Muresk achievers awarded

The number of industry sponsored scholarships and academic prizes presented at the Muresk annual awards dinner is a reflection of growing recognition for the Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management offered at the school.

A total of 25 scholarships and subject awards were presented at the dinner on May 5 attended by about 140 students, parents and friends, members of parliament, industry representatives and staff.

In her welcome, head of the School of Agribusiness, adjunct professor, Christine Storer acknowledged the growth in intake of students.

“From an initial intake of 21 students into the degree in 2014, we now have almost 60 students spread over the three years and expect a steady increase in future years,” she said.

“(This growth is) thanks to those in the agricultural and agribusiness industries who sponsor scholarship and academic awards and others who provide support by way of guest lectures, hosting field trips, providing work placements and helping students complete projects.

“Without the support of government and industry, establishment of this degree at Muresk with its emphasis on agriculture in all subjects, would not have been possible. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our first graduates early next year.”

Professor Storer also acknowledged the work of the former managing director of C Y O’Connor Institute, John Scott, who negotiated the re-establishment of the degree at Muresk in a partnership with Charles Sturt University.

Guest speaker at the dinner was emeritus professor, Mal Nairn, a graduate of Muresk, foundation professor of Veterinary Science at Murdoch University and a member of the C Y O’Connor Institute agribusiness advisory panel responsible for overseeing re-establishment of the degree at Muresk.

“I'm delighted John Scott is here tonight as it allows me to publicly acknowledge his vision, determination and stamina in making the degree program a reality,” professor Nairn aid.

In his talk, professor Nairn recalled the 1960’s as an amazing time for agriculture with massive light land development in the Esperance districts.

“Field days attracted 500 people and were like a shot of adrenalin for young graduates and potential farmers,” he said.

“Today we are seeing a scramble by high profile corporate and successful entrepreneurs looking to invest in agricultural land as they see an expanding worldwide need for animal and plant products.”