, Instructor.


Be willing and open in all tasks, despite not all being glamorous. Doing these jobs not only teaches you more but shows your work ethic and will open new opportunities.


Business Studies and Agriculture.

Horse Husbandry and Education

Kate ClancyK Clancy Husbandry

27

“As a young person in the Agriculture Industry, I am excited to see where my path takes me.”

Caitlin HughesWestern Sydney University

Name: Caitlin Hughes Organisation: Western Sydney UniversityJob Description: I am a current Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security student at Western Sydney University. I’m two years into my degree and headed toward a career in Agriculture Research.


Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security.To become a Researcher, I will need to complete my Masters and PhD.


Careers in international agricultural development are available for people with agricultural degrees from bachelor to PhD level.


A strong desire to learn, create and be challenged in your day to day; on top of a love and enthusiasm for agriculture and food.

Working conditions

Be prepared to travel the world. Even within the space of a month this job can involve such a range of unique experiences.


The idea of traveling the world, helping people, being out in the field and innovating, all appeal to me.

Potential career opportunities & Who can you work for?

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, the World Food Program, and numerous Universities in Australia and globally, just to name a few options. There are also Non-Government Organisations like PRADAN and Oxfam globally doing crucial work that you will work with on agricultural projects.

Where can you work?

Anywhere people eat food.


Get started right now. You can volunteer or do work experience at organisations based in Australia such as Food Bank and OzHarvest as well as using social media to make new networks. Our university has a School Engagement Officer April Browne. Google her to get in touch and come experience what agriculture has to offer.


There are no prerequisites for an agriculture course but if you enjoy studying any of the Sciences, Geography, Social Sciences or Business Studies and you are all about the idea of helping people you will find a place where you can make real change in International Agricultural Development.

International Agriculture

28

29

The Junior Young Farmer Challenge is a fun, entertaining and fast paced competition for young agricultural enthusiasts. It showcases the range of technical skills and knowledge required in farming today, promoting excellence in agriculture and the proactive involvement of young people in the industry.

Each school team that has registered for the Junior Young Farmer Challenge at AgVision will compete against each other in a variety of challenges, aimed to test their knowledge of modern day farm practices and showcase their farming skills, both accurately and safely. The teams don’t have all day to complete each challenge – this is a race against the clock!

The competition is based off the state-wide Young Farmer Challenge, which is open to 18 – 35 year olds across New South Wales. Local Ag Shows hold regional competitions, with the Regional Finals and State Finals held at the Sydney Royal Easter Show each year. The winners of the State Final then progress to the National Final, with great cash and prizes up for grabs.

Come join us at lunchtime to see who takes out the coveted title of Junior Young Farmer Challenge Champions.

WHEN 12:35pm - Lunch Time Entertainment

JUNIOR YOUNG FARMER CHALLENGE

“Experience all Australian Agriculture has to offer while learning new skills everyday.”

Toby DriscollMustering Solutions

Name: Toby Driscoll Organisation: Mustering SolutionsJob Description: Jackaroo / Station Hand


Certificate II and III in Agriculture, Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician


There are a variety of pathways into this career and many companies support on-the-job learning and traineeships.


It is important to be interested in trying new things as well as having a strong work ethic and willingness to work hard in many conditions. You must be a great team player but be able to work independently when required.

Working conditions

Being a Jackaroo/Jillaroo means that every day will be different. You will spend time in the stock yards, time on a horse, time on a bike and time driving vehicles - sometimes all in one day!


Working outdoors is the best part of my job. I also really enjoy the challenges that working on a station brings as well as working with horses and cattle.


Private farms/businesses, corporate livestock companies, livestock processors, government bodies.

Where can you work?

Rural, urban, national, international. Potential career opportunities

Working as a Jackaroo/Jillaroo is a great opportunity to develop practical skills in the agricultural industry. These skills can be transferred into other careers within agriculture or a Jackaroo/Jillaroo can keep learning to become a Leading Hand, Head Stockman and Managers of properties or stations.


Look for work experience on farms and take the opportunity to take a gap year on a farm/station before further study. Many people use the skills they learnt as a Jackaroo/Jillaroo everyday in their careers.

Apprenticeships, traineeships?

Many companies and businesses encourage traineeships and on-the-job learning whilst working as a Jackaroo/Jillaroo.

School based traineeships?

Schools with Agricullture and Primary Industry subjects may offer school based traineeships. There is also Agricultural Colleges that offer Certificates and training.


Agriculture, Primary Industries.

Jackaroo/Jillaroo

30

“Never forget the emotional attachment that people have to their farms and animals.”

Graham WilliamsCastlereagh Feeds

Name: Graham Williams Organisation: Castlereagh Feeds/TAFE NSWJob Description: Business development manager at Castlereagh Feed and part-time teacher of Agriculture at TAFE NSW.


Diploma of Agriculture and Certificaet IV in Training and Assessment.


TAFE and University.


Multiskilled Organised Comfortable selling and presenting

Working conditions

Combination of administration, field work and travel.


