PROFILE OF A FARM MANAGER

Stuart grew up on a farm in North eastern Victoria before deciding to study Agriculture Science. He says he always wanted to study science and the integration of science and farm management in the agriculture science course appealed to him.

After graduation, Stuart worked for Wesfarmers as a sales representative.

Wanting to concentrate on farm management, Stuart applied for a scholarship to study dairy farm management at Massey University, New Zealand. He then joined Murray Goulburn Co-op Co Ltd Koroit as a Field Officer on his return from New Zealand.

As a Field Officer, Stuart provided support to farm suppliers on issues ranging from financial analysis and quality to technical topics related to farm productivity improvement. Stuart enjoyed working as part of a small team who played an important part in developing and maintaining good relations between the company and their supplier members.

Stuart has now decided to become a fulltime farm manager and has returned to manage the property in North East Victoria. He sees a tremendous future in the dairy industry for young people wanting to combine business skills with science and life in the country.