Media release

The one-day event featured practical workshops and engaging presentations from local agricultural professionals and businesses leading the way in AgTech and sustainability including, TAFE NSW, Hutcheon and Pearce, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Fox & Lillee, Charles Sturt University - Smart Farm and Nurtien Ag Solutions.

TAFE NSW delivered eight student workshops including Ag Mechanical (delivered in conjunction with Hutcheon and Pearce), Livestock Handling, Horticulture, and Crops and Pastures. Other workshops included Wool Industry (delivered in conjunction with Fox & Lillie Wool Brokers and Huey's Run Shearing Contractors), Soils (delivered by NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development), Rural Merchandising (delivered by Nutrien Ag Solutions) and Charles Sturt University - Smart Farm.

The initiative sought to spark student interest in the wide-ranging roles available across the sector – from agronomists and agricultural engineers to soil scientists and biotechnicians.

According to Senior Project Officer RIEP, Stacey Suidgeest, the annual event, now in its third year, underscores the need to view agriculture as a high-tech, solutions-driven industry that plays a central role in addressing global challenges such as food security, sustainability and climate change.

“Ag Industry Days are about shifting the narrative and showing students that there are dynamic, high-impact careers in this sector as they progress into senior school years and careers,” Ms Suidgeest said.

“Agriculture today is far more than just life on the land,” she said. “We need people working behind the scenes in science, technology, logistics, and agribusiness too. These events provide students with a fun and informal way to discover just how far a career in ag can take them,” she continued.

TAFE NSW Primary Industries Centre, Head Teacher Agri and Animal Care, Anna Ingold, added that the event offered students a valuable window into an industry with strong job growth and future opportunities.

“The agriculture sector in the Riverina-Murray region is thriving, and with that growth comes a need for skilled and passionate professionals,” she said.

“TAFE NSW is committed to training the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping them with the practical hands-on experience and knowledge they need to succeed.”

Media contact: Karen Farrell, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000

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