I enjoy the variety of work I get to do and people I get to meet. I also love working with the livestock!


Manufacturers Farmers Rural Merchandisers

Where can you work?

Any regional area with livestock and farming enterprises.


Business Manager Project Manager Manufacturer Merchandiser


You have to be versatile, expect the unexpected. Treat every customer equally and know your product.


Business Studies, Primary industries and Agriculture.

Livestock Feed Formulator

31

“I help them achieve more than they were expecting and more than they thought they could.”

Steve AllinghamCattle Husbandry Plus

Name: Steve Allingham Organisation: Cattle Husbandry PlusJob Description: Self-employed cattle consultant working with dairy farmers on their properties about breeding health and nutrition. Specialising in small scale operations with mainly dairy farms that have 2 to 3 milking cows producing boutique dairy products.


I have a lifetime of experience managing dairy farms. I have completed my tertiary education with a Diploma in Ag specialising in Dairying.


There are a variety of university degrees in Agriculture. Try and include animal husbandry and nutrition subjects. Your experience and background is also an asset. You can build up your skills through other education and short courses. If you want to do breed consultancy or artificial insemination it does not require a university degree.


Need to have people skills and be reasonably articulate. You need to have a lot of patience and be effective at communicating to a variety of people in different ways from university professors to people on farm.

Working conditions

Very early starts and late finishes. You have to work around the client’s daily schedules. Weekends are a busy time as this tends to be a peak time when people on their properties have the time to listen. I am mostly outside in the paddock and in all-weather elements.


The huge amounts of variety – no two jobs are the same. Even the same problem may have different solutions depending on the client and the animals. I enjoy the challenges and seeing people achieve the best results for their business and their animals.


Variety of jobs in both the public and private sectors. I am self-employed, but you can be an agronomist with seed or fertiliser companies. Or you can work as a consultant with semen

and breeding consultancy companies. There are also job opportunities in the Department of Agriculture.

Where can you work?

It will depend on the areas you choose to specialise in, eg. Dairy properties are predominately along the east coast. Agronomy and breeding consultants and nutritionists can work internationally.


Agronomy and breeding consultancy, and/or animal nutrition.


Look for things that interest you and go after anything that can get you started and a bit of exposure. Passion for agriculture is invaluable.


Biology, Primary Industries,Science, Agriculture.

Livestock Nutritionist

32

“Never underestimate what you can achieve when you collaborate with others.”

Dominique MarendyUniversity of New England

Name: Dominique Marendy Organisation: UNEJob Description: A PhD candidate at the University of New England while working full time as a parasitologist for an international animal health company. Daily working a range of research looking at the development of new treatments for the various parasites that impact our livestock industries.


I received Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience from the University of Sydney with an emphasis on livestock production.


A degree in Animal Science and/ or Agricultural Science is the best way to learn the skills required for this type of work.


You must be self-motivated with the ability to identify and solve problems. An ability to show initiative will take you a long way in your career. Most importantly a willingness to learn from others will help you the most.

Working conditions

This career offers a lot on variety. A typical day can involve working at your desk, in the lab or outside with animals, all on the same day.


I enjoy the variety the most. I get to work with such a variety of animals (and of course parasites)! Every day is different, with a new problem to be solved.


You may work for the Government in the Department of Primary Industries, in a university in research or lecturing. You may also be employed by a large company, such as an animal pharmaceutical company or act as a consultant to smaller farming operations.

Where can you work?

Spin the globe and where ever your finger lands you can probably find a job there. The opportunities are endless!


With undergraduate qualifications you can work in a range of agricultural fields including; reproduction, nutrition, welfare, production, animal health, consultancy, sales, market analysis and research.


Work experience is going to open a lot of networking opportunities and give you a taste of what kind of careers you might be interested in. If you’re thinking about a career in research, completing honours or masters at the end of a bachelor’s degree is going to give you a good opportunity to test it out.


Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Agriculture.

Livestock Scientists

33

“I love seeing people appreciating the quality of beef we have in Australia.”

Kylie SchullerUniversity of New England

Name: Kylie Schuller Organisation: UNEJob Description: As a Supply Chain Coordinator for Andrews Meat Industries, you will oversee the whole production process from production in the processing plant through to the sales and marketing to the end customer.


Bachelor of Livestock Science from University of New England.


TAFE studies, coming through as a Butcher, apprenticeship, working in a processing plant and advancing.


Communication skills.Understanding different cultures.Attention to detail.

Working conditions

A typical week involves office work, supervising production at the processing plants and visiting end customers such as chefs, hotels and restaurants.


Supplying high quality product to consumers and seeing them appreciating the quality, as well as telling the story of Australian Beef.


Anywhere along the supply chain of the meat industry or the hospitality industry more broadly.

Where can you work?

Processing plants, sales and marketing, anywhere along supply chain.


Overseas travel and progression to higher level in the industry.


Get involved by networking in the industry as early as possible, attend cattle shows and meat judging competitions.


Chemistry, Business Studies & English.

Meat Scientist

34

“Australia is at the forefront of Agricultural Tech and Equipment - Get Involved!”

