Riverine Plains is proud to be sponsoring a student through the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program and is encouraging local university students from the Riverine Plains region to apply for this valuable opportunity.
Applications for the program close on Friday 10 January 2025, and for young people passionate about agriculture, the Horizon Scholarship is a chance to transform their future.
Local student and past Riverine Plains Scholarship Program recipient (John Hanrahan Scholar, 2022), James White, recently completed the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship. James shares his experience and how the program supports tertiary students to build networks, develop the next generation of agricultural innovators, and indeed, broaden their horizons.
James first heard about the Horizon Scholarship through a friend who had participated. "I found it online and applied," James said, reflecting on the journey that followed.
The program began with an online meeting before his cohort travelled to Cairns for a week-long workshop, setting the stage for what would become a defining year of growth.
"The highlights were definitely the people I met and the places I travelled. As a university student, you often don’t get these opportunities to explore the country, gain practical experience, and meet people outside your own area," James shared. "I travelled to some amazing places and met exceptional people who are determined to make a positive change in agriculture. It was inspiring."
The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship is more than just financial support – it’s a doorway to experiences that shape a career in agriculture. Scholars receive a $10,000 bursary over two years, professional development opportunities, and industry placements tailored to their career aspirations.
For James, the program’s real value was its ability to connect students with like-minded peers, mentors, and industry leaders. "It gave me the chance to meet people in different industries, learn from their experiences, and broaden my thinking," he said. "The networking was incredible. I came away with connections I wouldn’t have otherwise made."
Learning to make these connections led to new opportunities, including James’ current role with Hybrid Ag, where he works alongside agronomists and farmers exploring innovative solutions.
“That job came about from conversations at conferences and field days. I just kept putting my hand up to learn, volunteer, and have conversations. Opportunities come when you get involved.”
The Horizon Scholarship also gave James practical tools to manage his studies and career development.
"It probably taught me time management, because I had to juggle uni assignments alongside travel and placements," James admitted.
More importantly, it inspired him to think about his future strategically, “I’ve got a bit of a philosophy: always do something that’s going to benefit you the next year. Whether it’s placements, subject choices, or volunteering, just think ahead a little bit.”
His advice to other students is simple: "If there’s something you’re interested in, put your hand up and ask to learn, even if it’s unpaid. That’s how you get a foot in the door. AgriFutures made that easier with the bursary support and connections, but the mindset of just being willing to learn is what opens doors."
The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship provides more than funding; it offers a unique platform for personal and professional growth, including:
James believes programs like the Horizon Scholarship are critical for young people in agriculture. "While you’re at uni, people are willing to teach you and take you under their wing. Once you graduate, it’s a different experience, so take every opportunity to learn while you can. Plus, make sure you have some fun along the way!"
Riverine Plains encourages its members and their children studying agriculture-related degrees to seize this opportunity and is sponsoring a student who is from the Riverine Plains catchment area. There are also multiple opportunities that are sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), Hort Innovation and others.
Applications for the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship close on Friday, 10 January 2025 at 5pm AEDT sharp.
To apply or find out more, visit the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program page.
For students like James, the Horizon Scholarship isn’t just a program; it’s a launchpad to a fulfilling career in agriculture. "You don’t have to wait for someone to hand you a job. The Horizon Scholarship shows you how to create your own opportunities."
Riverine Plains is proud to support the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators. If you’re ready to expand your horizons, take the first step and apply today.