Grain Producers Australia is calling for nominations to participate in a new and unique scholarship program, focused on developing grains industry talent and producing future leaders.
Paddock to Parliament Grains Advocacy Scholarship HERE
GPA’s partnership with Nufarm is already making a positive difference, empowering National Ambassador Brad Hogg to raise greater awareness and understanding about the importance of metal health and suicide prevention in farming communities.
GPA and Nufarm are now combining to launch another new initiative, with a uniquely grains-focused leadership program that’s seeking applications from interested industry participants.
GPA Chair, Barry Large, said the new Paddock to Parliament Grains Advocacy Scholarship provides a pragmatic opportunity to learn directly from, and be mentored by, experienced advocates.
“We want to promote diversity of leadership and welcome interest and applications from women and others from diverse backgrounds, looking to become future industry leaders,” he said.
The scholarship will see two successful applicants win a $15,000 bursary each, cash and in-kind. The scholars will identify an issue connected to the grains industry, and/or their farming business and then develop and work with experienced advocates, on a plan to try to influence a solution.
Mr Large said the scholars will engage with other experts and stakeholders connected with the grains industry, while working on delivering a specific policy and advocacy initiative.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce two future leaders to real life grains policy and advocacy processes and gain positive mentoring from experienced grass-roots advocates,” he said.
“GPA is extremely grateful for Nufarm’s support to help deliver this fantastic opportunity to identify and develop future grains industry leaders.
“From my own personal experience, growers can learn on the job as you go, but working with those who’ve been on the journey, sharing invaluable advice and lessons, provides a great head-start.”
Nufarm Australia Commercial General Manager, Peter O’Keeffe, said his company recognised GPA’s leadership qualities with growers standing up and taking on responsibilities to represent their peers and farming communities, on the GPA Board and Policy Council.
“The world’s run by those who turn up. People such as GPA’s Andrew Weidemann have shown leadership by turning up for their industry and doing the job of representing growers,” he said.
“This program provides a unique opportunity for the next generation to learn first-hand from someone like Andrew who has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the Australian grains industry by being awarded a member in the general division of the Order of Australia (AM).
“This will ensure invaluable experiences are not lost and can be passed onto to the next generation of leaders, to benefit growers, industry and rural communities long into the future.”
Applications are now open and will close on Friday 9 June 2023.
More information about the program and details on how to apply are available HERE
ENDS