Karl LassengerJCB

Name: Karl Grasinger Organisation: JCBJob Description: As a Construction Equipment Demonstration we can be constantly getting updates from the Research and Development engineers about what they are developing and our job is to inform existing clients and the wider market place about the latest advancements.


Australian Army - Underwater Construction


Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade.

Experience in sales.


Energetic, able to meet deadlines and have a customer focus.Genuine passion for machinery. Like being a problem solver to ensure your client gets the best product to meet their needs.

Working conditions

Indoor and Outdoor.

Potential to travel to clients in far and remote locations.


I really enjoy demonstrating new pieces of equipment and seeing the satisfaction on a client’s face when I can see them imagining how this piece of equipment can be used in their particular enterprise.


Own business; machinery companies; machinery repair workshops; in sales as well as Customer Service and Parts

Where can you work?

At the sales showroom; in your car; from the farm; construction site; rural town or major city.


Sales Representative, State/Territory Manager.


If you have an interest in machinery and you like understanding how machinery works, look for opportunities to help you achieve your goals.


Industrial Technology

On Farm Technology

35

“Animals can tell you a lot, if you just observe.”

Daniel PowerAREA

Name: Daniel Power Organisation: Australian Racing and Equine Academy (AREA)Job Description: Workplace trainer and assessor for the Australian Racing and Equine Academy.Teacher at Richmond TAFE Performance Horse and Racing Qualifications. Covering careers in both the Racing and Performance Horse Industries


Cert IV Training and Assessment Cert III Performance Horse Cert II Stablehand Racing


AREA offer introductory courses to develop basic horse handling skills right through to management skills to operate a professional performance stable.


If you have a passion for horses and the outdoors this industry is for you. You will need to be physically fit and have a good work ethic.

Working conditions

Working with horses and working outdoors.


I enjoy meeting new people with a dream of working with performance horses like myself, assisting with career decisions and developing skills required for the horse industry.


International Event, Dressage or Show Jumping riders as a groom.Stablehand in performance stable.Stable manager for professional riders. Local studs as a groom or farm hand.

Where can you work?

The horse industry is a worldwide business with travel opportunities.Many of the country’s best riders are here in Sydney if you are interested in grooming.


There are many careers available including Grooming, Performance Stable Manager, Stud Manager, Horse Massage, Farrier.


Gain horse handling and or riding skills where possible through T-Vet courses and weekend riding lessons.


Personal Health and Fitness, Science

Performance Horse Groom

36

“Knowledge gained is never wasted.”

Alicia SteelUniversity of Sydney

Name: Alicia Steel Organisation: University of SydneyJob Description: A varied role involving public speaking, scientific communication, mathematics/statistics, writing, designing presentations, managing students, working in a team environment, teaching, animal handling, managing a lab, designing experiments, farm work and travel.


One year of Information Systems at Macquarie University. One year of Animal Science at Charles Sturt University. Completed a Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience at the University of Sydney and am now in my third year of a PhD.


A degree in Animal Science and/ or Agricultural Science is the best way to learn the skills required for this type of work.


Patience, strong will, passion and drive to learn.

Working conditions

PhD students mostly manage themselves but have one or two local supervisors. My local supervisor is pretty relaxed and I decide my own hours and whether I work in the office, lab, or at home.


I enjoy the freedom to choose where and when I work, the travel opportunities, teaching, communicating difficult concepts in simple way, solving difficult problems and contributing to knowledge. This job has been the most challenging and rewarding thing I have done in my life!Who can you work for?

There are lots of teaching opportunities within the university for PhD students. Many students also get jobs in other scientific labs (developing vaccines, quality control, breeding labs etc).

Where can you work?

Any where in the world! There are great opportunities to travel as a researcher.


Academic Lecturer, Scientific Researcher, management positions – lab, farm, scientific communications, scientific sales.


This pathway requires a strong academic record and excellent communication skills.


EnglishMathScience – biology, chemistry, physicsDebating

Pig Research Scientist

37

“Whatever you decide to do in life, try to be good at it. Every industry needs leaders.”

Rob PefferCanobolas Eggs

Name: Rob Peffer Organisation: Canobolas EggsJob Description: Sales Manager - Responsible for packing, sales, marketing and distribution of Canobolas Eggs.


Bachelor of Commerce/Law (UQ), Nuffield Scholar (2015)


There are many, many ways to get involved in the Egg industry.


Literacy and especially numeracy are really critical. Managing egg sales involves a lot of numbers. Attention to detail and patience are also very important. Persistence and reliability are essential.

Working conditions

It varies but usually I am inside a shed or vehicle. My role involves occasional early starts (eg. 3-4am). A moderate fitness level is required.


I enjoy seeing our products on the shelf in a supermarket. I also enjoy seeing our sales revenue climb each year. It’s also great when someone rings up just to rave about the quality of our product.


There are a lot of jobs involving sales in agriculture or any other industry. The skills are transferrable; subject mastery is harder to acquire though.

Where can you work?

