University student awarded agricultural scholarship

University student Holly Miller, of Narrabri, has been announced as one of 22 recipients of the 2023 Horizon Scholarship.

The scholarship is an initiative supported by seven research and development corporations, along with Kalyx Australia, Baiada Poultry, Southern NSW Innovation Hub and Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre, to develop the next generation of rural leaders.

Following an extensive judging process focused on the applicants’ commitment to agriculture, leadership potential and career aspirations, 22 students from around the country were awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.

Holly is sponsored by Grains Research and Development Corporation and will receive a $10,000 bursary over two years, and plenty of opportunities to develop her leadership skills and expand her networks.

On top of the bursary, she will also attend an annual four-day professional development workshop and complete two weeks of industry placement each year, all of which is covered by the support.

John Harvey, AgriFutures Australia managing director, congratulated Holly on her success and welcomed the next generation of rural leaders to the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program.

“Congratulations to our 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship recipients, whose exceptional passion, ambition, and commitment to agriculture has distinguished them from a talented pool of applicants.

“It is very exciting to see the quality and diversity coming into our rural industries,” said Mr Harvey.

Mr Harvey thanked the Horizon sponsors and acknowledged their significant contribution to the program, particularly in offering students valuable exposure to the agricultural sector.

“The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship would not be possible without our sponsors.

“The diversity of industry sponsors reflects the desire across the board to focus on the next generation of leaders who will build prosperous and sustainable rural industries of the future,” said Mr Harvey.

Holly, who is studying a Bachelor of Rural Science at the University of New England was thrilled to receive the scholarship and thanked GRDC who will support her Horizon Scholarship journey.

“I’m so excited to be awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, not only will it provide me the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, but I will also gain valuable hands-on experience in the grains industry,” said Holly.

All students involved with the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program will attend a four-day workshop in July focused on leadership and personal development.

The workshop will feature special guest speakers, industry experts, and also provide the opportunity to network, meet sponsors and discuss innovations and challenges in the agricultural sector.