Passion drives young farmer

A PASSION to work in agriculture has driven Lucy Powell from a very young age.

Having grown up on her parents’ hobby farm in Paraparup near Winchelsea, her dedication was something WestVic Dairy’s Young Dairy Network regional extension officer Heidi Van Es recognised immediately when they met in 2014.

“We discussed how she could pursue her passion for agriculture at secondary school, despite the limited number of subjects available,” Ms Van Es said.

“This enthusiasm has remained, and this year Lucy will graduate from Longerenong Agricultural College with an Advanced Diploma in Agribusiness Management.”

Currently milking on Phil Meade’s dairy farm at Boorcan while she completes her studies, the hands-on experience has only grown Ms Powell’s interest in the dairy industry, particularly animal nutrition.

As an active member of the Young Dairy Network for a number of years, Mr Meade encouraged Ms Powell to attend events as well as other farm-related workshops and meetings.

Next year will see Ms Powell attend a WestVic Dairy-organised Don Campbell Memorial Study Tour, heading to the dairy regions of northern Tasmania to explore a variety of farming systems.

“The tour develops students’ business analysis skills through farm visits and completing units of study,” Ms Van Es said.

“Lucy will use this to develop her knowledge and skills as well as increase her networks within the dairy industry.”

For more information about the Young Dairy Network, phone Heidi Van Es on 0459 227 337.