APPLICATIONS have opened for the largest pool of potential Nuffield Australia farming scholarships, with up to 30 prestigious opportunities available nationally in 2017.
WA Nuffield chairman Cameron Tubby, a 2009 Nuffield scholar, said WA's agricultural industries had benefited from strong participation, with more than 50 scholarships awarded in the State.
"Nuffield is the leading program for primary producers in WA, identifying our future leaders and helping to drive excellence in our agricultural industry," Mr Tubby said.
"There are a number of WA-specific scholarships available, including for a grain producer in WA, supported by CBH Group, and a grain grower (GRDC Western Region), supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
"We are also particularly keen to identify applicants in the dairy and horticultural industries, including bananas, for 2017 scholarships as there are some specific scholarships on offer in these industries.
"I can speak from personal experience about the impact Nuffield has on your life and your business, with lifelong friendships and professional networks being great highlights."
There are also opportunities for wool, livestock, pork, horticulture, egg and chicken meat producers to apply.
Successful scholars take part in the annual Nuffield contemporary scholars conference as well as one of six global focus programs featuring a six-week intensive itinerary of international travel with fellow scholars to look at international trade, marketing and environmental issues.
The Nuffield Australia national conference features a unique mix of returning scholar presentations featuring cutting edge research outcomes, highly regarded national and international speakers covering hot industry topics and a wide range of networking functions.
Mr Tubby said a significant part of the scholarship program is the opportunity to select an individual study program through countries of the scholar's own choice, tracking down innovation and ideas to inform their own business, industry and communities.
A 2014 scholar Bob Nixon, Kalannie, said the scholarship was life changing.
"The challenge of removing myself from the family business for an extended time gave great perspective to evaluate my role and the dynamics of our set-up," he said.
"Nuffield provides a growing opportunity - understanding the world changing around you and being inspired by other industry people and practices, while keeping in sight the basics of your business at home."
Nuffield Australia provides opportunities to Australian primary producers and managers to travel the globe investigating a research topic important to them and Australian agriculture.
Scholars receive a $30,000 bursary to embark on a 16-week program, consisting of group and individual travel, over a two-year period.
WA scholars awarded scholarships last year include:
p James Dempster, Mingenew, who received a scholarship supplied by the GRDC Western region. He is studying innovative ways to expand the family farm, such as buying more farm land.
p Steven Davies, Perth, received a scholarship supported by the FRDC. He is investigating the development of socially responsible and economically sustainable wild-catch seafood and aquaculture industries in Australia.
Applications for 2017 scholarships close on June 30.
p More information: www.nuffield.com.au.