There are egg farms across much of Australia, especially NSW and Victoria.


The egg industry is facing a skills shortage of people with the desire and stockmanship ability to manage alternative production systems (cage free and free range).


Egg farming is not a pathway to instant wealth but if you are reliable and dedicated you can make a good living out of it.


I encourage everyone to make sure you leave school able to read, write and count. If you are interested in the technical side of poultry management, an understanding of biology and electrical systems is definitely an advantage.

Poultry Production Manager

38

Performance Horse Veterinarian

“Always look for the positive, good things will come your way.”

Emily StreckfussHawkesbury Valley Equine Clinic

Name: Emily Streckfuss Organisation: Hawkesbury Valley Equine ClinicJob Description: Practice Vet.


Bachelor Veterinary Science (Honours) and AERA and FEI accreditation


You can start doing any number of undergraduate degrees but you still need to complete a post graduate qualification in Veterinary to become a practising Vet.


Hard working, prepare to get dirty and work really long hours day or night.

Working conditions

You work in many and varied locations often with no air conditioning and your personal comfort is stretched as you can be doing jobs in the rain, cramped stables or in the dust and blazing heat of summer.


I love seeing a horse recover after a successful treatment or series of treatments. It makes the long hours all worth it!


Vet Practice, Agricultural companies, research companies, District Veterinarian.

Where can you work?

In a paddock, city, rural area, in the paddock, or surgery rooms, internationally.


Working in the Horse industry is an exciting area to work in , both thoroughbred, stud and pleasure horse provide many opportunities from on farm to consultancy.


Be willing to strive for your dreams and work hard to achieve them.


Agriculture, Biology, Geography, Mathematics.

39

“If you do a job you love you will never work a day in your life.”

Alex MurrayKalyx Australia

Name: Alex Murray Organisation: Kalyx AustraliaJob Description: A research agronomist is responsible for the management of trials operation of seeders/boom/harvesters, assessment methodologies, components of trial design, protocol development and site selection, weed identification and chemical application, trial site management and writing of scientific reports.


A Bachelor of Animal Science from the University of Western Sydney and a Masters of Science in Agriculture from the University of New England.


Any science based degrees are desirable.


Have a passion for agriculture and a thirst for knowledge, a love for out doors, good planning and organisational skills, an analytical and problem solving mind and a high attention to detail.

Working conditions

The work is seasonal and can range from the shed packing seed and getting chemical organised to being outside doing assessments and driving headers/seeders to being in the office writing a scientific report and liaising with clients.


I love to watch how things grow from a new variety of wheat or canola to the evolution of a new chemical and how it performs.


Government organisations such as CSIRO and GRDC, universities, private plant breeding research company’s and chemical research companies.

Where can you work?

Anywhere! Research agronomy companies are based in the city and country all over the world.Potential career opportunities

Senior research scientists, plant breeders, agronomist, consultant, teacher, lecturer.


Do what you are interested in, have an open mind and never miss out on an opportunity, it is never to early to start.Suggested school subjects to study

Maths.Agriculture.Chemistry.Biology.

Research Agronomist

40

“The opportunity to celebrate the diversity of Australian agriculture is a great privilege.””

Aimee SnowdenLittle Brick Pastoral

Name: Aimee Snowden Organisation: Little Brick PastoralJob Description: Creator, Social media and blogger.


Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management Diploma in Event Management and PR Adv. Diploma in Agriculture


Qualifications in Communications and PR would be an advantage. Multiple career paths from farmer to professional.


Genuine passion for agriculture. Creativity - whether that be photography, writing, graphic design, etc.

Working conditions

Indoor and Outdoor. Potential for travel.


I love the variety! And the fact I get to combine so many of my loves - agriculture, photography, and social media - and of course, LEGO®.


Own business. PR or Communication Agency. Industry or Government Agency. Private Business.

Where can you work?

From home. From the farm. Rural town or major city. Potential to work via freelance or remote.


PR Consultant. Public Speaking. Education.


The nature of the work is adhoc and very much a “love project”. It is an advantage to have complimentary work to support yourself.


English Creative Arts Business Studies

Rural Advocate

41

“You need to get a range of skills to succeed.”

Chris PetrikasTAFE WSI

Name: Chris Petrikas Organisation: TAFE WSIJob Description: Our business is concerned with supplying new and used machinery to a variety of trades including, general farming, and horticulture in both commercially and the domestic markets. We provide machinery of all sizes including tractors to ride on mowers to push mowers. Our business is involved in sales and service, both in a work shop environment and in the field.


I have many other qualifications since my school days including a trade (Plant Mechanic) and teaching qualifications, I have been a part time teacher, mostly Agriculture for more than 20 years.


Alternative trades and careers exist for machinery maintenance, including general vehicle servicing, spare parts supplying and manufacturing, large commercial and civil machinery used in commercial excavations including mining.


To be a maintenance mechanic involves being observant, organized and enjoy working with machinery and people. It can be physically demanding and most time requires getting dirty.

Working conditions

Most often you would be working within a workshop, however at times you would carry out on site repairs as well.What do you enjoy about your job?

