Southern students among scholarship winners

Southern students are among the recipients of scholarships aimed at boosting on-the-ground support for farmers and growers.

The recipients of the six On Farm Support Science Scholarships scholarships, each valued at $5000, includes two southerners.

University of Otago student Georgie Burdon, of Lake Hāwea, who is studying towards a science degree, majoring in agricultural innovation, was ‘‘very happy’’ to be a recipient.

‘‘It is positive for the University of Otago, which has a long history of producing leaders in the agricultural industry,’’ Miss Burdon said.

She was raised on Glen Dene Station, a strong advocate for the primary industries, a member of Lake Hāwea Guardians, and has interned at WAI Wānaka.

Her plans for next year include studying at the University of Virginia.

Massey University student Ella Bryan, of Forest Hill near Winton, who was raised on a sheep and beef farm and finished her fourth yesterday studying towards a veterinary science degree, was ‘‘stoked’’.

She would use the scholarship funds to travel to practical work placements next year, she said.

Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard said New Zealand’s agriculture sector remains central to the economy and food and fibre exports generated $53.3billion in revenue as of June this year.

The initiative was part of the government’s strategy to double export value over the next 10 years.

“These impressive scholarship recipients represent the future of primary industry advisory services, and they’ll play a key role in helping our food and fibre sector thrive.