ON Monday, Glenelg and Southern Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network (GSGLLEN) and Rural Industries Skills Training (RIST) hosted the Careers in Agriculture Day for interested Year 9 students in the region.

The annual event rounded off the recent VETDSS Taster Days held in Hamilton, which gave students a clear indication of what vocational training options are available to them for their senior secondary studies starting in Year 10.

Year 9 students interested in agriculture, from schools across the region including Monivae College, Baimbridge College, Good Shepherd College, The Hamilton and Alexandra College, Balmoral K12 College, and Heywood Secondary College were invited to attend the Careers in Agriculture Day at RIST.

RIST chief executive, Bill Hamill, said the day allowed for students to make use of the many great pathway opportunities in Hamilton.

“Participating in the careers in Agriculture Day is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore diverse career paths in the agriculture sector,” he said.

“I encourage all students to engage actively and take advantage of the hands-on experiences offered on the day.

“This event can be a gateway to a rewarding and exciting future in agriculture.”

Students were able to gain first-hand experience in the diverse careers opportunities within the agriculture sector and observed an autopsy undertaken by a local vet.

They were encouraged to “pull their sleeves up” and get hands-on experience with key areas of agriculture, including shearing and wool handling, agri-tech, agronomy and livestock handling under instruction from local professionals in the various fields.

Year 9 students have a broad range of opportunities to engage in vocational education and training while still at school and agriculture is an industry where there are multiple training and work options in the region.

Students who are keen to pursue the opportunities at RIST are encouraged to make follow-up enquiries through their school VETDSS and career coordinators or with RIST directly.  

GSGLLEN executive officer, Anne Murphy, said the day presented local students with insightful information to help pursue their interest in careers in Agriculture.

“This event is important to showcase the career opportunities in agriculture and the great opportunities available to young people in this industry,” she said.

‘We are very happy to partner with RIST to make this day available to our local students.”

Students were provided with the necessary information should they wish to pursue training opportunities at RIST in Year 10 and beyond.