It gives me great pleasure to provide excellent customer service, and to help people maintain their small engines and keep them running well, so customers can use their machinery efficiently and safely.


In all agricultural districts there are many pieces of machinery that are used from day today. This machinery requires regular servicing. Opportunities will always exist for anyone who is looking at machinery maintenance as a career path.

Where can you work?

As a mechanic, you could work all over Australia or even New Zealand.


Alternative trades and careers exist for machinery maintenance, including general vehicle servicing, spare parts supplying and manufacturing, large commercial and civil machinery used in commercial excavations including mining.


Try and obtain some work experience to determine whether you are cut out for this type of job. Work doesn’t come to you, you have to be proactive in seeking work.


Maths, English, Agriculture, Business studies and Industrial Arts.

Rural Machinery Maintainance

42

“Satisfaction comes from providing quality stock to farmers to improve their financial position.”

Jeff SuttonWattle Farm Border Leicester Stud

Name: Jeff Sutton Organisation: Wattle Farm Border Leicester StudJob Description: Breeding Border Leicester rams for use in the production of First Cross Ewes. Providing the sheep farming community with quality, sound performing rams for crossbreeding purposes and or for the enhancement of their own stud quality flocks.


Sheep farming forms the basis of this career. Success as a stud breeder involves being mentored by those in the industry, success at Shows and an understanding of management.


Stud breeders might work for a stud master full-time in order to gain experience. Ultimately, you either work for a breeder or breed your own sheep. You could also complete CIII Advanced Diploma in Agriculture.


Managing your time, finances and business; ability to communicate with others; determination to succeed; and confidence in your livestock.

Working conditions

Stud breeders work on farm sites. This means you will range from working in the sheds, collecting semen samples and working in the lab, to rounding up sheep in all weather conditions outdoors.


My job satisfaction comes from providing quality stock to farmers so that they improve their financial position and the quality of their stock.


Private enterprise, Government.

Where can you work?

Rural, international.


Working for agricultural companies, agricultural laboratories and general agriculture industry jobs.


Take any advice you can get and be sure to source information from those who have your best interests at heart.


Agriculture, Mathematics, English, Biology.

Sheep Breeder

43

“If you enjoy problem solving and the outdoors, look at Stock and Stations as a career.”

Des Makeham Makeham Livestock Marketing

Name: Des Makeham Organisation: Makeham Livestock MarketingJob Description: Livestock sales, assessing and marketing livestock.


Licenced Stock and Station Agent.


Traineeships.


Excellent Maths and English, good communication and flexibility.

Working conditions

Mostly outdoors and in all elements of weather.


Working with a variety of people.


Any private or corporate company.

Where can you work?

Anywhere in rural AustraliaPotential career opportunities

Opportunity to move up within a company to executive management.


Work on your communication and thinking outside the box.


Maths, English and Agriculture.

Sheep Consultant/Sales

44

“A shearer’s life can take you anywhere in the world, if you are prepared to work hard.”

Jim MurrayAWI

Name: Jim Murray Organisation: AWIJob Description: Shearing is the process of removing wool from the sheep. Shearers harvest wool by removing the wool off the sheep, so the wool handlers can pick up, throw and skirt the fleece, remove the belly wool and prepare the fleece for the wool classer.


Shearer for 35 years, shearer trainer for many years.


Cert III in Wool Harvesting at TAFE.


You need to be physically fit and capable of working 7:30am-5:30pm each week day during shearing season. To meet the demands of week in, week out work you need to be in marathon condition.

Working conditions

Shearers work in a shearing shed on a farmer’s property. Shearing sheds house a number of sheep and allow a number of shearers to work together at once. Each shearer has a stand, an electric handpiece and a catching pen to hold their sheep before they bring them out to be shorn. Shearers work for four, two-hour blocks per day, called ‘runs’.


I really enjoy working with the sheep, harvesting the wool and running a tight team. The camaraderie amongst shearers is like no other job.


Generally you work for a contract shearing team; and as you develop your skills and experience you can eventually run your own team, organising their shearing contracts throughout a region.

Where can you work?

You can easily find work in any shearing shed around Australia or New Zealand. There is often the opportunity to work in the many countries around the world, with shearers going to Japan, India and Scotland.


Shearing can lead to other aspects of the wool industry including wool classing or working as a broker, or even see you move into farm management.


Look for work as a wool handler. This is the first step in getting a feel for the shearing shed. Then, over a couple of seasons you can build up your shearing skills when you can be engaged as a fully-fledged shearer. You can also participate in a beginners shearing school to be taught basic skills which you can then begin to practice.


Agriculture and Primary Industries.

Sheep Shearer

45

“Earn as you Learn”

Melissa ConnorDepartment of Industry Training Services

Name: Melissa Connor Organisation: Department of Industry Training Services NSWJob Description: As a farm trainee, you work closely with the farmer performing all farm, livestock husbandry and management operations. You and the farmer will work as a team to manage a feedlot livestock enterprise and perform all general farm duties.


