Young Wee Waarians awarded AgriFutures scholarships

Wee Waa’s Caitlyn Coutts-Smith and Emma Holmes have been announced recipients of the 2025 AgriFutures Australia’s Horizon Scholarship Program.

The pair are passionate about agriculture and are two of just 21 students from across the country chosen to be part of the program, which aims to strengthen the future of regional and rural Australia by cultivating emerging talent ready to drive innovation and change across the sector.

Each scholar receives a $10,000 bursary over two years to support their studies and living expenses, along with access to a unique program of professional development, industry networking and work placements with an industry sponsor.

“The Horizon scholarship is one I’ve been keeping an eye on since Year 11 so to receive it, especially with Meat and Livestock Australia as my sponsor for the next two years, was incredibly exciting,” 19-year-old Caitlyn told The Courier.

“MLA plays a critical role in advancing the Australian livestock industry, and having their backing is both an honour and a privilege.

“Getting that call to say I’d made it through to the next round and then actually receiving it gave me a real confidence boost.

“It’s a huge reassurance that I’m heading in the right direction and that there’s support out there for young people passionate about agriculture.

“On top of that, I’m excited to build upon my professional experience and partake in networking opportunities to further my career and connect with like-minded people in the red meat industry.”

Caitlyn said growing up on a mixed stock and cropping property inspiring her interest to pursue a career in the agricultural industry.

“From an early age, I was immersed in the day-to-day operations of livestock and cropping production, sparking a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into feeding our nation,” she said.

“Throughout high school, I was fortunate to be involved in a range of agricultural extracurricular activities, which provided invaluable hands-on experience and the opportunity to attend cattle and sheep shows across NSW.

“These experiences not only strengthened my practical skills but also deepened my understanding of livestock production, breeding, and industry standards.

“Whilst also introducing me to a network of like-minded individuals who shared my enthusiasm for agriculture.

“After high school, I pursued this passion further by enrolling in a Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, where I am currently in my second year.

“This degree has provided me with a broader perspective on the business and economic aspects of the agricultural industry, complementing my practical background.”

Emma Holmes shared the same mix of excitement and gratitude about being a recipient of the scholarship program.

“When I first found out I’d been awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, I was honestly in shock, and then completely overwhelmed,” 20-year-old Emma told The Courier.

“It’s an incredible honour and a huge boost for my future in agriculture.

“This scholarship represents more than just financial support; it’s a chance to connect with leading minds in the industry, gain practical experience, and continue developing as a young professional.

“What makes this opportunity even more special is having the Cotton Research and Development Corporation as my industry sponsor.

“Growing up in Wee Waa, the heart of cotton country, I’ve always been passionate about the cotton industry and inspired by the role research plays in improving the cotton industry.

“Being supported by CRDC aligns perfectly with my dream of pursuing a career in cotton research.

“This scholarship will help me grow both personally and professionally, giving me the confidence, resources, and support to pursue my passion and contribute to the future of Australian agriculture, especially in the cotton industry I’ve grown up around and love.

“I am currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of New England, with plans to complete a fourth year through a Bachelor of Science (Honours).

“My interest in cotton has grown through hands-on experience, including work in cotton agronomy and with the wheat research team in Narrabri.

“These roles have allowed me to explore the complexities of crop management, data collection, trial design, and plant performance under varying conditions.

“Working alongside industry professionals has given me insight into the challenges and opportunities within modern cropping systems and sparked a strong interest in genetic improvement and sustainable production.

“I’ve also developed skills in interpreting trial data and understanding how research outcomes can be applied at a farm level to improve productivity and efficiency.

“I’m incredibly grateful to CRDC for sponsoring me through the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.”

The 2025 cohort will come together face to face in July for a five-day workshop in Canberra, held in conjunction with the AgriFutures Stakeholder Summit.

The event will feature guest speakers, industry experts, and networking sessions that will expose scholars to the latest innovations and challenges in the sector.

In a statement about the scholarship program, the organisation said: “As Australian agriculture navigates a number of opportunities and challenges such as workforce, climate change and rapid digital transformation, AgriFutures Australia’s Horizon Scholarship Program is investing in the next generation of leaders with the skills and passion to tackle such issues head on”.

Since its inception in 2010, the Horizon Scholarship Program has supported more than 240 students and played a key role in addressing workforce challenges across the sector, with several scholars going on to start their own ventures.

Backed by industry partners, and by fostering leadership, research and innovation capabilities, the program continues to strengthen the resilience, productivity and long-term sustainability of
Australian agriculture.

Reflecting on her experience as a 2018 and 2020 Horizon Scholar, Indiana Rhind, founder of agricultural consultancy Demeter Engineering, 2025 evokeAG Groundbreaker and phD student said the program has played a pivotal role in shaping her work.

“It gave me the skills and confidence to succeed in the professional world through its amazing workshops and introduced me to a network of driven, supportive peers I’m still in contact with today,” said Indiana.

Horizon Scholar and alumni Jack Mooney reflected on the impact the program has had on his career.

“The mentorship and support I received from experienced professionals and invitations to international events enabled me to gain real-world experience, clarity on my career direction, and
the confidence to take leadership roles. My advice to other Scholars is to say yes to every opportunity, be open to learning, and stay connected. The relationships you build are just as powerful as the skills you gain,” said Jack.