The Sydney Royal Cheese and Dairy Produce Show has partnered with the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Foundation (RAS Foundation), with a vision to assist the development of Australia’s next generation of dairy industry leaders.

The RAS Foundation is now in search of students who are passionate about forging careers in the NSW dairy produce industry and who need funding assistance to make their dream a reality.

Made possible by a donation from long time Sydney Royal award winning producer Country Valley, the scholarship will be the first in what’s planned to be a suite of Sydney Royal Dairy Produce Scholarships. Gerry Andersen, Sydney Royal Dairy Produce Committee Chairman said the RAS is committed to supporting the industry at the grassroots level and fulfilling the RAS charter of promoting education in agriculture.
“Students who are passionate about forging a career across a broad range of skills within the dairy industry are able to apply. Careers can include but are not limited to; agricultural science, farm management, veterinary science, food technology, lab technician, marketing and journalism professionals,” said Mr Andersen.

RAS Foundation Executive Officer, Jocellin Jansson said the scholarship aims to reduce some of the financial challenges students often face when it comes to pursuing their education and training goals. “The Sydney Royal Dairy Produce Scholarship will provide vital support and help foster opportunities for students who are passionate about pursuing careers which will make a positive contribution to the NSW dairy produce industry.”
The Scholarship offers $5,000 for full-time study and $1,500 for part-time study.

The successful scholarship recipient will also be provided with the opportunity to steward at the Sydney Royal Cheese and Dairy Produce Show as well as attend the National Cheese and Dairy Judges Accreditation Course to be held in 2013. “Stewarding at the Cheese and Dairy Produce Show will not only provide a rare insight into the judging of dairy products from across the country, the recipient will also be able to network with leading cheese makers, dairy manufacturers and technologists, food media, retailers and chefs from Australia,” said Mr Andersen.

Applicants simply need to fill in the online application form found at http://www.rasf.org.au explaining why they are passionate about the NSW dairy produce Industry and how they want to play a part in its future.

Applications close 30 November and the Scholarship will be awarded in February 2013.