A Certificate III and Certificate IV in Agriculture, through a training provider while working with an employer. This pathway allows for study and on-the-job training opportunities.


A school-based traineeship is an alternative way of gaining career qualifications while still at school. A full-time traineeship involves learning and working while gaining qualifications. In either a school-based or full-time traineeship, you get paid while you are learning.


Having a love of the outdoors is important as is having an affinity with animals. You need to be willing and eager to learn, be a keen listener and a reliable, trustworthy employee.

Working conditions

The days can be long and the work is physically demanding at times. You will be working in a team and also be required to work independently.


I enjoy working outdoors and working with livestock. Each day there is something new to learn.


Any farming employer who is willing to take you on as a trainee/apprentice in whatever field you are interested in entering. This employee can be a relation eg: parents, grandparents.

Where can you work?

In any place that conducts the types of farming/career in agriculture you are interested in pursuing.


You can progress from a farm trainee to a farm manager with experience. It may be desirable to do further training, gaining a Diploma or Degree in Agriculture to develop your knowledge and skills base.


Don’t be afraid to ask questions and show a keen willingness to learn. Being enthusiastic, punctual and reliable are very important traits as farmers need to know they can trust you to be part of their team.


Senior Science, Agriculture, Primary Industries.

Traineeships in Agriculture

46

“Veterinary work is a physically demanding job that offers great rewards.”

Bob RheinbergerIronmine Vet Clinic

Name: Bob Rheinberger Organisation: Ironmine VetJob Description: A large animal Vet on call to treat largely farm based animals. Days are long and varied and you may travel many kilometres visiting farms in a variety of locations.


Bachelor of Veterinary Science. Member in the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (beef cattle).


You could begin another undergraduate degree with similar subjects such as a Bachelor of Agriculture, Veterinary Science degree.


An affinity to work closely with people is important as they will be your best communication tool for the animal you are treating. You need to be a great problem solver who looks at the animal from a holistic perspective making a diagnosis and treating for prevention.A background or interest in animal nutrition is beneficial as this is an integral part of the animal’s system.

Working conditions

We really aren’t in the office much at all. Particularly with production animals. The work can be quite physical and we are on the road a fair bit.When you do find the time to work behind the computer you will find yourself reviewing data and making recommendations to your clients based on the conclusions made from the data you review.


I enjoy the camaraderie with my clients.In a large animal veterinary practice you really have to be able to work with your client. The healthier their animals are, the better the result in production.I also enjoy being outdoors.


Private practice, Government, as a contractor, for universities.

Where can you work?

A career in veterinary science can open up international opportunities.


Pharmaceutical companies, teacher or lecturer, animal behaviorist, medicine or research.


There are universities who will accept people with an interest, enthusiasm and affinity for the job.


Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics.

Veterinarian

47

“Study is an opportunity, don’t waste it! .”

Cassie MacdonaldBega and Cobargo Veterinary Hospitals

Name: Cassie MacDonald Organisation: Bega and Cobargo Veterinary Hospitals

Job Description: Rural mixed practice Veterinarian


Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary ScienceCertificate II in AgricultureAlternative pathways to this career

Many universities offer alternate entry pathways, recieve the required marks to immediately begin veterinary studies.Mature age entry. Personal requirements

An interest in animals, their interactions and their welfare. Being able to empathise with both animals and their owners. Using logical thinking to strategically review a patient and diagnose illnesses. The ability to multitask and adapt to and embrace change and continuous learning.

Working conditions

Time is spent out of the office (ie: on farms), in the clinic and in the office. The work can be physically and mentally demanding and days can be long.


As a rural mixed practice I enjoy working with my clients to get the best for their animals. It is challenging, no day is ever the same. As I mainly look after the dairy cattle that produce the famous ‘Bega Cheese’ I enjoy working towards the goal of “the healthier their animals are, the better the production, the better the Bega”.


Private practice and hospitals, public sector such as government bodies, as district veterinarians, advisors, policy writers or Quarantine.Research and Development entities, Pharmaceutical companies, Universities, large farming enterprises and live export companies.Volunteer third world country programs, Veterinary employment and consultancy

Where can you work?

Across Australia and Internationally.


A veterinarian can work in areas such as: mixed practice, small animal, farm animal, equine, emergency, referral surgery, referral medicine, specifics such as reptile and wildlife clinics, universities, corporate companies in research and development, government bodies.Advice for students interested in your type of work

Keep striving for the best results with your HSC marks; however remember that there are a number of alternate pathways into university study if you are passionate about animals and the industry.


Agriculture, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Physics.

Veterinarian

48

“Let your passion for animals drive you to help change the way we care and treat animals.”

Rebecca CoventryTAFE NSW

Name: Rebecca Coventry Organisation: TAFE NSWJob Description: Veterinary Nurse.


CIV Veterinary Nursing Dip VET, CIV SBM, CIV TAE Alternative pathways to this career

You need to undertake a Certificate II in Animal Studies (this is offered as a T-Vet Course to Year 11 students). Personal requirements

To be a Veterinary Nurse you need to be compassionate and have empathy for the animals and people that you work with. You need to be OK with animals being sick and have an interest in medicine; you need to be OK with the gory bits. You need good communication skills and enjoy working with people, as the owners are the people who will give you the important information to address any issues.

