The Agricultural Bureau of South Australia has opened its 2019 Spirit of Excellence in Agriculture Awards, which offer young farmers and rural youth the opportunity to pursue personal and professional development to ultimately benefit their local communities.
Applications are now being accepted for the following awards:
• The Sustainable Agriculture Scholarship sponsored by the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) is an $8000 grant for a farmer (aged 18-40) to pursue further study, take a study tour or run a special project. DEW is committed to supporting communities and industry to make decisions and take action to ensure the sustainable use of our natural resources.
• The Rural Youth Bursary sponsored by Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) is a $5000 grant for rural young people (aged 18-30) working in a rural community, not necessarily in agriculture, to undertake further study in their chosen career with an ultimate benefit to their community. PIRSA is committed to growing primary industries and driving regional development.
The Sustainable Agriculture Scholarship honours the memory of the late Peter Olsen, a serving member of the Advisory Board of Agriculture who was killed in a Whyalla plane crash in 2000. The Scholarship acknowledges Peter and his wife Wendy’s passion for environmental management and advocates for sustainable farming practices.
Mark Grossman, Chair of the Ag Bureau, says that successful recipients for each award are chosen on their abilities, achievements, vision and motivation for success.
“The Ag Bureau of SA is proud to continue to encourage and support rural youth who are working not only in primary production but in careers that sustain rural communities,” Mr Grossman said. “We encourage all members of the community to nominate and encourage applicants.
“The Bureau also acknowledges the support of both the Department for Environment and Water (DEW) and PIRSA, which allows us to provide these prestigious scholarships.”
Applications for the 2019 Spirit of Excellence in Agriculture Awards are open until 5pm on Monday September 16 2019.
To find out more and apply: www.agbureau.com.au/awards or call (08) 8249 7581.
The 2019 awards will be presented at the Agricultural Bureau of SA’s annual Spirit of Excellence Awards Dinner at the Arkaba Hotel on Friday October 18.
