Sean Cunningham, Narrandera Argus

Agvision Yanco took place last week to promote agricultural careers to hundreds of students from throughout the Riverina-Murray region.

It is the biggest regional NSW interactive event which promotes careers in agriculture.

Students participated in numerous interactive workshops using Yanco Agricultural High School’s onsite facilities.

Aimed at promoting agricultural careers for mainly Year 9-12 students, Agvision Yanco featured local industry representatives giving students the opportunities to learn about the new skills and careers in modern agriculture, through a variety of agricultural-based workshops.

One of the event co-ordinators, Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) Senior Project Officer Katie Friedlieb, said the school hosted 471 students and 47 teachers from 27 schools throughout the Riverina for the event.

“A total of 75 representatives from local agricultural organisations hosted 41 workshops on niche agricultural topics.

“There was also over 50 sponsors and guests in attendance to support the day.

“The event was a great opportunity for students to meet industry representatives and find out more about future careers they may want to pursue.”

Bringing business representatives and high school students together to learn about career pathways in agriculture and to start building the future local workforce, the successful event has been beneficial for a number of students.

“I’ve already heard of one student following up work experience with an employer and another student pursuing a gap year opportunity in ag – both activities promoted by employers at the event,” Ms Friedlieb said.

“Students and teachers loved being able to select workshops from so many different topics and get that variety outside of what they may see in their immediate community.

“Attendees also praised the venue at Yanco Agricultural High School – they said it was the perfect location with all the onsite farming facilities.

“And, they’re already asking about when we’ll hold it again in the future.”

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting the growth of the AgTech sector as part of its efforts to build a highly skilled workforce to drive innovation and efficiency in the state’s critical agriculture industry.

“Agriculture is an ‘engine room’ industry in NSW. Farmers across the state produce more than $17 billion worth of food and fibre every year. Agricultural technology, ‘AgTech’, is vital to the ongoing success of the agricultural industry for our state.

“AgTech is transforming the agriculture industry across the globe and it’s essential that NSW has the relevant skills to ensure we remain a world leader in the field.

“Developing a workforce of the future is critical to solving talent gaps for employers and create opportunities for individuals seeking to enter the industry.”

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:

“This ground-breaking collaboration between government and industry across secondary schools, VET and higher education highlights the shared responsibility in influencing young people’s career choices to meet industry needs and provide exciting job opportunities accessible through a range of pathways.

“In NSW, the agriculture industry is a strong contributor to the economy and plays an integral role in the prosperity of regional communities.

“By developing a highly skilled workforce, NSW AgTech companies can become more internationally competitive and continue to provide regional employment opportunities.”

Chris Wilkins, AusAgritech Secretary said:

“Australia has the potential to be a global leader in AgTech. To achieve this, we must invest in the next generation of regional innovators.

“The AgTech Workforce Development Strategy for NSW addresses critical skills gaps, enhances STEM attraction, and fosters collaboration between research and entrepreneurial communities, particularly in regional areas. The Australian Agritech Association is committed to supporting its successful implementation and ensuring a robust, skilled workforce for the future.”

This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 19 September 2024.