Working conditions

Normally nurses work a 35-40 hour week. Vet Nurses tend to work with either small animals or livestock, we call this small animal practice or mixed animal practice or large animals practice. You need to be fit and active; there is a lot of standing and lifting involved.


I love being able to help nurse a sick animal back to health, caring for them and following the case. I love when they can leave the hospital and love getting to see the joy on the clients face when they get to take their pet home. It makes the job worthwhile.


You may work for a private practice, as a Locum (contractor), in an emergency, specialist or referral clinic or also for tertiary institutions, teaching Vet Nursing or assisting with research.

Where can you work?

Anywhere. Local, Interstate, International.


As a Veterinary Nurse, the opportunities are endless. You could be a Vet Nurse assisting in practices and places around the world; a surgical nurse; emergency nurse; large animal nurse; wildlife nurse or zoo vet nurse. Travel to other countries to be part of veterinary projects.


My advice would be to find work placement in your local clinic and see if this really is the job path for you. Getting some work experience will expose you to the role.


Agriculture Certificate II in Animal Care as a T-Vet course.

Veterinary Nurse

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“I get to create order out of chaos. I am in control of the jobs I take and get to achieve great outcomes.”

Fiona Raleigh

Name: Fiona Raleigh Job Description: As a professional Wool Classer, you will work with wool classing team (shearer & handlers) preparing wool growers’ clips for sale. You could also brinch into working as a Wool Classing instructor and train wool handlers at shearing schools.


Diploma Agricultural Science.Graduate Diploma in Teaching.Wool Classing Certificate IV.


Wool classers have to have the Wool Classing Certificate IV to be registered. Practical experience would be an asset but is not essential.


It is a shearing team so you must be a team player and must work together sometimes for long periods of time. You need to enjoy physical work whilst also being comfortable with responsibility as you manage a shearing team.

Working conditions

You can sometimes work in remote locations or large regional centres, but all work is done in shearing sheds which have varied facilities. This job gives you the ability to choose

where you go (timing can depend on the area’s shearing season).


I enjoy wool and travelling around onto growers’ farms helping them increase their profits. The physical work and being part of different dynamic teams throughout the year is also a highlight.


You can be employed by the grower directly, or work for a shearing contractor. Wool brokers also employ wool classers to handle wool that comes into their stores.

Where can you work?

Australia wide – where ever there are sheep! This includes all over Australia (apart from NT), and New Zealand.


Wool classing has the only formal training in the wool industry as it is quite technical and scientific whilst also being engaged in all areas of the wool industry. Many people go on to careers in sheep husbandry, wool broking, auctioneering, testing and processing – it really is the stepping stone to the whole wool industry. It is also great to do if you want to understand more about sheep and wool before tertiary studies.


You have to be willing to roll up the sleeves and get involved in all aspects of the job.


Agriculture.Science.Maths (general).Biology.

Wool Classer

50

“Knowledge is to be passed on to the next generation.”

Tony Mulvihill

Name: Tony Mulvihill Organisation: TAFE NSWJob Description: On a day to day basis you train and compete with working dogs.


Diploma in Agriculture; Diploma in Horticulture, Certificate III in both Agriculture and Horticulture. Certificate IV in Training & Assessment in the workplace. Certificate in Handling & Training of working dogs. Low Stress Stock Handling Certificate. Cattle And Sheep Judging Certificate. A 5th generation farmer who has owned, operated and managed rural properties.


Tony is working with TAFE to investigate the possibility of a Certificate in the Care and Training of Working Dogs.


You need to be patient, have respect for the animals you are working with and form a bond with the animals. You also need to be a good leader as the animals you work with rely on you to lead them to perform the tasks you require.

Working conditions

It’s a mixture of outdoor tasks such as mustering in paddocks, working in cattle and sheep yards, working in shearing sheds and penning up stock.You also work with chemicals by way of drenches and backline sprays on the stock you are working on.


I enjoy working with my dogs, teaching others and passing on knowledge. I also enjoy seeing people achieve things with their dogs that they never thought they would achieve.


You could work for agricultural companies, including primary producers and agribusiness.You can own your own property or manage someone else’s.

Where can you work?

Rural and regional Australia.


There are many career opportunities. You may start as a farm hand and develop your skills and qualifications to become a farm manager, or farming consultant. You may work with chemicals, as well as work with livestock and animal husbandry vocations.


Speak to your school careers advisor about pathways for the career of your choice.


Agriculture is an important elective to take.

Working Dog Trainer

51

“Don’t limit yourself to one particular path as you never know where it may lead.”

Michael WoodenOceanWatch Australia

Name: Michael Wooden Organisation: OceanWatch AustraliaJob Description: Program Manager – Wild Catch Fisheries, Oceanwatch Australia. Improving environmental performance in the seafood industry through work related to primary seafood producers.


