Young Queenslanders eyeing a future in the agricultural industry are being offered a sneak-peek at the operations of supermarket chain
Young Queenslanders eyeing a future in the agricultural industry are being offered a sneak-peek at the operations of supermarket chain Woolworths.
The Woolworths agricultural business scholarship program in Sydney allows students to learn the tricks of the grocery trade through training and practical experience.
In its third-year running, almost 60 students have already successfully completed the course which is to be held in mid-August.
Tours of stores, fresh food markets and distribution centres kick off the practical element of the program.
Group work and presentations from key figures within the industry – such as senior Woolworth’s managers – offer further first-hand knowledge.
Woolworth’s Director of Supermarkets, Greg Foran, says it is a great opportunity for young people to fast track their careers and gain valuable insight.
“The agricultural business scholarship program is part of Woolworths’ commitment to rural Australia which includes fundraising efforts such as the recent Backing our Farmers day, the Woolworths’ Fresh Food Bursary and partnerships with Landcare and the Country Women’s Association,” he says.
Anyone between the ages of 20 and 30 who are employed in the agricultural or horticultural industry are encouraged to apply.
Those currently undertaking second or further years of study in the agriculture field are also eligible.
Longreach farmer James Hegarty attended the course in 2008 and says he highly recommends it to any young person in the agricultural field.
“The program has taught me things that I can apply to my business in order to make it more successful,” he says.
Course fees, hotel accommodation and flights to Sydney will all be covered by Woolworths.
The program runs in conjunction with the University of Western Sydney and the Royal Agricultural Society.
Full details and application forms can be found at www.wowcareers.com.au.