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Peter Westblade Scholarship applications open for sheep and wool youth

Sheep Central, November 29, 2016
2016 Peter Westblade scholarship wi8nners, from left, Emily Anderson, Josh Malloy with Craig Wilson.

2016 Peter Westblade scholarship wi8nners, from left, Emily Anderson, Josh Malloy with Craig Wilson.

YOUNG people passionate about the sheep and wool industry, and wanting to make a difference, can now apply for the prestigious 2017 Peter Westblade Scholarship.

The scholarship is in its sixth year of providing opportunities for young people to experience all aspects of the sheep and wool industry.

It is open to people aged 18 to 30 years, and honors the late Peter Westblade, a Lockhart sheep producer passionate about breeding profitable sheep and supporting young people interested in agriculture. Click here to get Sheep Central story links sent to your email inbox.

The scholarship’s joint 2016 winners Emily Anderson and Josh Malloy came from a national field of 24 applicants.

Emily graduated from the University of New England in 2012 and has worked in the family’s sheep and wool enterprise at Binda. She also works part-time for a local contract shearing team.

Miss Anderson’s career goal is to participate in industry networks and groups, and identify and implement improvements to the family farm business.

“The Peter Westblade Scholarship has provided invaluable insights and contacts within the Merino industry” Miss Anderson said.

Josh has worked on and off-farm in the sheep and wool industry since leaving school.

He applied for the scholarship with the expectation of meeting industry leaders and young people with a passion for sheep and wool.

Scholarship 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 twelve month tailored experience.

“It provides practical education and mentoring for young participants, whilst rubbing shoulders with leaders in all facets of sheep and wool industry. This encourages young people into the industry by exposing them to opportunities and career paths,” she said.

The 2017 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.

Applications close on Wednesday February 1, 2017, with applicants short-listed in early March for interviews by an industry panel.

The 2017 Peter Westblade Scholarship recipient will be announced at a dinner in Wagga Wagga, NSW, on Thursday April 6, 2017. For more information visit www.pwscholarship.com.au

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