Victoria’s brightest young farming leaders will be supported to invest in their future and explore new learning opportunities while being backed by the Allan Labor Government to build the future of agriculture in Victoria.  
 
Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced that Maffra farmer Jasmine Maher would be one of 16 statewide recipients for this year’s Young Farmers Upskill and Invest Scholarships. 

Ms Maher will receive $2,090 to upskill in a ruminant nutrition course, and $5,000 to invest in a calf catcher. The calf catcher will reduce the stress and potential injuries that can take place around calving time for both the handler and the animal. 

Successful applicants will receive training to build their knowledge and expertise in areas such as irrigation, agronomy, conservation, and land management, as well as core business skills in areas including accounting, human resources, and marketing.
  
Once they have completed their studies, applicants can invest in modern technology and equipment, on-farm strategies and planning, and their own professional development to kickstart their career as a farmer. 

Since 2015, the Labor Government has awarded 133 Young Farmers Upskill and Invest scholarships to students that demonstrated drive and innovation.  

Many of the previous recipients have gone on to play a vital role in industry leadership positions such as the Victorian Young Farmers Advisory Council.   

The Council represents the views of young farmers and provides advice to government to help grow a sustainable and profitable agriculture sector.  

For more information on the young farmer programs visit agriculture.vic.gov.au.  
 
Quotes Attributable to Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence  

“The Young Farmers Upskill and Invest scholarship is about encouraging our future agriculture leaders to be adaptive and responsive to the challenges and opportunities the industry presents.”  

“We are proud to have supported 133 Victorian young farmers to reach their potential, and in turn they help us secure our food system and strengthen our local economy.” 

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh 

“This is fantastic support to passionate and enthusiastic young farmers at the cutting edge of their field, with great outcomes across the board.” 

Quotes attributable to Maffra Farmer Jasmine Maher 

“As regenerative grazers, it’s essential to not only understand the science behind our soil management practices but also to maximize rumen function and the nutritional value of the feed we provide our cattle.” 

“A key component of my scholarship will be investing in a calf catcher - an essential tool that significantly improves safety and reduces stress for both handlers and livestock.” 

“As a seedstock producer, accurate data collection and identification of new progeny born each year is critical. The calf catcher will streamline this process, allowing me to complete this task quickly and efficiently while minimizing stress for the animals, contributing to improved on-farm productivity.”