RURAL Industries Skill Training (RIST) proudly celebrated an important milestone last week for the Class of 2023, with a graduation ceremony marking the completion of their studies in a range of agricultural courses.

The ceremony, held at the Kantor Music and Performing Arts Centre, was a testament to the bright future of agriculture, underscored by RIST chair, Tony Fleetwood’s, opening remarks, “Your journey in Agriculture has already begun, and the future is bright with promise.”

This year’s graduation saw students receiving their certificates in qualifications across a spectrum of disciplines from Certificates II through to Diploma level qualification.

The ceremony was not just a recognition of academic achievement but also highlighted individuals who exemplified excellence, leadership, and dedication in their studies.

Among the award winners were Oscar Ritchie, Jake Hudson, Wiremu Faithfull, Cody Rice, Lachlan Phillips, Jack Clancy, Brendan Wines, Emily Mulholland and David Stewart, each acknowledged for their outstanding contributions and academic achievements.

RIST chief executive, Bill Hamill, offered his congratulations to the graduates and extended gratitude towards the dedicated staff, trainers, parents, employers, participating schools and other partners, including the Victorian Government, Meat and Livestock Australia, Australian Wool Innovation, and Australian Wool Education Trust.

He emphasised the importance of curiosity and courage in the students’ future endeavours, “Maintain your curiosity, embrace courage, discover and follow your passion, ignore the naysayers while remaining humble and polite.”

The ceremony also spotlighted RIST’s continuous growth and development, with 2023 marked by significant capital improvements and new course offerings set to launch in 2024.

A significant moment of the evening was the presentation of the John Dawson Award by one of RIST’s founding members, Peter Small, to Timothy Reesink.

As the graduates look forward to their next steps, RIST remained committed to nurturing the next generation of agriculture professionals with record student enrolments in 2024.

RIST has continued to offer a comprehensive educational pathway in agriculture, from pre-accredited education to vocational education, including traineeships while providing direct pathways to higher education, alongside a variety of non-accredited short courses.

Mid-year enrolment for courses will open in June 2024, with ongoing enrolment opportunities for a wide range of short course programs.