Master of Science (Research)Bachelor of Applied Science – Fisheries Science Management and Aquaculture Graduate.Member of the National Seafood Industry Leadership ProgramCertificate IV Training and Assessment


Science based university programs.


Good interpersonal and communication skills. Have an understanding of industry as a system with an ability to think conceptually. Have a genuine interest in the seafood industry, including research, extension and education.

Working conditions

80% of this job is working indoors working on projects, papers and reports, attending representative committees and attending functions. I also work in the field at times organising

and hosting community engagement activities. Other work includes field research activities, working on water or on the back of a boat.


I am passionate about working with people in the Fisheries Industry. I really enjoy helping the Fishing Industry to identify improvements in the industry and encouraging practice change.


You can work for a number of employers including: not for profit and non government organisations like Oceanwatch

Where can you work?

Working on water does not necessarily mean practical work on water. People working in the seafood industry can work anywhere, from the offices of Canberra to estuaries and waterways throughout Australia.


Roles that deal with the development of government policy. Appointment to committees that deal with industry and/or policy processes. Seafood industry advocacy. Fisheries research, management or compliance.Water quality, environmental improvements, fisheries habitat etc.


Don’t assume every starting point is a straight line to the job you will end up in. Look carefully at every opportunity available, enjoy the journey and the many destinations available.


Science: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Marine Science, Social studies, Mathematics.

Working on Water

52

“Anyone can make the simple complicated. Creativity is making the complicated simple.”

Sarah SandersonAnvil Media

Name: Sarah Sanderson Organisation: Anvil MediaJob Description: Working with clients to make videos for their company, product/property, or cause.


Bachelor Degree: Communications (Writing & Publishing)


Other Bachelor degrees (e.g. Journalism / Fine Arts / Media) Internships for television / film / radio. Media training colleges (e.g. AFTRS: Australian Film, Television and Radio School)


Strong communication (verbal & written), Creative, Collaborative, Inquisitive, Problem solving, Strong organisational skills, Enjoys working with people, Able to take constructive criticism / feedback, Able to track and manage progress on a project.

Working conditions

You have to be comfortable working in an office or outdoors, and with a range of people.

While there is travel involved, it is not always glamorous - you have to work and be professional in all types of places and situations. Be ready for any type of weather, smell, animal, or environment.


I love the variety of my job. I get to research and work on so many different and interesting projects where you meet and learn from many talented people. Also being able to work on a project from start to finish gives you a great sense of achievement.


Freelance / your own business, Media companies (e.g. Fairfax), Various film & media outlets, Corporate companies (that have a film/media department in-house), TV Broadcasters (SBS, ABC, Channel 10 etc.).

Where can you work?

Anywhere in Australia, or the world.


Media producer, Presenter (TV / Radio / Film), Script writer / copywriter, Content Specialist, Creative director, Film/video editor (requires additional software & systems knowledge/training), Journalist, Reporter, Broadcaster, Editor, Media Advisor, Account/Communications Executive, Social/digital content developer, Project manager/Stakeholder engagement, Public affairs/relations


Get any type of work experience in this field that you can. Many of the technical skills needed are learnt “on-the-job”, or at a media training colleges.


English, Media/Tech/Business & Marketing, Drama/musicPrimary Industries (available through Distance Education, has theory and hands-on components).

Working in Media

53

“ I love that we can share the beautiful product that our family works to sustainably produce.”

Emma Elliott The Little Big Dairy Co

Name: Emma Elliott Organisation: The Little Big Dairy CoJob Description: Managing Director


Certificate IV (agriculture) Dairy traineeship. Bachelor of Agricultural Business ManagementAlternative pathways to this career

I have undertaken a traineeship and then went on to Uni. There are a number of pathways, just ask a Dairy Farmer or our industry body Dairy Australia and they will point you in the right direction.Personal requirements

Hard working, respectful, good communicator. Working alongside your husband is both great and challenging. You have to be a hard worker, good communicator and don’t let the small stuff get you down.

Working conditions

I am the sole director of Little Big Dairy Co and my husband Jim and I share the complete management of the business, which our family owns shares in. Jim works the farm with my Dad and I work promotion and marketing in addition to the business administration and development.What do you enjoy about your job?

I love seeing the raw product right to the end consumer. I also love being a part of our families business. Who can you work for?

Banks, ag companies, research companies, dairy farmers, milk processing companies. Farm liaison services, so many options!

Where can you work?

Working on farm is part of the business but as I work to develop our business this sees me travelling to the big smoke and board rooms around the country.


The Dairy Industry in Australia is always looking for local talent. More and more recently we are talking about our responsibility as farmers to ensure the land is profitable for the future generations.


Be willing to get in and give things a try. Ask lots of questions, and work hard.


Agriculture, Biology, Geography, Primary Industries

Working with Dairy

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Careers in Agriculture - Sydney Royal Easter Show · Chef, Farm Manager, Wool Classer, ET Technician, Agronomy, Marketing, Shearing, Animal Husbandry, Butcher Involved though in a