The 2017 Peter Westblade Scholarship recipients Harrison Mulquiny and Rachael Gawne.
Young people passionate about the sheep and wool industry, and wanting to make a difference, can now apply for the prestigious 2018 Peter Westblade Scholarship.
Now entering its seventh year, the scholarship provides opportunities to experience all aspects of the sheep and wool industry.
Open to young people aged 18 to 30, the scholarship honours the late Peter Westblade, a Lockhart sheep producer passionate about breeding profitable sheep, and a supporter of young people interested in agriculture.
The 2018 recipient will receive mentoring from industry leaders, involvement in the industry’s largest commercial genetic trial, practical training, travel and the opportunity to develop wider networks of key industry contacts.
The 2017 scholarship winners Harrison Mulquiny and Rachael Gawne were joint recipients from a national field of applicants.
Harrison Mulquiny, 21, Wooroonook, Vic, is interested in how different Merino bloodlines perform in varying environmental conditions.
Racheal Gawne, 22, has an animal science degree from Charles Sturt University, Wagga, and works with sheep industry consultant Sally Martin.
Executive officer Georgie McGuiness said the scholarship aimed to deliver hands-on involvement to young people aspiring for a career in the sheep and wool industry, through a 12-month tailored experience.
“It provides hands on education and mentoring for young participants, whilst rubbing shoulders with leaders in various fields of the sheep and wool industry,’’ Mrs McGuiness said.
“This encourages young people into the industry by exposing them to opportunities and career paths.’’
Applications close on December 29 at 5pm, with applicants short-listed mid-January for interviews by an industry panel in February 2018.
The 2018 Peter Westblade Scholarship recipient will be announced at the annual PWS dinner at the Murrumbidgee Turf Club in Wagga Wagga, NSW, on March 1, 2018.
For more information visit www.pwscholarship.com.au