A passion for horticulture has earned Charles Sturt University (CSU) student Mr Timothy Whitehead the Australian Institute of Horticulture (AIH) Student of the Year award for 2010. The award is open to students aged under 30 who are currently studying a nationally recognised horticultural course. “Each applicant had to submit an overview of their study and a motivation of what they would contribute to the industry in the future,” said Mr Whitehead. Having worked in the industry for seven years before studying the Bachelor of Horticulture at CSU, Mr Whitehead has a particular interest in vineyards and orchards. “In my application I mentioned that I have an interest in microbiology applied to horticulture, improving irrigation methods, and using these two areas of development to aid food production in the developing world.” As part of his award, Mr Whitehead will represent the AIH as a student ambassador in 2011 while continuing his studies at CSU.