• Charles Sturt University students make up almost a quarter of 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarships recipients
• Five students to receive $10,000 bursary over two years, as well as opportunities to develop leadership skills and expand professional networks

Five Charles Sturt University students have been announced among 22 nationwide recipients of the 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarships.

The scholarships are designed to develop the next generation of rural leaders, focusing on the applicants’ commitment to agriculture, leadership potential and career aspirations.

Recipients are provided with a $10,000 bursary over two years, thanks to support from industry sponsors, as well as opportunities to develop their leadership skills and expand their professional networks.

Recipients will also attend a four-day professional development workshop and complete two weeks of industry placement each year, all of which is covered by the support of their sponsor. The workshop will feature guest speakers, industry experts and field trips.

Mr Charlie Shadwell, who is studying a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Charles Sturt, was thrilled to receive his scholarship, which is supported by the Australian Wool Initiative.

“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 wool industry,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting the other students involved in the program, learning more about the challenges and opportunities across the agricultural sector and how I can be a future leader in Australia’s rural industries and communities.”

The other Charles Sturt recipients are:

• James White (supported by Southern NSW innovation Hub)
• Joshua Ronalds (supported by Horticulture Innovation Australia)
• Lucy Ford (supported by Baiada Poultry)
• Lucy Walsh (supported by Australian Eggs)

Mr John Harvey, Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia, 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 Program 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,” Mr Harvey said.

Mr Harvey congratulated the 22 students on their success and welcomed them as the next generation of rural leaders.

“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 industries,” Mr Harvey said.